Film vs Film
Select two cult films to compare side by side.
Smashing the Plot Synopsis
Jennie, maid of all work in the home of a railroad president, hears the strains of her sweetheart's hand organ outside her window. Tony sends her a note beseeching her to go to a "wop" dance that afternoon, entrusting the note to the monkey, who promptly delivers it to Mr. Barker and his wife who are sitting on the lawn. The note is finally delivered to Jennie and that afternoon they hie themselves to the dance. Here Tony is given a "high sign" by a fierce looking "wop" informing him that his presence is desired at a meeting of the secret society in the basement. He rushes off and Jennie follows and from an adjoining rooms overhears them draw lots to see who shall blow up the railroad bridge that afternoon as President Barker passes over it. Tony feels highly honored when he draws the lucky number, but Jennie, hearing that Tony was "framed," springs a trap in the floor and down go several of the "wops." She tries to escape but is captured and made a member of the secret society. She is instructed to blow up Mr. Barker's home, but instead mounts a horse and gallops after Tony who has found a hand car on the track. Then follows an exciting chase, the "wops" having mysteriously appeared on the scene in a carriage. Jennie, seeing they are gaining on her, throws her bomb and blows up the carriage. Mounted police are called out and take up the chase in a patrol, while the "wops" continue on to the bridge in a row boat. Jennie arrives just in time to flag the train and taking the infernal machine from Tony throws it into the boatload of "wops," incidentally pushing Tony off the bridge. She dives over after him and drags him ashore and tells him that blowing up railroad presidents is a "bum job." Moving Picture World, January 5, 1918
Fides Synopsis
What is the true power of prayer? This doc examines the impact of speaking to God, from medical and scientific sources, to testimonials from those who've been touched by faith.
"Smashing the Plot" holds a slight edge in general audience appreciation, but "Fides" offers its own unique cult appeal.
Suggested Watch:
Smashing the Plot