Film vs Film
Select two cult films to compare side by side.
The Home Town Girl Synopsis
A young bank clerk wants to marry her, but Nell Fanshawe decides that soda clerk John Stanley is the one for her. Because John does not have enough money to marry, however, Nell encourages him to go to New York, where he becomes a successful antique salesman for Jellaby and Co. Steve Ratling, a vindictive discharged salesman, convinces John to gamble the $300 he took in on a large sale, because he didn't get a deserved raise. After John loses the money, he disappears, leaving a note to Jellaby saying that his pocket was picked, but that he will repay the money. When detectives visit Nell, she goes to New York, works for Jellaby, and searches for John at soda fountains throughout the city. After she catches stenographer Nan Powderly opening a letter from John with $20 enclosed, Nell traces him. Although she is disappointed to learn that he lost the money gambling, after John confesses, both Nell and Jellaby give him another chance.
The Luring Lights Synopsis
Anna, who lives with her harsh-tempered aunt, eagerly seizes the opportunity to join a traveling repertoire company. The girl and Darnton, the "villain" in the company, become deeply interested in each other, and because of Anna Darnton conquers his terrible craving for liquor. Later, when the troupe disbands in New York, Anna meets Rita. The girl makes the acquaintance of Marbridge, an agent of the worst type, and only her wit saves her from the man's clutches. Following a quarrel with Darnton, Anna foolishly consents to go autoing with Rita and the fast set with which the latter associates. The auto hurtles over an embankment and Anna alone escapes death. A reconciliation with Darnton follows. Anna obtains a position in the company in which Darnton plays the villain. The girl receives her great opportunity when the star, whom she is understudying, is injured on the opening night. Enwright, the manager, learns of the love between the new star and Darnton. Fearing lest sentiment affect their work, he sends Darnton to head the Chicago company. But the separation depresses Anna so greatly that Enwright orders Darnton to return. The player comes back unknown to Anna and suddenly appears before her at the next performance. The ensuing scene thrills the audience, which never for a moment suspects that the heroine and the villain are secret lovers. But the moment the curtain has descended Anna walks into Darnton's arms. Her lips meet his.
"The Home Town Girl" holds a slight edge in general audience appreciation, but "The Luring Lights" offers its own unique cult appeal.
Suggested Watch:
The Home Town Girl