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 Moment Before Synopsis
One moment before she dies, the aged, philanthropic, and universally respected Duchess of Maldon sees her life flash before her. As Madge, a young gypsy woman, two men fight for her, after which the winner, John, forces her to marry him. Then Madge deserts John and begins a romance in England with Harold, the youngest son of the Duke of Maldon. Soon, however, Harold fights with his older brother, who has criticized the affair with a married woman, and, believing that he has killed his brother, Harold leaves Madge behind and smuggles himself out of the country. Years later, Harold, who has found out that his brother did not die, meets Madge once again, and, determined not to let him leave her a second time, Madge kills John so that she and Harold can marry. Successfully covering up past scandals, Madge and Harold begin a life so sedate and distinguished that they quickly become England's model couple.
"The Home Town Girl" holds a slight edge in general audience appreciation, but "The Moment Before" offers its own unique cult appeal.
Suggested Watch:
The Home Town Girl