Film vs Film
Select two cult films to compare side by side.
The Scarab Ring Synopsis
Constance Randall learns from her dying father that he has been blackmailed by a cashier in his bank who has knowledge of his part in a crime, and she swears to keep the secret from her younger sister, Muriel. Hugh Martin obtains documentary proof of the crime and threatens to give it to the press unless Constance induces Muriel to marry him. On the day Martin has threatened to reveal the story he is found dead, and a scarab ring, similar to one owned by Constance, is found near the body. She is acquitted of the crime because of insufficient evidence but is later forced to admit to her lover, Ward, that she killed Martin in defense of her honor and has kept the secret. He forgives her, and she accepts his proposal of marriage.
The Beloved Vagabond Synopsis
Brilliant young architect Gaston De Nerac returns to London from France to marry his cousin Joanna Rushworth. To prevent Joanna's father from losing his business, Gaston borrows money from a rival suitor with the stipulation that he postpone the marriage and refrain from communication with Joanna for two years. After the suitor convinces Joanna that Gaston bartered her love for money, she marries the suitor. When Gaston learns of this, he begins a reckless, cynical life as a traveling musician known as Paragot. In the London slums, he makes the acquaintance of Asticot, a ragamuffin. They wander through France and Paragot adopts Blanquette, an itinerant singer, after her aged partner dies. Years later, when the happy threesome perform at a peasant wedding, Paragot encounters Joanna, who has learned the truth. After Joanna's husband is killed in the street, she and Paragot plan to marry, but because he is unable to adjust to societal conventions, Paragot marries Blanquette instead.
"The Scarab Ring" holds a slight edge in general audience appreciation, but "The Beloved Vagabond" offers its own unique cult appeal.
Suggested Watch:
The Scarab Ring