Film vs Film
Select two cult films to compare side by side.
The Third Kiss Synopsis
Missy, the heiress to her uncle's fortune, resolves to make atonement for the innocent lives lost when her uncle's box factory burns down because of his criminal carelessness. After her uncle dies, Missy disguises herself as an employee of the new factory and does settlement work where she meets Rupert Bawlf and his wife Cynthia. Rupert's friends Oliver Cloyne and Dr. Paton observe Rupert's infatuation with Missy and tell her that Rupert is the subject of gossip in society circles. Cloyne persuades Missy to wed him and avert scandal for the Bawlfs, and promises to divorce her later. After the honeymoon, Cloyne discovers Missy is an heiress. He kisses her twice and declares that if he kisses her a third time it will mean that he plans to keep her. Rupert is rejected by Missy and repents. Cloyne rescues Missy from a fire and gives her a third kiss that signifies their mutual love.
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 Third Kiss" holds a slight edge in general audience appreciation, but "The Luring Lights" offers its own unique cult appeal.
Suggested Watch:
The Third Kiss