Film vs Film
Select two cult films to compare side by side.
The Writing on the Wall Synopsis
Irving Lawrence, prominent and wealthy, owns a large number of tenements in the poor section of the city which are among the city's most objectionable dwelling places. His wife, Barbara, and his brother. Schuyler, are interested in social uplift, but are unable to secure Irving's co-operation for the betterment of conditions. Irving's disregard for others and his blind selfishness are also displayed in his daily life and affairs with other women. When Payne, Barbara's brother, arrives with his bride Muriel, it evolves, after a painful meeting, that Muriel is one of the victims of Irving's disregard for others, in the past. Realizing Muriel will keep the past a secret from her adoring husband, at all costs, Irving torments the girl unmercifully. Barbara, meanwhile, has learned that her husband's mode of living is not all it should be, and misunderstanding a situation between Irving and Muriel, openly accuses them. Then the truth comes out and Muriel proves her innocence in the past. Irving, enraged, trumps up a countercharge of scandal between Barbara and Schuyler. An estrangement at once follows between all concerned. At this time a terrible fire breaks out in Irving's tenements, in which Barbara is holding a party for the slum children, which little Harry is attending. All rush to the scene, and in his mad attempt to rescue Harry Irving needlessly sacrifices his life, for the boy had already been carried out in safety. His death is a just atonement for the lives lost when his rusty old fire escapes crumpled up under the weight of the mad rush of tenants and crashed to the ground. Barbara effects a reunion between Payne and Muriel, and a brighter future seems in store for herself and Schuyler.
Love's Law Synopsis
Innocent, after being cast off by her wealthy uncle, wanders into the forest and is found by Andre, the guiding force of a roving band. The man takes her prisoner against her will, but she is liberated by Rosella, who loves Andre herself. In escaping, Innocent meets Standish Driscoll, son of her wealthy uncle, who immediately falls in love with her. But Andre overtakes her and brings her back to the camp. It is there that she gives the first evidence of her marvelous dancing abilities. Another escape brings Innocent to the city. There she cultivates her talents and soon, under the name of Moner Moyer, she achieves fame. Standish Driscoll still loves her and wants to marry her, but the girl finally realizes that she loves the big gypsy of the forests. So she forsakes her career and returns to the hills.
"The Writing on the Wall" holds a slight edge in general audience appreciation, but "Love's Law" offers its own unique cult appeal.
Suggested Watch:
The Writing on the Wall