Horatio Manly Jr. (William Haines), the only son of Judge Horatio Manly (David Torrence), is disowned by his father for obstructing firemen during a hotel fire.

Fighting the Flames is a captivating 1920 silent film that delves into the complex narrative of Horatio Manly Jr., whose journey from estrangement to redemption is a testament to t...
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Analysis & IMDb Ratings
Comparing the cinematic DNA and archive impact of two defining moments in cult history.

B. Reeves Eason

Harley Knoles
Knowledge Base
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Fighting the Flames is a classic 1920s silent film that tells the story of Horatio Manly Jr., whose redemption is forged through acts of bravery and heroism. The narrative unfolds with tension as Horatio, estranged by his father for his interference with firemen during a hotel blaze, must prove himself by rescuing Alice Doran and Mickey from a burning building. The film also delves into the dark side of urban life, with the capture of Mickey's cruel father, Big Jim, an escaped convict. This dramatic tale, starring William Haines and Dorothy Devore, explores themes of family, justice, and personal growth amidst the chaos of a bygone era.
Horatio Manly Jr. (William Haines), the only son of Judge Horatio Manly (David Torrence), is disowned by his father for obstructing firemen during a hotel fire. He later redeems himself by rescuing a young woman, Alice Doran (Dorothy Devore) and a street urchin, Mickey (Frankie Darro) from a burning building...and capturing Mickey's wicked father Big Jim (Sheldon Lewis), an escaped convict.
Walter Anthony, Douglas Z. Doty
United States


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Fighting the Flames Review: Horatio Manly Jr. Battles for Redemption