Summary
Private Izzy Murphy is a 1920 silent comedy-drama that follows Isadore 'Izzy' Goldberg, who changes his name to Patrick Murphy to blend in with the Irish community in New York City. His romantic entanglements and military service during World War I intertwine in a series of comedic and dramatic moments. The film culminates in a heartfelt resolution that challenges societal expectations and prejudices of the time. Directed by Frank Borzage, it features Fletcher Tolbert in the lead role and a supporting cast of notable actors. While the film's technical aspects are commendable, its reliance on dated stereotypes and a predictable narrative structure limits its appeal to modern audiences.
Synopsis
Isadore "Izzy" Goldberg changes his name to I. Patrick Murphy because his store is in an Irish-neighborhood in New York City. He meets Eileen Cohannigan, the daughter of a meat-packer, and he tells her he is Irish and a romance begins. When America enters World War I, "Izzy" enlists, is sent to France, and is wounded while engaged in a heroic rescue during a big battle. While recovering in an overseas hospital, he write Eileen and tells her he is Jewish and not Irish. Returning home, he is parading with his regiment and he sees Eileen with Robert O'Malley, his old rival. He thinks she has thrown him over because he is Jewish. An Irish lodge comes to bestow an honor on the man they think is Patrick Murphy, an Irish hero. But O'Malley tells them his real name is Goldberg. But Eileen tels him it is he she loves, and they head for the marriage-license bureau.
