Summary
In the twilight of the silent era, The Broadway Drifter presents a curious transformation of the 'prodigal son' trope. Bob Stafford, the quintessential Jazz Age wastrel, finds himself cast out of his father's industrial empire for a life of aimless indulgence. Stripped of his inheritance and his name, Stafford pivots from socialite to scammer, opening a boutique gymnasium designed to separate wealthy young women from their money under the guise of physical fitness. This venture into the burgeoning health culture of the 1920s introduces him to Eileen, a woman who challenges his cynical worldview. However, the film takes a sharp turn when Bob’s past and his business rivals collide, forcing him to trade his gym clothes for factory overalls in an airplane manufacturing plant. When an accusation of industrial espionage threatens to destroy his burgeoning redemption, Bob must navigate a web of family secrets and corporate sabotage to prove his worth in a world that only values production.
Synopsis
Bob Stafford, the wastrel son of a wealthy businessman, is disowned by his father for his reckless and irresponsible ways. He changes his name and opens a gym for wealthy young girls, hoping to land a rich and pretty wife. He meets and falls for pretty young Eileen, but a rival soon drives him out of the gym business. He gets a job in an airplane factory owned by Eileen's father, who is soon told by a rival that Bob is really out to steal a new airplane invention so he can give it to his father.
