Summary
Matthew Thurlow, a scion of privilege, squanders his nights amidst the glittering decadence of cabarets, his gaze perpetually drawn to Dazie, a magnetic dancer he affectionately dubs "Redhead." Though Dazie harbors a profound affection for Matthew, her heart is heavy with the knowledge of his aimless existence, a life frittered away in the pursuit of fleeting pleasures. In a drunken haze, Matthew, driven by a frivolous wager, impulsively weds Dazie. Yet, far from dismissing the impromptu nuptials, Dazie, with an unexpected resolve, insists upon the legitimacy of their union. This audacious act precipitates a seismic shift in Matthew's gilded reality: his formidable uncle, exasperated by his nephew's profligacy, severs his financial lifeline and revokes his cushy sinecure at the bank. Confronted with Matthew's scorn and indolence, Dazie, an indomitable spirit, embarks on a mission to forge character within her wayward husband. She secures a modest apartment, a stark contrast to his former opulence, while Matthew, humbled and adrift, is compelled to seek gainful employment on the gritty floor of an automotive factory. Despite his outward geniality during a visit from Dazie's unassuming parents, Matthew maintains an emotional distance from his wife. When his uncle, ever the pragmatist, attempts to buy Dazie's acquiescence to a divorce, she steadfastly declines, asserting that her consent would only be granted if Matthew himself genuinely desired the separation. Through the crucible of newfound responsibility and a poignant misunderstanding that ignites the spark of jealousy, Matthew undergoes a profound metamorphosis, discovering a genuine zest for life and, critically, an ardent love for Dazie. His uncle, observing Dazie's transformative influence, ultimately reverses course, threatening Matthew with permanent disinheritance should he dare to dissolve the marriage. In a cathartic moment, Matthew finally articulates the depth of his affection, sealing their improbable bond.
Synopsis
Rich Matthew Thurlow, spends nearly every night at cabarets, admires Dazie, a leading dancer whom he calls "Redhead." Dazie loves Matthew, but she is dismayed that he wastes his life in clubs. After Matthew, while intoxicated, marries Dazie to win a bet, Dazie insists that they remain married. When Matthew's uncle cuts off his allowance and ends his "soft" bank job, Dazie decides to make a man out of Matthew, but he scorns her. She rents a small apartment, while he gets work in an auto factory. Although Matthew is genial when Dazie's parents visit, he remains cold to her. When Matthew's uncle offers Dazie money for a divorce, she refuses, but says that she will agree to a divorce if Matthew really wants one. Matthew develops a new interest in life and realizes he loves Dazie when he becomes jealous through a misunderstanding. After his uncle, seeing Dazie's effect on Matthew, threatens to disinherit him for good if he does divorce her, Matthew confesses his love.
Review Excerpt
"
Stepping back into the flickering glow of the silent era, one occasionally unearths a cinematic gem that, despite its age, resonates with an astonishingly contemporary spirit. "The Redhead" (1919), directed by Charles Maigne and penned by Henry Payson Dowst, is precisely such a discovery. Far from being a mere historical curiosity, this film, starring the magnetic Alice Brady and the dashing Conrad Nagel, delivers a surprisingly potent narrative exploring themes of love, redemption..."
