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Cult Review
Senior Film Conservator
Okay, so Children of the Ritz is definitely one for the silent film buffs, or maybe even if you’re just dipping your toes into that era. If you appreciate a simple, charming story about class clashes and a bit of romantic drama, you’ll probably dig it. But if you absolutely need fast pacing and modern dialogue, you might find yourself a little bored. It’s a specific taste, for sure. 🎬
The premise here is pretty classic stuff for the late 1920s: a spoiled rich girl named Anne, played by Kathryn McGuire, gets hit with a dose of reality when her family suddenly loses everything. Meanwhile, her chauffeur, Jerry (Lee Moran), is just trying to get by. Then, in a twist that only movies really pull off, Jerry wins a whopping $50,000 at the racetrack. Talk about a glow-up! 🏇
What I really noticed was McGuire’s performance as Anne. Her initial arrogance, then that almost imperceptible flicker of panic when her dad drops the bomb about their financial ruin. It’s subtle for a silent film, which I actually quite liked. You can almost feel the movie trying to convince you this moment matters, and with McGuire, it kinda does. She has this particular way of carrying herself, almost regal, even when she’s supposed to be 'poor.'
Lee Moran as Jerry is pretty understated at first. He just seems like a regular guy doing his job. His shift from shy chauffeur to a man with some coin in his pocket is interesting to watch. He doesn’t suddenly become arrogant, which is refreshing. More like a quiet confidence grows in him.
The whole losing-money bit feels pretty abrupt. One minute Anne’s throwing these lavish parties, next, *poof*, they’re broke. It’s a cinematic shorthand, I guess, but it makes you chuckle a bit at how quickly fortunes could change in these stories.
Once they tie the knot, that’s where the real trouble begins. Anne, bless her heart, just can’t stop spending. It’s not just a little shopping spree here and there; it’s like she fundamentally doesn’t understand the concept of a budget. There’s a scene where she buys a truly extravagant hat, and you just see Jerry’s face drop a little. That small moment spoke volumes more than any title card could have.
The film doesn’t always dwell on Jerry’s emotional struggle as much as you’d expect. It’s more about the *actions* of her spending, the mounting bills. You can almost feel the movie trying to convince you this moment matters, and with her reckless spending, it does.
The crowd scenes during the racetrack sequence have this oddly empty feeling, like half the extras wandered off. It’s not a huge deal, but it stood out. Still, the tension builds pretty well there.
One reaction shot of Anne lingering so long it almost becomes funny when she’s trying to adjust to not having servants. Like, really, *that* long? It’s a bit much, but charming in its own way for the era. She’s trying so hard to seem put-together. 😂
The movie gets noticeably better once it really leans into the marital squabbles. The drama of their differing views on money is the strongest part. It’s a universal theme, even if the execution is pure 1929.
Overall, Children of the Ritz is a perfectly fine silent romantic comedy. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it’s a sweet, simple story with some decent performances. It’s not going to blow your mind, but it’s a nice way to spend an hour or so if you’re in the mood for some old-school charm. Definitely not for everyone, but those who 'get it' will enjoy it. Maybe grab some popcorn and pretend you’re in a bustling movie palace. 🍿
IMDb —
1924
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