The Coward is a 1915 American silent historical war drama film directed by Reginald Barker and produced by Thomas H. Ince. Ince also wrote the film's scenario with C. Gardner Sullivan, from a story Ince had bought from writer (and future director) Edward Sloman. The film stars Frank Keenan and Charles Ray.[2] John Gilbert also appears in an uncredited bit part.[3] A copy of The Coward is preserved at the Museum of Modern Art.[4]
The Coward | |
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Directed by | Reginald Barker |
Screenplay by | Thomas H. Ince C. Gardner Sullivan |
Story by | Edward Sloman Thomas H. Ince |
Produced by | Thomas H. Ince |
Starring | Charles Ray Frank Keenan Gertrude Claire Margaret Gibson |
Cinematography | Joseph H. August Robert S. Newhard |
Production companies | Kay-Bee Pictures New York Motion Picture |
Distributed by | Triangle Kay-Bee Enterprise Distributing Corporation (re-release) |
Release date |
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Running time | 77 minutes |
Country | United States |
Languages | Silent English intertitles |
Budget | $17,922[1] |
Set during the American Civil War, Keenan stars as a Virginia colonel, with Charles Ray as his weak-willed son. The son is forced, at gunpoint, by his father to enlist in the Confederate States Army. He is terrified by the war and deserts during a battle. The film focuses on the son's struggle to overcome his cowardice.
The Coward was both a critical and financial success and helped to launch Charles Ray's career.[3]
Unusually at the time, the main character is not presented as a gallant Southerner who is eager to fight in the war.[5]
The acting in this film was much more natural than earlier films, with cutting and camera angles helping the actor's use of facial expressions and pauses to convey dramatic tension.[6]
Films directed by Reginald Barker | |
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