The common descriptor of silent films as "simpler entertainment for a simpler time" is certainly quite apt in no few instances, for some titles more than others. In regularly depicting olden values, and a culture of a time well removed from what modern viewers know, pictures of the era can often feel as fanciful as high fantasy, and the standards that would decree a gentler brand of humor (and, not infrequently, a gentler variety of drama) kind of reinforce that notion. Yet even if a movie like 'Wine of youth' is more likely to inspire soft smiles rather than hearty laughter, the entertainment is warm and consistent, and the length may even have some sly wisdom to impart. As this feature specifically plays with the similarities and differences between generations, the relationships between parents and children, and dynamics between men and women over time - and above all the constancy of the "brazen," "risky" behavior of "impetuous" youth - it stands primed to hold interest and relevance even for the most stubborn twenty-first century audiences. And truthfully, it's even smarter and more enjoyable that it might seem from the outside looking in. This is a delight!
Make no mistake, iconic filmmaker King Vidor's 1924 comedy-drama still reflects in some measure values and a culture that are distinctly "old-fashioned" when standing next to the comparatively liberated society of almost 100 years later. Yet just as Carey Wilson adapted Rachel Crothers' play for release in the Roaring Twenties, it would take little for the same concept to be updated for subsequent decades. Similarly, though techniques and technology of the film industry have advanced over time there's nevertheless much to admire here, and it's very easy to appreciate the craftsmanship for exactly what it is. The scene writing and overall narrative alike are penned with a mind for equal parts fun and heart, and we get plenty of both as the picture more or less centers itself around protagonist Mary as she chooses for herself between two suitors. I surely can't speak to Crothers' stage play, but Wilson's screenplay is a joy, shaped with wonderful, abundant wit and intelligence to help it hold up so marvelously well even after all this time. If anything, this is much more shrewd and merry than I could have expected, and it provides ample amusement throughout.
It's definitely well made, too, with every last facet being plainly terrific. The sets, costume design, hair, and makeup are all lovely, and very easy on the eyes. The editing and cinematography show themselves to be unexpectedly keen at some points as they help to give form to the whole, and Vidor's direction is terrific in orchestrating every shot and scene to achieve the maximum desired effect. In fairness, his job is undoubtedly made easier by such a splendidly strong cast; while chief star Eleanor Boardman is especially charming, frankly everyone else in front of the camera is just as dandy. The acting is marked by hearty personality and giddy spirit across the board, not to mention fine illustration of the players' range and nuance even within the bounds of such levity, and the cast alone do much to make 'Wine of youth' the fabulously good time that it is. Stir all these elements together with Wilson's sharp, mirthful writing, and when all is said and done I have a hard time imagining anyone not walking away from this feature having enjoyed themselves. The storytelling and humor may be modest and restrained relative to what followed in all the subsequent years, but that doesn't truly diminish the high quality of the viewing experience.
If there's any earnest criticism to be made, it's that the last one or two reels swerve a tiny bit toward affirming after all those very same values that it initially set out to let crumble in their decrepitude. Yet it remains true that Wilson's writing is so sage and adept that even this subjective fault, a stumbling block that has hamstrung many other titles, is somewhat subverted and in the very least comes off substantially better than it has anywhere else that comes to mind. Even at a juncture like this the film proves itself to be uncannily clever and rather forward-thinking, further demonstrating the lofty stature it can boast compared to many of its contemporaries. With all this having been said, I can understand why some folks have difficulty engaging with older movies, but at length I think 'Wine of youth' carries a strength in every capacity that allows it to stand out and above the crowd. I still don't know if I'd say it's an outright must-see, but suffice to say that if one is receptive to the silent era and all the best, enduring worth it still holds, this is a classic that absolutely continues to be deserving of recognition on its own merits. If you have the chance to watch, I'm happy to give it my very high recommendation!
Make no mistake, iconic filmmaker King Vidor's 1924 comedy-drama still reflects in some measure values and a culture that are distinctly "old-fashioned" when standing next to the comparatively liberated society of almost 100 years later. Yet just as Carey Wilson adapted Rachel Crothers' play for release in the Roaring Twenties, it would take little for the same concept to be updated for subsequent decades. Similarly, though techniques and technology of the film industry have advanced over time there's nevertheless much to admire here, and it's very easy to appreciate the craftsmanship for exactly what it is. The scene writing and overall narrative alike are penned with a mind for equal parts fun and heart, and we get plenty of both as the picture more or less centers itself around protagonist Mary as she chooses for herself between two suitors. I surely can't speak to Crothers' stage play, but Wilson's screenplay is a joy, shaped with wonderful, abundant wit and intelligence to help it hold up so marvelously well even after all this time. If anything, this is much more shrewd and merry than I could have expected, and it provides ample amusement throughout.
It's definitely well made, too, with every last facet being plainly terrific. The sets, costume design, hair, and makeup are all lovely, and very easy on the eyes. The editing and cinematography show themselves to be unexpectedly keen at some points as they help to give form to the whole, and Vidor's direction is terrific in orchestrating every shot and scene to achieve the maximum desired effect. In fairness, his job is undoubtedly made easier by such a splendidly strong cast; while chief star Eleanor Boardman is especially charming, frankly everyone else in front of the camera is just as dandy. The acting is marked by hearty personality and giddy spirit across the board, not to mention fine illustration of the players' range and nuance even within the bounds of such levity, and the cast alone do much to make 'Wine of youth' the fabulously good time that it is. Stir all these elements together with Wilson's sharp, mirthful writing, and when all is said and done I have a hard time imagining anyone not walking away from this feature having enjoyed themselves. The storytelling and humor may be modest and restrained relative to what followed in all the subsequent years, but that doesn't truly diminish the high quality of the viewing experience.
If there's any earnest criticism to be made, it's that the last one or two reels swerve a tiny bit toward affirming after all those very same values that it initially set out to let crumble in their decrepitude. Yet it remains true that Wilson's writing is so sage and adept that even this subjective fault, a stumbling block that has hamstrung many other titles, is somewhat subverted and in the very least comes off substantially better than it has anywhere else that comes to mind. Even at a juncture like this the film proves itself to be uncannily clever and rather forward-thinking, further demonstrating the lofty stature it can boast compared to many of its contemporaries. With all this having been said, I can understand why some folks have difficulty engaging with older movies, but at length I think 'Wine of youth' carries a strength in every capacity that allows it to stand out and above the crowd. I still don't know if I'd say it's an outright must-see, but suffice to say that if one is receptive to the silent era and all the best, enduring worth it still holds, this is a classic that absolutely continues to be deserving of recognition on its own merits. If you have the chance to watch, I'm happy to give it my very high recommendation!