Have said more than once about holding a lot of silent films in very high regard and it was that that was my main reason for watching 'Lonesome', as well as it popping up as a recommendation here. The story also appealed to me, it may be old-fashioned but it sounded really charming too and it is the sort of film that really charms and tugs at the heartstrings when executed well. Had little doubt that 'Lonesome' would be good.
And it was good. More than good, make that great. 'Lonesome' (lovely title isn't it) is not quite one of my favourite silent films but, made during a very late period for silent films when cinema was starting to transition to sound, it is one of the best late silent films and one of the last great ones. Am very glad that there are others that loved 'Lonesome' as well, don't have much to add to what has already been said, and it is a shame that it isn't better known or appreciated more.
Do agree that the sound sequences were unneccessary and the sequences didn't seem as professional or as polished somehow as a result of inexperience in this still in infancy medium.
Likewise with that the twist attempt was very last minute feeling and felt thrown in.
Otherwise, 'Lonesome' is great. It is beautifully made for one thing, very sumptuously costumed and even better is the stylish photography that is like looking at professional level photographs without being too artsy or limited. The film is written too with sincerity and with an immense likeability and good-natured factor, nothing feeling corny or over-sentimentalised. The direction is accommodating while not allowing the film to drag.
Even if the story is a bit old-fashioned, its twinkling charm, poignancy and warm heart, as well as the crisp pace, more than makes up for that and makes that completely insignificant. The two leads' chemistry is incredibly sweet and touching and not in a sugary way. As well as difficult to resist, their affection comes through loud and clear. Glynn Tryon is an appealing male lead, and even better is Barbara Kent's nuanced turn.
In summary, great. 9/10.
And it was good. More than good, make that great. 'Lonesome' (lovely title isn't it) is not quite one of my favourite silent films but, made during a very late period for silent films when cinema was starting to transition to sound, it is one of the best late silent films and one of the last great ones. Am very glad that there are others that loved 'Lonesome' as well, don't have much to add to what has already been said, and it is a shame that it isn't better known or appreciated more.
Do agree that the sound sequences were unneccessary and the sequences didn't seem as professional or as polished somehow as a result of inexperience in this still in infancy medium.
Likewise with that the twist attempt was very last minute feeling and felt thrown in.
Otherwise, 'Lonesome' is great. It is beautifully made for one thing, very sumptuously costumed and even better is the stylish photography that is like looking at professional level photographs without being too artsy or limited. The film is written too with sincerity and with an immense likeability and good-natured factor, nothing feeling corny or over-sentimentalised. The direction is accommodating while not allowing the film to drag.
Even if the story is a bit old-fashioned, its twinkling charm, poignancy and warm heart, as well as the crisp pace, more than makes up for that and makes that completely insignificant. The two leads' chemistry is incredibly sweet and touching and not in a sugary way. As well as difficult to resist, their affection comes through loud and clear. Glynn Tryon is an appealing male lead, and even better is Barbara Kent's nuanced turn.
In summary, great. 9/10.