The Call of the Road (1920) Online

One reminds oneself that it is a Silent film and one should look at it with early 20th century eyes; the characters become more interesting and the main character establishes himself and is very likable and strong at the same time. The piano player who plays in the stalls next to the audience, is a very important element as it always was in silent film, so an added orchestral sound would be very important indeed. The film used the other characters in the story to strengthen and establish the main one, who has fallen from grace with his gambling mistakes. It is a gentle fairy tale set a long time ago when language was different and that partly gives it it's quaintness. Strange to see Victor McLaglen, as a fully grown rather handsome young man, who already has signs of his pugilistic abilities. Different from the older, sometimes angry older actor of the late 20th century, but we recognise the smile and the wonderful sense of humour. What a change we have here to a more romantic, younger and gentle actor who was to win an Oscar in 1935 for, "The Informer". This film gives one a happy feeling.