Mary Pickford made some of the best features of her career with the prolific and respected screenwriter Frances Marion, including this first-rate, female-fronted melodrama about two women who fall in love with the same man.

America’s sweetheart - the girl with the curls - demonstrates with this film that Pickford’s acting skills far eclipse the child-like persona with which she is often associated. Her portrayal of the dual roles: beautiful, privileged Stella Maris, and stunted, unattractive orphan Unity Blake, is remarkable by any standards. The film handles some very dark themes (child abuse, domestic abuse, addiction and suicide) but balances these beautifully with genuine light and charm.  

Dir. Marshall Neillan | US | 1918 | N/C PG | 1h 23m

With: Mary Pickford, Conway Tearle, Marcia Manon

Performing live: Meg Morley (piano)

With pre-recorded introduction and online programme notes by Pamela Hutchinson

Screening material courtesy of the Mary Pickford Foundation