Headin' South (1918)

Headin' South Poster

A lost film. As described in a film magazine Exhibitors Herald on March 16, 1918: "a forest ranger known only as Headin' South (Fairbanks) goes forth in search of Spanish Joe (Campeau), a Mexican responsible for most of the treachery and outlawry along the U.S.-Mexican boarder. Headin' South gains quite a reputation as he goes along and finally believes himself worthy of joining Joe's band. in a whirlwind finish in which Joe is captured, Headin' South meets one of Joe's near victims (MacDonald) and falls in love with her."

Intro
"Headin' South" is a silent film produced in the United States in 1918, directed by Allan Dwan and considerable for its starring star, Douglas Fairbanks. This classic Western funny is based upon the adventure love, "Headin' South", about an infamous outlaw attempting to get his redemption however dealing with a number of obstacles along the method.

Plot Overview
The film storyline follows a well-known criminal, appropriately called Headin' South, represented by Fairbanks, who's on the run from the authorities. With his outstanding ability to charm and his clever deceit, he handles to avert capture throughout the movie, while he makes his way south. The screenplay showcases the character's wits, beauty, and outstanding physical prowess à la Fairbanks.

Headin' South becomes interested in saving a young woman named Kathlyn Williams, who has been kidnapped by an ominous Mexican outlaw. The devil-may-care criminal develops into a hero, who decides to assist her and sets his sights on a mission to save her from the clutches of the villain.

Cast and Production
The cast includes popular actors like Frank Campeau as Pedro Lopez, the atrocious outlaw leader, and Katherine MacDonald, who plays the role of the stunning damsel in distress, Josephine. Other notable actors include noteworthy quiet film era actors like Marjorie Daw, Sam De Grasse, and Albert MacQuarrie.

The movie is directed by Allan Dwan, a respected Canadian-American director and manufacturer of his time, widely known for his work in quiet cinema. Produced under the banner of Famous Players-Lasky Corporation, "Headin' South" functions as an exceptional example of Dwan's exemplary work.

Vital Reception and Legacy
At the release, the film was consulted with a lukewarm reaction due to its lack of sound and basic technicolor. Nevertheless, over the years, "Headin' South" has actually gained gratitude and acknowledgment for its cinematography, storytelling, and the performances of its lead actors, specifically Fairbanks who added charm and wit to his character in a manner that remained memorable over the past century.

"Headin' South" is kept in mind for the charismatic efficiency of Fairbanks, who showcased dexterity, wits, and appeal-- all attractive qualities that he's popular for in his career. This film represents a classic western-type comedy, which went on to end up being a popular category of American movie.

Conclusion
The 1918 production of "Headin' South" stands as a noteworthy work both for its forecast of the Western funny category and for hosting the talents of Douglas Fairbanks, who transformed the character of a criminal into a lovely hero. In spite of facing an at first lukewarm action, this movie eventually marks a substantial entry into the record of early 20th century movie theater, providing a testament to the enduring appeal of human bravery, wit, and beauty depicted on the silver screen. The movie remains a prominent piece of cinematic heritage and a crucial stepping stone in Fairbanks' illustrious career.

Top Cast

  • Douglas Fairbanks (small)
    Douglas Fairbanks
    Headin' South
  • Frank Campeau (small)
    Frank Campeau
    Spanish Joe
  • Katherine MacDonald (small)
    Katherine MacDonald
    The Girl
  • Hoot Gibson (small)
    Hoot Gibson
  • Jim Mason (small)
    Jim Mason
    His Aide (as James Mason)
  • Johnny Judd
  • Tom Grimes
  • Art Acord (small)
    Art Acord
  • Edward Burns
    (as Ed Burns)
  • Jack Holt (small)
    Jack Holt
  • Marjorie Daw (small)
    Marjorie Daw