Tipped Off (1920)

Ranchmen try to play a joke on one of their associates by signing his name to a letter addressed to Sarah Smith, who has advertised in a matrimonial journal. A mix-up occurs on the day of the arrival of the lady when a younger woman, sent to buy stock, also appears on the scene and is mistaken for the prospective bride.

Summary
"Tipped Off" is an American quiet comedy-drama movie from 1920, directed by Jerome Storm and produced by Thomas H. Ince. The movie provided a fascinating perspective on the themes of love, friendship, loyalty, and the quest to succeed in the world. The primary cast consists of Charles Ray, Otto Hoffman, and John Gilbert.

Plot
The movie opens with a matchless mix of comedy and drama as it introduces Joe Magee (played by Charles Ray), a provincial shipping clerk who dreams of living a life of high-end in the city. He enjoys his simple life, yet desires something larger. Joe's life deviates when he receives a suggestion about a horse race from a good friend, Cheery Charley (Otto Hoffman). The idea's appealing capacities force Joe to stake all his savings on the race.

Threat and Result
Identified, Joe sells everything he owns and obtains some extra funds to put his bet. The horse, nevertheless, does not win the race, and Joe is left destitute. This regrettable incident leads to Joe transferring to the city, hoping to start afresh. His durable spirit helps him secure a job as a taxicab driver.

Mystical Passenger and Events
One day, a lovely traveler rides in Joe's taxicab; she is none other than the spectacular Mary Willard (played by Doris May). Unbeknown to him, Mary is a prominent theater actress. As Joe's luck would have it, an unforeseen circumstance involving Mary and a breakthrough role alters his fate completely.

Twist of Fate
Mary asks Joe to deliver a script to the theater manufacturer's workplace. Nevertheless, due to a mix-up, the manufacturer unsuspectingly believes Joe is the lead performer. Seeing this as an opportunity, Joe chooses to get what fate presents him and impresses everyone with a remarkable performance.

Love and Success
Joe's sudden fame generates blended sensations in Mary; she feels both adoration and envy. Amid the newly found fame and fortune, Joe does not lose sight of his love for her. He pours his heart out to her, a move that Mary reciprocates, culminating in a wholehearted declaration of their love for each other.

Significance
"Tipped Off" encapsulates the essence of the traditional 1920s quiet movie era. It blends a mix of easy humor with the traditional trope of the 'rags-to-riches' story, providing an insightful look into the aspirations and challenges of characters looking for better lives. The motion picture masterfully depicts love, strength, luck, and decision through gripping storytelling and commendable acting efficiencies.

Conclusion
Even a century later on, "Tipped Off" leaves a lasting impression on those who value timeless cinema. Its abundant story, captivating efficiencies, and blend of humor and drama provide a vivid testament to the foundation of American movie theater. It acts as a classic tip that even in face of difficulties, one should not lose hope as a single stroke of fortune can turn things around, similar to it provided for Joe Magee.

Top Cast

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    Gertrude Olmstead
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  • Jim Corey (small)
    Jim Corey
    John Carnes
  • Charles Newton
    '100 Proof' Ross - Marion's Father
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    Reverend Sommers