Film Overview"An American Citizen" is a 1914 quiet comedy-drama movie directed by J. Searle Dawley and Winthrop Kelley. This quiet era movie was produced by Famous Players Film Company and starred John Barrymore and Sidney Drew. The plot follows the experiences of lead character John Barrymore as Berresford Cruger, a rich bachelor who plans to travel to Europe to discover a spouse.
Story SummaryIn "An American Citizen", Berresford Cruger (John Barrymore), a wealthy New Yorker, is interacting socially one night when he stumbles upon a political conference. Interested by a particular participant, Kathryn Hisster (Sidney Drew), he becomes an unintentional candidate for NY Assembly due to a misconception. Despite the mild mix-up, his popularity grows rapidly, and he winds up winning the election.
While in the thick of things, Berresford succumbs to Kathryn. Regrettably, his newfound political career shows to be a barrier to their romance. Any occasion or discussion they have is uncomfortable due to the political differences they have. Desperate to win Kathryn's heart, Berresford makes a drastic relocation: he freely states that he will not look for re-election. When his term concludes, he renounces his American citizenship and prepares to move to Europe to find a better half.
Plot DevelopmentBerresford's journey takes a twist in Europe. Once in Greece, Berresford discovers himself in another political debacle. He's elected as the Mayor of Algiers by residents who error him for another American politician. Meanwhile, Kathryn, who has followed him to Europe, poses as a maid in order to stay close to Berresford. Her disguise continues till Berresford is blown away by a mysterious lady (who is Kathryn in disguise). He proposes marriage to her, not understanding her real identity. The love-struck bachelor is in for a surprise when he discovers that his newfound love is Kathryn, the lady he 'd left behind in America.
Ending and ConclusionsThe movie concludes on a joyful note. In a surprising turn of events, Berresford is pardoned by the American President and restores his American citizenship. He finally weds Kathryn, and the pair go back to their homeland as American residents.
Total Impact and Legacy"An American Citizen" is a traditional example of the quiet movie period's comedies, providing a portrayal of political life with a twist of love. The comical mix-ups, the dramatic disguises, and John Barrymore's suave portrayal of Berresford Cruger made this film a delightful watching. It embodies the light-hearted spirit of silent films, with an abundant plot full of love, confusion, and many twists and turns. The movie stays especially notable for its star, John Barrymore, who would later increase to become one of the most respected and prominent stars in Hollywood's history. "An American Citizen" provided audiences a delightful peak into the funny and intricacy of political life, love, and citizenship in the early 20th century.
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