The Dictator (1915)

The Dictator Poster

On the lam from the New York Police because of a false murder charge, playboy Brooke Travers escapes to a Central American banana republic.

General Overview
"The Dictator" is a quiet, black and white movie produced in 1915 and directed by Oscar Apfel. The movie's primary character, Beauregard Bennet, is played by Richard Bennett, a distinguished phase actor at the time. "The Dictator" is also Gainesborough Pictures' first production and it mainly occurs in an imaginary Latin American nation named Paragonia.

Plot Summary
The plot of "The Dictator" centers on Beauregard Bennet, an American diplomat stationed in Paragonia. Bennett becomes the nation's dictator after a speedy turn of occasions. However, he is an unskilled however kind-hearted ruler who makes every effort to utilize his newfound power for the greater good of his topics.

In the motion picture, the governmental government of Paragonia performs thoughtless actions and diplomatic snubs against the country's management, which results in disputes. Furthermore, the government makes an attempt to trick the American ambassador, played by Bennett, by changing the existing dictator, General Bumbosco, with an imposter.

Bennet, unknowingly, recognizes the imposter as the real basic, causing the expulsion of the real totalitarian. In the taking place mayhem and political confusion, Bennet finds himself stated as the country's brand-new dictator. Back in America, he was an unsuccessful suitor to a titled lady, and now, as a dictator, he repairs this by making himself a duke.

Character Development
Beauregard Bennet is an interesting character in this movie. In spite of being an unskilled and bumbling ambassador, his kind-hearted and good-hearted nature wins over the person of Paragonia. When offered absolute power, he works towards the improvement of his topics instead of for his own self-interests. The scenarios around his rise to power are comical and demonstrate his naivety; however, his actions as a totalitarian show a various, selfless side of him.

Cinematography and Direction
"The Dictator" is a timeless example of early 20th-century cinema with its quiet, black and white nature. Directed by Oscar Apfel, the motion picture masterfully makes use of the quiet cinematics of the time. Offered the lack of noise, the film relies greatly on meaningful performances from the actors, with Richard Bennett's efficiency as Bennet standing out. The movie also uses title cards to narrate the story and reveal discussions.

Social Impact and Reception
"The Dictator" acquired prestige in its time, largely due to its political satire and commentary on dictatorship. The movie humorously shows the perils of power and the intricacies of political life, especially in the context of little, politically unstable countries.

In conclusion, "The Dictator" from 1915 is a comedic, politically-charged motion picture that combines subtle humor with social commentary. With its innovative storyline and remarkable characters, it shows the amusing side of politics and the naivety of an unskilled ruler. The film remains a sterling example of the silent era's capabilities for intricate storytelling and character development.

Top Cast

  • John Barrymore (small)
    John Barrymore
    Brooke Travers
  • Charlotte Ives
    Lucy Sheridan
  • Ruby Hoffman
    Juanita
  • Ivan F. Simpson (small)
    Ivan F. Simpson
    Simpson
  • Walter Craven
    Gen. Campos
  • Robert Broderick
    Col. Bowie
  • Esther Lyon
    Mrs. Bowie
  • Henry West
    Rev. Bostick (as Harry West)
  • Mario Majeroni
    Gen. Rivas
  • Thomas McGrath
    Duffy