They Would Elope (1909)

Introduction to "They Would Elope"
"They Would Elope" is a quiet short film made in 1909, directed by D.W. Griffith. This movie, like many of its time, was produced under the constraints of early movie theater, including an easier story and structure compared to contemporary films. It reflects the design and technical restraints of the quiet era, throughout which filmmakers were exploring the nascent language of movie theater. The story follows the typical style of young love and the desire to escape the control of parental figures.

Plot Summary
The film's story is centered around a young couple that plans to elope due to the disapproval of their relationship by the female's parents. They make a secret pact to run away together and begin a brand-new life free from the limitations imposed upon them by their households.

At the beginning of the movie, we are introduced to the couple revealing their love for each other, but their meeting is disrupted by the girl's disapproving mom. Figured out not to give up on their love, they prepare to elope. The young lover sends a note to his sweetie, outlining the plan for their elopement. She is to disguise herself and escape from her home, and they will meet at a designated area to initiate their escape.

The plot thickens as the young woman's actions do not go unnoticed. Her mom finds the note and finds their plot. Rather of directly facing her daughter, she chooses to teach her a lesson. The mom plots to outsmart the young couple by orchestrating a scheme to amaze them at the minute of their tried elopement.

Climactic Elopement Attempt
In preparation for the escape, the girl disguises herself and handles to sneak away from home unnoticed-- or so she thinks. The stage is set for an amazing climax as the couple's strategy seems coming together. Nevertheless, instead of her daughter, the mother arrives at the meeting point dressed in comparable clothing to her daughter's, successfully tricking the eager suitor into believing that she is his intended bride-to-be.

As the young man excitedly awaits his sweetheart, the mom, in camouflage, approaches him. The mom's strategy prospers as the lover, who is none the better, leads her away, thinking she is the young woman he enjoys. The couple boards a carriage, about to leave on their new life together.

Revelation and Conclusion
The film reaches its peak when the ploy is revealed. When the carriage has traveled a brief range, the mother unveils herself, and the young suitor is stunned to find that he has been outsmarted. The resolution of the movie showcases the mother's admonishment of the would-be groom for his intentions. The girl, still in your home and unaware of the switch, ultimately finds out about what has actually taken place and is most likely both ashamed and relieved.

Reception and Legacy
In the context of early 20th-century movie theater, "They Would Elope" would have been seen as a light comedic piece, supplying home entertainment through a farcical storyline. It's agent of the casual storytelling that was popular during the era when films were short due to technological restrictions. The resolution where parental authority is reasserted over vibrant passion might be viewed as a support of the social norms of the day.

The movie's historic significance lies not just in its narrative but in the technical and stylistic trademarks of Griffith's early work. "They Would Elope" is an exemplar of the filmmaker's growing style, which would later evolve and significantly affect the language of movie theater. It stands as a curious artifact from a bygone age, showing the social mores and filmmaking methods of its time.

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