The Old Actor
An elderly actor who lives with his wife and daughter is dismissed from his acting job because he is considered too old. On his way home from the theatre he panics at the thought of telling his family the bad news and decides to disguise himself as a beggar. His daughter's beau accidentally gives him a five dollar gold piece, thinking that it was a smaller coin. A chase ensues with a policeman, the daughter, and her beau in hot pursuit. When caught he is recognized by his shocked daughter, but is quickly forgiven by all. Meanwhile the actor hired to replace him has already been fired and a messenger is dispatched to rehire the Old Actor to the delight of his wife, daughter, and fellow actors.
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📋 Film Details
| Year | 1912 |
| Country | United States of America |
| Genre | Drama |
| Director | D.W. Griffith |
| Runtime | 17 min. |
| Rating | TMDB: 5.4/10 (18 votes) |
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🎬 MovieFinder's Take
This D.W. Griffith short constructs its drama on the clash between theatrical mask and truthful vulnerability, exploring the universal dread of professional obsolescence and familial shame through silent cinema's eloquent physicality. It relies on a simple chase to unveil deeper layers of humiliation and grace.
What lingers after the final reel is a poignant, parable-like warmth—a reminder that redemption often arrives in life's unexpected second acts, where melodramatic coincidence feels like earned poetic justice. — MovieFinder Editorial
Director: D.W. Griffith
Best Watched
For a quiet evening, suited to the expressive grace and detailed pantomime of early silent drama.
🎭 Cast
W. Chrystie Miller
The Old Actor
Kate Bruce
The Old Actor's Wife
Mary Pickford
The Old Actor's Daughter
Edwin August
The Old Actor's Daughter's Sweetheart
Charles Hill Mailes
The Replacement Actor
Alfred Paget
A Policeman
William A. Carroll
The Stage Manager's Assistant
Grace Henderson
An Old Woman
Robert Harron
The Messenger
Christy Cabanne
at audition
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