The Critic (1913)
Henry Roberts, a theatrical critic on the Dally Record, one of the largest and most influential newspapers in the country, is a man wholly without principle, using the power his position gives him to further his own interest. One of the persons powerless to combat with his influence, is Helene, a beautiful actress entering upon her career, and whose ambition causes her to endure his attention, she being aware that he can ruin her career if lie so wishes. While attending a reception one evening, she meets Oscar Payne, a rising young poet of great promise, but who is of a reticent disposition and tries to avoid public attention. He is asked to read some of his poems, but consents only at the request of his mother, whom he idolizes and the persuasion of his old teacher, Louis Miles. This gentleman had once been a great dramatist, but at the present time in so greatly reduced circumstances, that he is forced to appeal to Roberts, the critic for financial aid, which is promptly refused. Roberts' jealousy being aroused by the rising fame of the young poet and his attentions to the actress, makes frequent and unjust attacks on the character and poems of his rival, through his influence in the press. The crisis is reached when both men meet at Helene's apartment and a violent quarrel is avoided only by the promise of the young girl to give her hand to the one writing the best comedy, she being confident that Payne will be successful. Payne soon finishes his comedy and, with the assistance of Helene, is enabled to read it for approval to the editors of the paper on which Roberts is critic. The play is highly commended. Roberts, however, is unable even to start his comedy and as a last resort, seeks the aid of the old dramatist. Ignorant of the fact that Louis Miles is Payne's old teacher and friend, he asks him to write his comedy for him. This the dramatist refuses to do and immediately informs Payne of the plot. The information is received at a most opportune time, as the now thoroughly enraged Roberts has determined to ruin the careers of both young people. They, however, devise a plan whereby they hope to outwit their persecutor and win success for themselves. Louis Miles gives the unsuspecting critic the comedy Payne has written, but which he, Roberts, thinks was written for himself. Thus the comedy is produced and is a great success. Roberts appears before the curtain in answer to the call for "Author" and is accepting all the applause. Suddenly Louis Miles jumps on the stage and publicly denounces his deception. Roberts is hissed off, and Payne, the real author, receives great ovation. The last fall of the curtain discloses the actress and the poet in a fond embrace.
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| Filmmakers | Role |
|---|---|
| Febo Mari | Director |
| Arturo Ambrosio | Producer |
| Giovanni Vitrotti | Cinematographer |
| Cast | Role |
|---|---|
| Antonio Grisanti | |
| Febo Mari | |
| Fernanda Negri Pouget | |
| Leo Ragusi |
