The Blot
| The Blot | |
|---|---|
 |
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| Directed by |
Phillips Smalley Lois Weber |
| Produced by | Lois Weber David Gill Kevin Brownlow |
| Written by | Lois Weber Marion Orth |
| Starring |
Philip Hubbard Margaret McWade Claire Windsor Louis Calhern Marie Walcamp |
| Cinematography |
Gordon Jennings Philip R. Du Bois |
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Production
company |
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| Distributed by | F.B. Warren Corporation |
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Release date
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Running time
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91 minutes |
| Country | United States |
| Language |
Silent film English intertitles |
The Blot is an American silent drama film directed by Lois Weber with her husband Phillips Smalley in 1921. Weber also co-wrote and produced the film. The film tackles the social problem of genteel poverty, focusing on a struggling family. It stars Philip Hubbard, Margaret McWade, Claire Windsor and Louis Calhern.
Weber filmed in real locations, using as much natural lighting as possible. Scenes were filmed on location around Los Angeles, particularly at the old University of Los Angeles campus, now Los Angeles City College. Many supporting roles were given to non-professionals.
The Blot was restored by Kevin Brownlow and David Gill for British television. Brownlow singles out the film for praise in his book Behind the Mask of Innocence (1990). The Blot, which is currently available on DVD and VHS, was exhibited at the San Francisco Silent Film Festival.
At the end of class, poorly paid college professor Andrew Griggs begs his unruly students to show more appreciation for his efforts to teach them. Among the most disrespectful are a spoiled trio led by Phil West (Louis Calhern), whose father is the school's wealthiest trustee; Bert Gareth, a congressman's son; and Walt Lucas, a 23-year-old who must graduate to receive his inheritance.
Unbeknownst to his friends, Phil's interest has been piqued by the professor's daughter, Amelia (Claire Windsor). He frequently drops by the public library where she works, just to be able to speak to her. She, however, is unimpressed by him and his wealth.
The Griggs' poverty is contrasted with the prosperity of their next-door neighbors. "Foreign-born" shoemaker Hans Olsen is sympathetic to their plight, as is his eldest son Peter (Amelia's secret admirer), but his wife strongly dislikes what she considers Mrs. Griggs' superior airs.
One day, Phil finally manages to persuade Amelia to let him drive her home after work, as it is raining (and her shoe has a hole in it). He is invited inside. Mrs. Griggs, knowing who he is, decides to spend what little she has on some fancy sandwiches, cakes and tea in an attempt to put up a brave front. She is heartbroken to find when she brings them in that Phil has departed and poor Reverend Gates (another of Amelia's admirers) is to be the recipient of her expensive bounty. As a result, Mrs. Griggs is unable to make the mortgage payment on the house.
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