Hindle Wakes
Director: Maurice Elvey
Year Released: 1927
Rating: 2.0
While on holiday, a fiercely independent young woman and a potential suitor sneak away from the pack for a little 'side action' (it's shown as being innocent, but everyone 'assumes' there's sex involved), drawing hysterical reactions from their respective families. Though of merit as an early feminist statement, arguing for a woman's right to do what she wants with whom she wants (without fear of reprisal by Mom, Dad or Society), that's its only function: to draw ire in the presumably enlightened viewer. Aside from this one-dimensionality, as drama it's a little too ponderous, but at least the camerawork is innovative.
