Male and Female (1919) | Silent Film Classic | Public Domain

Library last generated: 2026-01-08 14:23 LOCAL

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Male and Female (1919) | Silent Film Classic | Public Domain Cast: - Gloria Swanson as Julie Whitcomb - Thomas Meighan as Philip Ridgeway Plot Summary: Male and Female is a 1919 silent drama directed by Cecil B. DeMille, based loosely on J.M. Barrie's play The Admirable Crichton. The story follows the wealthy socialite Julie Whitcomb and her family who find themselves shipwrecked on a deserted island. Stripped of their societal status, the family must adapt to survive in the wild. Philip Ridgeway, their astute butler, rises as the natural leader, challenging the traditional class distinctions between master and servant. The film explores themes of social hierarchy, survival, and the nature of relationships beyond social conventions. Film History: As a product of the silent film era, Male and Female showcases Cecil B. DeMille’s flair for lavish production values and strong storytelling. Gloria Swanson’s powerful performance helped cement her status as a leading star of the silent screen. The film is notable for its commentary on class and human nature, reflecting post-World War I societal shifts. It remains an important artifact of early Hollywood cinema and exemplifies the narrative style and visual techniques of its time. Public Domain Notice: This film was released in 1919 and is now in the public domain. It is freely available for viewing, sharing, and educational use. --- Enjoy watching this timeless silent classic! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more vintage films!