The Patsy

The Patsy, directed by King Vidor and released in 1928, is a silent black-and-white film that stars Marion Davies, Orville Caldwell, and Marie Dressler. A film that combines delightful humor with rich insights into the social mores of the Jazz Age, The Patsy showcases the immense talent of Marion Davies, proving beyond doubt her status as an accomplished actress and comedienne.

Davies plays the charming and endearing character of Patricia 'Pat' Harrington, a bashful, younger daughter of a middle-class family who lives under the shadows of her more sophisticated elder sister, Grace, depicted on screen by Jane Winton. The domineering and somewhat self-centered mother, played by Marie Dressler, visibly dotes on Grace, relegating Pat to a rather inconsequential role within their household. A happy-go-lucky Pat, despite this undeserved negligence, exudes an inexplicable warmth, vivaciousness, and towering resilience, through her upbeat demeanor and infectious smile.

When it comes to Grace being the preferred sibling, Orville Caldwell as Tony Anderson unwittingly contributes by focusing his romantic interest towards Grace. However, Pat harbors deep-seated affection for Tony, a fact unbeknownst to him. Unfolding from this is a tangled web of emotional undertones and unexpressed feelings, enriched by the novice touch of silent era filmmaking.

Throughout this narrative, the viewers are treated to a series of comedic as well as dramatic moments that underline the social conventions and expectations of the 1920s. Acting as a silent film that is steeped in the subtleness of expressions and motions, The Patsy eloquently brings out Pat's attempts to seek her individuality and place within a home where she is often treated as an afterthought. However, Pat's journey is far from a melancholic portrayal of her struggles. The storyline imbued with Davies' comic brilliance that punctuates the film with refreshing fits of laughter and sanguinity, making Pat's journey a journey that's enchanting to follow and cheer on.

Marion Davies’ skill and versatility truly shine in The Patsy. Her acting prowess is delightfully evident as she switches with remarkable ease from naivety to uproarious comedy, and her ability to impersonate well-known actresses of her time, such as Mae Murray, Lillian Gish, and Pola Negri, is played out captivatingly throughout the film, adding a unique flair to her performance. This film indubitably ranks as one of Davies’ best film deliveries, exhibiting her knack for comedy, especially in the pantomime scenes, while also spotlighting her talents as a serious and compelling actress.

Other performances, such as Marie Dressler's portrayal of the biased mother and Orville Caldwell as Tony Anderson, are equally compelling. Dressler tactfully navigates her character's favoritism and eccentricities, inducing both vexation and laughter, while Caldwell provides a constant pillar of support and intrigue to both sisters' lives. His portrayal of an affable and compassionate young man who is oblivious of Pat's affection marks a balance between the comedienne Davies and the more dramatic Dressler.

King Vidor, the director, stamps the film with his artistic touch, adeptly juxtaposing the humour and drama to portray a universal class story that resonates with many. He brilliantly subtly injects elements of class distinction, romance, and family dynamics into this silent film, substantiating it beyond mere entertainment.

On a technical note, The Patsy showcases the efficiency of silent filmmaking. The silent nature of the movie allows for a special emphasis on the visuals - the elegance of the costumes, the art deco inspired sets, the nuanced facial expressions, and the carefully crafted gestures which enrich the story impeccably. It is built upon a foundation of visual storytelling that provokes laughter, empathy, and admiration, reminding viewers of the essence and charm of simplicity in early cinematic tales.

In conclusion, The Patsy is a charming tale of love and sibling rivalry set against the fascinating backdrop of the Roaring Twenties. Above all, it’s a celebration of Marion Davies’ talent and versatility as an actress. Whether you're a silent film aficionado or new to the genre, The Patsy promises an engaging watch, a journey back in time filled with hearty laughter, underlying drama, and an enduring charm.