Alimony

About This Movie

Alimony (1917) dives into the murky waters of divorce and alimony with a tone that's both sardonic and revealing. The story centers on Bernice Bristol Flint, a grass widow, whose romantic entanglements with divorce attorneys paint a rather unflattering portrait of how some exploit the system. The pacing leans into drama, with an atmosphere that feels heavy yet oddly captivating, capturing the zeitgeist of early 20th-century attitudes towards marriage and divorce. While the director remains unknown, the performances convey the nuanced struggles of the characters caught in this web of legal and emotional complexities. It's distinctive for its sharp social commentary wrapped in a narrative that feels both contemporary and dated.

Alimony has had a somewhat elusive presence in collector circles, with scarce prints making it a less common find. Many collectors seek it out for its early portrayal of divorce dynamics, which resonates with contemporary discussions. The film's historical significance and its insight into societal attitudes of the time certainly add to its appeal. As for formats, it has seen a few restorations, but original prints remain rare and sought after.