Reaching for the Moon

About This Movie

Reaching for the Moon is quite the curiosity from 1917. It dives into the life of a button factory worker who's convinced he's destined for greatness, which is a theme that resonates even today. The plot twists into fairy tale territory when he learns he’s the heir to a European kingdom, leading to a mix of adventure and underlying tension as sinister forces conspire against him. The practical effects, though rudimentary by today’s standards, have their own charm, especially in the context of early cinema. Performances are earnest, and there's a certain atmospheric quality that envelopes the narrative, creating an engaging experience. It’s refreshing to see such ambition in silent films, and it definitely marks a distinct voice in adventure storytelling of its time.

Reaching for the Moon is somewhat of a rarity in silent film collections, with few surviving prints making it a notable find for enthusiasts. Its adventure themes combined with early cinematic techniques reflect a transitional period in filmmaking. While not widely discussed, it sparks interest among collectors for its unique narrative and the glimpse it provides into the aspirations of early 20th-century cinema.