In 1914, most movies were short--fifteen minutes or less. And as a result, the stories were very simple and the acting sometimes a bit over-done in order to quickly convey emotion or action. In light of this, BY THE SUN'S RAYS is a pretty good but very typical film. By standards of only a decade later, the narrative is amazingly simple and poor, as everything is do obvious in the film. When Lon Chaney (in an early role) appears on screen, by his pantomime it's obvious he's the villain who is sneaking information about a gold shipment to the bandits--there is no suspense at all. And when the hero comes to town to investigate, it's a foregone conclusion that he's catch the rogues and get the girl in the end. In 1914, this was a good solid film that unforatunately today looks terribly dated and obvious. Of interest primarily to film historians and fans of early silent film. All others, watch at your own risk.
Review of By the Sun's Rays
