Daybreak (1918)
A silent drama of marriage, secrets, and redemption, directed by Albert Capellani and starring Emily Stevens.
Daybreak - Movie Information
- Original Title: Daybreak
- Release Year: 1918
- Directed by: Albert Capellani
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Runtime: 50m
- Original Language: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): January 7, 1918 (United States)
- Production Companies: Metro Pictures Corporation
- Production Countries: United States of America
Daybreak - Plot
Edith Frome (Stevens) finds it impossible to live with her alcoholic husband Arthur (L'Estrange), and finally leaves him. After three years she returns but leaves each evening, returning late arousing the suspicion of her husband. Having her followed he soon learns that she visits a child. Suspecting the worst because of her friendship with Dr. David Brett (Phillips), he institutes divorce proceedings. Edith confesses the truth about the child and Arthur, realizing his folly, swears off liquor and they are reunited.
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Daybreak - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Albert Capellani
Main Cast
- Emily Stevens
- Augustus Phillips
- Evelyn Brent
- Julian L'Estrange
- Herman Lieb
- Francis Joyner
- Joseph Daly
- Evelyn Axzell
Writers
- Albert Capellani
- June Mathis
Daybreak - FAQs
What is Daybreak (1918) about?
Daybreak follows Edith Frome, who abandons her alcoholic husband Arthur and quietly builds a secret life. When she returns years later, her mysterious nightly absences arouse his suspicion. Believing she is involved with a doctor, Arthur pursues divorce — until Edith reveals the truth about a hidden child, prompting reconciliation.
Is Daybreak (1918) a lost film?
Daybreak (1918) is widely considered a lost film. Like many silent-era productions, no known surviving print has been confirmed. The film's status as a lost work makes it a significant piece of early cinema history, preserving only its story through written records and contemporary reviews.
Who directed Daybreak in 1918?
Daybreak (1918) was directed by Albert Capellani, a pioneering French-born filmmaker who made a major impact on early American silent cinema. Capellani was known for his naturalistic storytelling style and his work with Metro Pictures Corporation during the silent era.
Who are the main actors in Daybreak (1918)?
The film stars Emily Stevens as Edith Frome, Augustus Phillips as Dr. David Brett, Julian L'Estrange as Arthur Frome, and Evelyn Brent as Detective Alma Peterson. The supporting cast includes Herman Lieb, Francis Joyner, Joseph Daly, and Evelyn Axzell.
How does alcoholism shape the story of Daybreak?
Alcoholism is the central conflict driving Daybreak's narrative. Arthur Frome's drinking forces Edith to leave the marriage entirely. His eventual sobriety, prompted by the revelation of Edith's hidden child and his own misplaced jealousy, becomes the emotional turning point that allows the couple to reconcile.
When was Daybreak released?
Daybreak was released on January 7, 1918, in the United States. It was produced by Metro Pictures Corporation, a major studio of the silent film era that would later become part of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM).
What are films similar to Daybreak (1918)?
Viewers interested in Daybreak may enjoy other silent-era dramas such as The Third Degree (1919), The Soul of Pierre (1915), Pegeen (1920), and The Trap (1919). For early talkie-era drama with similar themes, Dinner at Eight (1933) offers a compelling companion piece.
How long is the film Daybreak (1918)?
Daybreak (1918) has a runtime of approximately 50 minutes, which was a standard length for feature-length silent films of the period. The film was produced by Metro Pictures Corporation and directed by Albert Capellani.
More About Daybreak
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