The Cloud

FiveE reels are used in dispelling "The Cloud," a photodrama produced by the Van Dyke Film Corporation for the Art Dramas program. There are several other clouds than that referred to in the title to be found in the production, but viewed as a whole the picture is more blue sky of dramatic interest than cloud. Thickest of the clouds is the lack of continuity, which particularly characterizes the early reels. That the production is not much better than average is due in a large measure to this lack of continuity. Better continuity would have brought to life latent screen possibilities in the story, which has several original features, and which is somewhat off the beaten track. Jean Sothern is seen in a trifle different and more dramatic role than she has appeared in recently, and she is distinctly not the loser by her latest screen appearance. She has a very sympathetic role and makes the most of it. She is cast as a girl who sacrifices a fortune and suffers humiliations to protect her mother's good name which, it later develops, was unsmirched in the first place. There are several loose ends to the complicated story, some of which are gathered up in an anti-climax. The picture takes its title from the cloud hovering over the girl due to her and others' belief in the wrongdoing of her mother. But the cloud is finally dispelled and the girl, escaping the consequences of a mock marriage to a man she thought she loved, comes to the realization that she really loves the lawyer who has been her main help and adviser. Chief in support of Miss Sothern is Richard Tucker, who deserves especial commendation for his efficient acting in the role of the lawyer. Two capable young villains are Arthur Housman and Walter Miller. Included in the cast are Franklyn Hanna, Mae Melvin, Ogden Crane and Mrs. Charles Willard. Directed by Will S. Davis. - The Moving Picture World, March 24, 1917