Ebb Tide

Synopsis

Ebb Tide (1922), starring Lila Lee, is a silent adventure drama based on Robert Louis Stevenson's novel of the same name. Set against the exotic backdrop of the South Seas, the story follows three men who seek fortune and redemption on a remote island. Their journey involves themes of friendship, betrayal, and the struggle against nature and their own personal demons. The film captures the era's fascination with colonial adventure and human resilience, with Lila Lee playing a pivotal role that adds emotional depth to this romantic and suspenseful narrative. The visual storytelling and dramatic performances highlight the silent film era’s expressive style, making it a noteworthy classic for enthusiasts of early cinema.

Cast

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  Lila Lee

  Ruth Attwater

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  James Kirkwood

  Robert Herrick

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  Raymond Hatton

  J.L. Huish

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  George Fawcett

  Capt. Davis

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  Noah Beery

  Richard Attwater

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  Jacqueline Logan

  Tehura

Reviews

Ebb Tide (1922) has received mixed reviews over the years, reflecting its status as a silent film with a niche appeal. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 4.8 out of 10, indicating a generally lukewarm reception from modern viewers who may find the pacing slow and the story less engaging compared to contemporary standards. Critics acknowledge the film's historical value and commend the atmospheric settings and cinematography, which effectively evoke the isolated tropical locale and the tense mood. However, some reviews point out that the silent acting style and narrative can feel dated, and the plot might lack the emotional impact expected by today's audiences. Film historians often appreciate Lila Lee's performance and the adaptation's faithfulness to the source material's adventurous spirit. Rotten Tomatoes, while lacking a formal score for this obscure classic, features older critiques praising the film's contribution to early Hollywood adventure genres but noting its limited accessibility for mainstream viewers. Overall, Ebb Tide remains a valuable watch for silent film enthusiasts and those interested in early 20th-century cinematic adventure tales, though it may not resonate widely with those accustomed to modern filmmaking techniques.