Closed Gates (1927)

107-3 Lucy Beaumont and John Harron

Ruth Handforth, Bud Jamison, John Harron, Sidney De Gray, and Jane Novak in CLOSED GATES (1927)

107-29 Ruth Handforth, Bud Jamison, John Harron, Sidney De Gray, and Jane Novak

Jane Novak and John Harron in CLOSED GATES (1927)

107-68 Jane Novak and John Harron

Closed Gates
An Interesting Story Well Done
Reviewed by E. G. Johnston

MANFRED B. LEE, who wrote the story for this feature, offers this one in proff of his statement that the independent producer CAN make Broadway pictures. We are inclined to agree with Mr. Lee, for certainly it is on a par with many that have secured Metropolitan first runs. At least two of several dramatic situations reach considerable height, and Johnny Harron, Jane Novak and Sidney De Grey are to be commended for their sincere efforts. Director Phil Rosen has turned out a good piece of work.

Harron is seen in the role of a reckless youoth who has enlisted in the War after having been turned out of his home by his wealthy father after a long series of escapades. An auto wreck in which a girl companion is killed is the culmination. His invalid mother, the one source of inspiration for sentiment in the old millionaire, dies from the shock. There is not a whole lot to the war scenes, but enough to show Harron in an engagement where he loses his memory through shell shock. He is reported dead or missing but later returns listed as John Smith, Unknown, and marries a nurse who has helped him back to health. The latter's efforts never cease to help her husband recover his memory. The real moments of the picture occur during the scenes leading up to recognition and eventual reconciliation.

The Cast: Johnny Harron, Jane Novak, Sidney De Grey, Lucy Beaumont, Le Roy Mason, Rosemary Cooper, Ruth Handforth, Bud Jamison. Directed by Phil Rosen.

THEME: Regeration of wealthy, reckless youth cast from his home.

PRODUCTION HIGHLIGHTS: Good story and direction. The sincere work of the principals and entire cast: particularly in two scenes in latter reels.

EXPLOITATION ANGLES: War theme. This one in particular has had lots of newspaper publicity in connection with an unidentified veteran. Play up this angle.

DRAWING POWER: Looks like a good bet for most any house.

Produced by Sterling Productions. Distributed by S. R. (States Rights) Length 5,700 feet. Released May 30, 1927

-- Motion Picture News, June 3, 1927, p. 2227

With John Harron, Jane Novak, and Lucy Beaumont. Directed by Phil Rosen. Sterling.