The Belle of New York | |
---|---|
![]() | |
Directed by | Julius Steger |
Written by | Eugene Walter |
Based on | The Belle of New York 1897 musical by Hugh Morton and Gustave Kerker |
Produced by | Marion Davies |
Starring | Marion Davies Etienne Girardot |
Music by | Max Winkler |
Distributed by | Select Pictures |
Release date |
|
Running time | 50 minutes |
Country | United States |
Languages | Silent English intertitles |

The Belle of New York is a 1919 silent film directed by Julius Steger and starring Marion Davies.[1][2]
It survives incomplete in the Library of Congress collection missing several reels.[3]
"The Belle of New York" was a popular film in its time and contributed to Marion Davies' rising fame in Hollywood. It's worth noting that this film was later remade as a musical in 1952, starring Fred Astaire and Vera-Ellen, with some variations in the plot and setting.
Plot summary
Violet Gray is a devout Salvation Army worker in New York City. She is known for her piety and dedication to helping the less fortunate. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets a wealthy playboy named George Flushing, played by Holbrook Blinn. George is immediately smitten by Violet's beauty and innocence.
Despite George's reputation as a ladies' man and his extravagant lifestyle, he decides to reform and win Violet's heart. He pretends to have a religious awakening and joins the Salvation Army to get closer to her. This leads to various comedic situations as George tries to adapt to the austere and virtuous lifestyle of the Salvation Army.
As the story unfolds, Violet remains oblivious to George's true identity and intentions. She believes that he genuinely wants to change for the better. However, complications arise when George's old friends and associates try to lure him back into his former lifestyle of parties and extravagance.
Ultimately, the film explores themes of redemption, love, and the contrast between the decadence of high society and the simplicity of the Salvation Army. It's a lighthearted romantic comedy with musical elements, and it showcases Marion Davies' talents as a comedic actress.
Cast
- Marion Davies as Violet Gray
- Etienne Girardot
- L. Rogers Lytton as Amos Gray
- Franklyn Hanna
- Raymond Bloomer as Jack Bronson
Unbilled
- Christian Rub
- Barbara Sabin - Little Girl
References
External links

- The Belle of New York at IMDb
- The Belle of New York at AllMovie
- The Belle of New York at the TCM Movie Database
- The Belle of New York at the American Film Institute Catalog