The Challenge

Quarrier's rival Robert Lester schemes to have the engineer imprisoned, but the government pardons him so he can oversee a project vital to the country's growth. On the job, Quarrier once again meets Lester, who has tricked Alberta Bradley into selling him the land which is to be used for the project. Alberta still feels as if the land is her own, and threatens to kill the first of Quarrier's workers to swing a pick into it. Quarrier himself begins digging, and while she is unable to kill him, she vows to hate him forever. Gradually, their relationship softens, and the two come to love each other, with Alberta acknowledging the worth of Quarrier's project. Then, working together, they expose Lester to government authorities, since he has been plotting to keep all of the project's profits for himself.

Directed by Donald MacKenzie, The Challenge leans on a strong ensemble — Montagu Love, Helene Chadwick, Ben Hendricks Sr. — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1916.