The Man Who Came Back

Young broker Donald Baxter is ruined financially and resolves to "come back" and start life afresh. He does so, returning incognito at the end of 5 years. He purchases his old home, but gives out the impression that it is his valet, Mr. Hawkins, who is the successful "Klondyke Millionaire." His one-time fiancée and her purse-proud mother at once endeavor to cultivate Hawkins, whom Baxter prevails upon to enter society, much to his discomfiture. Meanwhile, Baxter, passing as a still-poor man, meets and falls in love with pretty Mabelle Arnold, the Porters' ward. Eventually, the true identities of Hawkins and Baxter are disclosed, causing haughty Mrs. Porter and her daughter Helen much chagrin and pretty Mabelle much pleasure, as she and Baxter plan to share sorrows and joys.

Directed by Henry Harrison Lewis, The Man Who Came Back leans on a strong ensemble — Harry A. Pollard, Margarita Fischer, Fred Gamble — 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 screen titles of 1914.