The North Wind's Malice

When Lois Folsom's continual complaints about her husband Roger's sloppiness finally drive him out of the house, Lois seeks solace in the company of their friend, Henry Carter. Roger's brother Tom, angry at Lois because of her interference in his courtship of Dorothy Halstead, the ward of Jewish storekeeper Abe Guth, informs his brother that Lois has kissed Carter. This knowledge propels him to accept Jack Harkness' invitation to join in a gold mining expedition of Arctic City in Alaska. Unaware that his wife is pregnant, Roger leaves, and Lois, who is now desperate, accepts Carter's care. In the meantime, the Guth's store is destroyed by fire and Tom sustains the family by stealing food, but is jailed for his efforts. After Lois' baby is born, Carter ventures North to inform Roger. After an initial confrontation between the two men, Roger returns to his wife and frees Tom from jail. Tom, realizing the damage that his lies have caused, confesses his deceit and wins Dorothy's heart.

Directed by Paul Bern, Carl Harbaugh, The North Wind's Malice leans on a strong ensemble — Tom Santschi, Jane Thomas, Joe King — 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 1920.