The Jilt

Roy Norman and Marie Thompson are betrothed. However, a friend of Roy's, Allan Boyd, arrives and he and Marie are mutually attracted to each other. This attraction leads Marie to return the engagement ring to Roy. One evening, Marie pretends to have a headache to stay home from the opera with her parents, dismissing her maid, expecting a visit from Allan. Instead, Roy arrives, sees Marie with Boyd, and discovers their relationship. Later, Allan's brother, Dr. Boyd, informs Roy that Marie has been in an eastern hospital and has given birth to a baby. He shares a statement from Marie naming the father. A year later, Allan marries, having seemingly forgotten Marie.

Directed by Henry Otto, The Jilt leans on a strong ensemble — Edward Coxen, Winifred Greenwood, George Field — 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 1915.