The Fourth Witness

William Bryant, a hopeless invalid due to a profligate life and made vicious by the fact, lives to make life a misery for his wife Margaret. One evening Bryant's physician, Dr. Cameron arrives at his patient's house, just in time, to intercept a blow that Bryant has directed at Margaret and knocks him unconscious in the ensuing struggle. Margaret flees with Cameron, observed by the chauffeur who enters the house with the intention of stealing. Meanwhile Bryant has regained consciousness and in his twisted mind determines to kill himself and frame his wife. He’s almost successful until at almost the last moment his butler steps forward and acknowledges that Bryant was shot as they struggle with his pistol which the chauffeur confirms.

Directed by John McDermott, The Fourth Witness leans on a strong ensemble — Charles Hill Mailes, Louise Lovely, George Berrell — 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 1917.