The Sin Woman

Grace Penrose (Fenwick) is established as a "vampire"—a femme fatale type character of the era—due to heredity. Seeking a change from city life, she retires to a mountain lodge. She encounters married man John Winthrop and becomes obsessed with stealing him from his wife, Beth. The husband leaves his wife for Grace. The wife, however, seeks help from the local female mayor, whose own son was previously victimized by Grace. The townspeople, led by the mayor, take action against Grace. The film concludes with the villagers taking Grace to be tarred and feathered while the husband begs for, and is granted, forgiveness.

Directed by George W. Lederer, The Sin Woman leans on a strong ensemble — Irene Fenwick, Clifford Bruce, George Morgan — 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.