The Chalice of Sorrow

Isabel Clifford sits to be painted. Her artist is Marion Leslie, a man distracted by matters of the flesh. Not Isabel’s flesh but Lorelei’s, the same Lorelei who wows the corrupt police chief, Sarpina, with her virtuoso vocal performances. She is Mexico’s most celebrated opera diva, Marion’s fiancé, and Sarpina’s passion, yet she boils with petty suspicion over Marion’s friendship with Isabel.

Directed by Rex Ingram, The Chalice of Sorrow leans on a strong ensemble — Cleo Madison, Blanche White, Charles Cummings — 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 1916.