Tinsel

After the death of her second husband, Princess Sylvia Carzoni writes to her first husband, Richard Carmichael, requesting the custody of their daughter Ruth. The naïve Ruth is so thrilled at the prospect of entering society that Richard reluctantly allows her to go, and in her new surroundings, she happily receives the attentions of several of her mother's friends. Through her own innocence, Ruth withstands their advances, but she falls victim to the dashing Jefferson Kane, who suggests that she visit him at his home. Suspicious, Sylvia follows her daughter to Jefferson's estate, where she finds Ruth struggling with the villain, and after denouncing him, Sylvia takes the girl home. Sylvia lovingly embraces Ruth, and as she is discussing the shallowness of society life, Richard and Bobby Woodward, Ruth's old sweetheart, arrive demanding Ruth's return. Eventually, however, Sylvia regains Richard's love, and Ruth is united with Bobby.

Directed by Oscar Apfel, Tinsel leans on a strong ensemble — Kitty Gordon, Muriel Ostriche, Frank Mayo — 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 1918.