The Better Man

Big Jim Cullison, boss of the Henley logging camp, hires Grace Ivers. She proves very capable, and he comes to value her. Sometime later Jerry Henley, the owner of the camp, arrives on a tour of inspection, accompanied by his secretary, Graves. The latter is an old confidence man, who had once wronged Grace, and he threatens to expose her if she gives his game away. Jim overhears, kicking Graves out of the camp, forcing him to write a note to his employer, saying that he has been called out of town on business. Jim thinks Grace has fallen for Henley and steps aside. But when Henley departs Grace tells Jim she really loves him, and the lovers are united.

Directed by Jay Hunt, The Better Man leans on a strong ensemble — Jack Holt, Lucille Young, Jack Nelson — 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 western titles of 1916.