The Americano

Robert Hammond is the manager of the Mexican branch of the Manhattan Oil Company, in Tionana, Mexico, where he lives with his daughter, Elaine. He discharges from the oil works a worthless Mexican named Tonio. Shortly before a new superintendent, in the person of Boyd Norton, is sent from New York to take charge of the oil wells, under the direction of Hammond. Norton meets Hammond's daughter, Elaine. They are mutually attracted and ultimately engaged to be married. Norton is suddenly recalled to New York, and during his absence a group of bandit soldiers, under the leadership of the discharged Tonio make a raid upon Tionana, in the course of which Hammond is slain and Elaine is kidnapped by the bandits.

Directed by —, The Americano leans on a strong ensemble — Lawrence Peyton, Raymond Wells, Karl Formes — 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 1915.