His Only Son

Bob Madden returns home slightly intoxicated and his father angrily commands him to leave the place and shift for himself. The next morning he goes, leaving his father a note: "Dear Dad, I am going out West and try to make a man of myself. I hope some day you will be proud of me. Your son. Bob."

Directed by Jack Conway, Milton J. Fahrney, His Only Son leans on a strong ensemble — Wallace Reid, Dorothy Davenport, Jack Conway — 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 1912.