Idolators

When playwright Curtis de Forest Ralston becomes enamored of actress Viola Strathmore, who is to appear in his play Vanity, Viola induces him to change certain parts and give her more lines. Curtis, who is not as talented as he believes himself to be, fails at his job but is saved by his wife Anita, a former actress, who has forsaken her career for marriage. Anita and her old manager, Bruce Winthrope, fashion the play to suit Viola, and Vanity becomes a huge success. The play's triumph enlarges Curtis's ego even further, and he deserts Anita for Viola.

Directed by Walter Edwards, Idolators leans on a strong ensemble — Louise Glaum, George Webb, Dorcas Matthews — 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 1917.