The First Born

(Miles Mander, UK 1928, 84 min., 35mm)

Silent Tuesdays. “The First Born, adapted by Miles Mander from his own novel and play, deals with difficult subjects—the double standards of the upper classes, jealousy and secrecy, miscegenation, and the tension between conformity and a more modern morality. The story concerns the relationship between Sir Hugh Boycott (Mander) and his young bride Madeleine, sensitively played by a pre-blonde Madeleine Carroll. Their relationship is intense and passionate but founders when she fails to produce an heir. He immediately reverts to type and leaves for North Africa where he has an African mistress and child. The film is masterly in its construction and continuity. There are moments very reminiscent of early Hitchcock—perhaps unsurprisingly, as Alma Reville was heavily involved with the preparation of the scenario.” – Bryony Dixon, British Film Institute

Live piano by Philip C. Carli. Special support provided by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.