Forgotten Superstars

Yes, we're all aware of the popularity of such actors and actresses as Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, Charlie Chaplin, Gloria Swanson, Rudolph Valentino, Clara Bow, Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd, Lillian Gish, and a few others during the teens and twenties.

But there was some equally popular stars (though not as long lasting as those mentioned above) during those two decades. Some of these I've run across by accident. When I first found a list of the top male and female box office stars, beginning with 1915, I had never heard of Anita Stewart, who topped the list in 1917, and Marguerite Clark, who was tops in 1920 and 1921.

I recently viewed Snow White with Clark. I found her completely delightful; I can totally understand her popularity. Like Pickford, she mostly played juvenile roles, though she herself was in her 30s at the time. Several of her films are available for viewing.

I've yet to be able to find a film with Anita Stewart. Under personal contract to Louis B. Mayer in her heyday, her most well-known role was in Virtuous Wives, a big hit for her. It's survival status is unknown.

King Baggott was the most well-known face in film around 1913, probably the first international film star, who exclusively a film actor. A huge star at the time, he eventually fell by the wayside due to ego, drinking, and bad choices. I've seen Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. In his Jekyll scenes, I can certainly see his appeal: tall, masculine, dapper, and sophisticated. His most acclaimed film was Absinthe from 1914, and his most popular was Ivanhoe in 1913. Both were directed by Herbert Brenon, one of the most important silent film directors, who also directed him in Dr. Jekyll. Their collaborations enhanced both of their careers. Ivanhoe does exist and is available, but I haven't found a copy of it. To celebrate its 100th anniversary last year, it was shown outside in Ireland at the castle where it was filmed.

Although people are familiar with Sessue Hayakawa because of his work in films such as Three Came Home, The Bridge on the River Kwai, and Swiss Family Robinson, he was a major box office attraction in the late teens. I love his performance in The Cheat, so sensual, so appealing in his villainy, so still for most of his time on screen. His appeal is universal. I've also seen him in The Secret Game, The Dragon Painter, and The Tong Man, all of which indicate why he was so popular. I believe a few more of his silent films are available.

So, what are some forgotten superstars you are aware of or have an affinity for or some you're aware of, but haven't seen their work? Or comments on those I mentioned. Please say a little about them rather than just listing them.

"The answers to all of life's riddles can be found in the movies."