The Torch (1917) Director: Charles Giblyn Studio: Paramount Pictures Starring: Norma Talmadge, Eugene O'Brien, Frederick Perry Release Date: 1917 Runtime: Approximately 70 minutes Format: Silent | Black & White | Silent Film | Drama | Romance Country: United States Language: Silent (English intertitles) Genres: Drama | Romance | Silent Film Summary: The Torch (1917) is a silent drama featuring Norma Talmadge in a story of love, sacrifice, and social struggle. Set against a backdrop of class conflict, the film follows the trials of a young woman who must navigate hardships and heartbreak to protect those she loves. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, courage, and perseverance in the face of adversity. As a silent film, The Torch relies on expressive performances, visual storytelling, and emotive intertitles to convey its poignant tale. Background: Directed by Charles Giblyn and produced by the famous Norma Talmadge Film Corporation, this film was part of the silent era’s dramatic offerings showcasing Talmadge’s star power. The film is typical of 1910s melodramas focusing on emotional and moral dilemmas. Norma Talmadge was one of silent cinema’s biggest stars, known for her expressive acting and ability to carry complex roles with grace. The Torch highlights her dramatic talents during Hollywood’s formative years. Trivia: Norma Talmadge was a major silent film star and producer during the 1910s and 1920s. The film is considered a melodrama, popular in the silent film era. As a silent film, it features English intertitles to narrate dialogue and story points. Many prints of The Torch are now lost, making surviving copies rare and valuable. The film exemplifies early 20th-century social dramas focusing on class and personal sacrifice. Charles Giblyn directed several silent films during this period, often working with Talmadge. The production reflects the era’s typical studio system and star-driven marketing. Hashtags: #TheTorch #NormaTalmadge #SilentFilm #CharlesGiblyn #1910sCinema #Melodrama #ClassicFilm #SilentEra #FilmHistory #BlackAndWhiteFilm #VintageCinema #Drama #Romance #LostFilm #FilmPreservation