Cain and Abel (1911) User Reviews

The most reasonable presumption of "what might have been" is allowable

[deickemeyer · 12 May 2016]

The makers of this film undertook a great responsibility in endeavoring to portray such an extraordinary incident which marred the earliest days of the world's history. The first tragedy which cursed humanity presents so many unknown phases of thought that it was incumbent upon the producers of this scene to draw upon a most wise and discriminating imagination. In doing this it is pleasant to record that violence has not outraged the subject, while differences of opinion may repeatedly arise, it must be remembered that where detail of description is lacking the most reasonable presumption of "what might have been" is allowable. The consecutive order of the Biblical account has been preserved and a desire to faithfully follow the original is evident. The character of Abel is presented with suitable simplicity, but it is a question if that of Cain is not a little over-wrought; an excess of acting tends to exaggerate the manner of even the guilty one in a tragedy of this kind. The angel of the flaming sword is good thought, and no profane handling of so delicate a personality is shown. In its place as a Biblical picture Cain and Abel is capable of easy descriptive accompaniment, as it runs parallel with the original account, and is not spoiled by superfluous addition or conspicuous shortcomings. The angel's demand of Cain for the whereabouts of his brother, whose dead body throws off its stone covering when told "The voice of thy brother's blood crieth unto me from the ground." It is, perhaps, the best seen. It is wise that no attempt was made to interpret the "branding" of Cain; to finish the story with him facing the future under the curse is sufficient. The film possesses an even tenor and as such is acceptable, especially when the primitive conditions are taken into account. - The Moving Picture World, November 4, 1911