Alias Jimmy Valentine

Robert Warwick (as Lee Randall aka "Jimmy Valentine") is a respected citizen by day, and a safecracker by night. His main adversary is lawman Robert Cummings (as Doyle), who wants to see Mr. Warwick in prison Sing-Sing. Ruth Shepley (as Rose Fay) is the woman who turns Warwick's head, and visa-versa. The situation changes several times over the course of the film; but, basically, Warwick wants to lead the straight life, as a banker family man - however, he is haunted by the past.

Director Maurice Tourneur makes this a visually exciting silent drama; many of the images are beautifully done. Warwick is remarkable in the lead role. Johnny Hines (as Red Joclyn) and Alec B. Francis (as Bill Avery) are also very good - the story livens up whenever they are on-screen with Warwick; the three are so good, you'll want them to pull a few more heists! However, there is no corresponding chemistry with Ms. Shepley; and, the children perform like wind-up dolls. "Alias Jimmy Valentine" is, unfortunately, not as exciting as it's production or direction. Still, it's quite an achievement for 1915.

******* Alias Jimmy Valentine (2/22/15) Maurice Tourneur ~ Robert Warwick, Johnny Hines, Alec B. Francis