The Great Adventure

On the page and in the silent frame, a talented artist finds himself dodging the attention of a persistent woman by taking on a servant's guise. He masquerades as a valet to escape unwanted advances, and the ruse leads him into a new personal life when he marries a second woman. From behind the scenes he continues to paint, weaving color and light into his work while keeping the brushwork hidden from the everyday world. The setup blends flirtation with farce as social roles blur and small obligations cascade into comic misunderstandings. The result is a breezy romance underscored by a sly comic energy that defines early screen comedy. Its charm rests on timing, facial expression, and a social dance.

Directed by Kenneth S Webb this 1921 silent romance comedy adapts material credited to Arnold Bennett and Dorothy Farnum. Lionel Barrymore stars as Priam Farll with Doris Rankin and Octavia Broske providing the principal supporting turns. The ensemble radiates grace.

Box office data for this era is not widely documented and not readily available. Modern references to its earnings are sparse, and the film is primarily of interest to silent film historians and Lionel Barrymore fans, to collectors and archivists.

Cultural impact for a 1921 romance comedy is limited in contemporary pop culture, but the film reflects twentieth century tastes for mistaken identity and sly wit. Lionel Barrymore's persona as a stylish artist and social chameleon echoes across his era's stage and screen performances. It remains of interest to historians.

Reception to The Great Adventure at the time seems to have treated it as light entertainment rather than a bold statement. The film's themes include disguise, art versus money, and romance that survives through humor and mutual respect rather than grand gestures. Its quiet tone and era charm resonate today.