Review of True Heart Susie (1919) by Emily O — 09 May 2011

The protagonist in True Heart Suzie is regularly credited with pioneering subtle acting in front of the camera, as opposed to sweeping, dramatic acting of theater players attempting to transition to the new medium. In some parts of the film, it's a little difficult to believe, given today's films with high definition technology, more sophistication, and able to catch every nuance in an actor's face. Compared to earlier films, however, miss Suzie is quite the refined actress.

The story centers on True Heart Suzie, who sells her cow in the name of love to send her neighbor boy, William, to college. When he eventually returns, Suzie is heartbroken to find that he has (and marries) a modern young lady named Bettina. Through Bettina's propensity for partying and enjoying pursuits away from her more mild-mannered husband, she eventually becomes ill and dies. Susie and William end up getting married afterwards, and it's happily ever after for True Heart Suzie, proving that true love can eventually conquer anything, even another marriage.

The film is a simple country love story, and it reminded me a little bit of the children's tale of the city and the country mouse. When William goes off to college, he's blinded somewhat by the city and returns with a city girl. Eventually, through pain and suffering, he finds what's been waiting in the country for him all along, and he finds a different kind of happiness with the girl who's loved him all her life.

True Heart Susie is a little bit boring, a little bit cute, and a little bit heartbreaking (especially when Susie discovers William's engagement). A lovely film to watch and a nice break from nonstop action flicks of today.