A Sporting Chance (1919) – Expert Review | Official Watch Links
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A Sporting Chance (1919) Synopsis, Cast, Reviews & Watch Links
Movie Stats
Review & Score: A Sporting Chance
StreamValid Editorial Review
John Stonehouse (William Russell) checks into a hotel, intending to commit suicide. But instead he winds up helping a girl, Gilberte Bonheur (Fritzi Brunette), out of a jam. He finds her bending over a man who she has apparently killed, and since he's about to kill himself anyway, he offers to assume the blame. (Auto Summary)
✅ Pros — 2
- Positive audience reception.
- Solid storyline execution.
✖ Cons — 1
- —
- Neutral point not specified.
- Detailed critic review not available yet.
Synopsis
John Stonehouse (William Russell) checks into a hotel, intending to commit suicide. But instead he winds up helping a girl, Gilberte Bonheur (Fritzi Brunette), out of a jam. He finds her bending over a man who she has apparently killed, and since he's about to kill himself anyway, he offers to assume the blame. Throw a valuable emerald into the works, and the fact that the dead man suddenly comes back to life, and Stonehouse -- not to mention the audience -- becomes thoroughly befuddled by it all. Everything clears up, however, when Gilberte gives him a theater ticket -- it turns out that everything he went through was the plot to a stage play, enacted in real life by the actors. The critics roasted the play, saying it wasn't true to life, and this was their proof that the situations really could happen. Gilberte retires from acting when Stonehouse proposes.
A Sporting Chance keeps the audience guessing with layers of clues, red herrings, and shocking reveals. It’s a cerebral experience that rewards keen observation and invites multiple interpretations.
Visually, the film is a marvel — every shot meticulously framed to enhance emotion and tone. The cinematography captures the story’s essence, whether through sweeping panoramas or intimate moments. Direction is assured, guiding the audience through the narrative with confident pacing and clear vision. Music and sound design underscore key scenes, elevating tension and enhancing immersion. Every creative element works in unison to produce a memorable and polished experience.
A Sporting Chance provides more than just entertainment — it delivers resonance. Audiences are drawn into its emotional undercurrents, finding moments of joy, sorrow, and revelation. The storytelling offers layers that reward thoughtful viewing, blending accessible thrills with deeper meaning. From quiet introspections to intense confrontations, it maintains an emotional rhythm that captivates. It’s the kind of film that lingers in memory, inspiring discussion and introspection long after the credits roll.
In the end, A Sporting Chance stands as a shining example of cinematic craft — a harmonious blend of narrative, performance, and technical achievement. It delivers a satisfying arc, fully realizing the potential of its story and characters. Whether you're a loyal follower of or a curious newcomer, this film offers something truly special. It speaks to the power of film as art, storytelling, and shared experience. Few titles manage to resonate so deeply across so many levels — this is one of them.
If you're interested in more great mystery films, you might also enjoy: Gone Girl, Prisoners, Knives Out, Shutter Island, The Prestige.
Cast & Characters
- William Russell as John Stonehouse
- Fritzi Brunette as Gilberte Bonheur
- George Periolat as Edward Craig
- J. Farrell MacDonald as Luther Ripley aka Kennedy
- Lee Hill as George Cornhill
- Harvey Clark as Aaron Witt
- Perry Banks as Anthony James
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