The Ticket-of-Leave Man

Apparently Pathe believes that the day of the adaptation as such is drawing to a close and that already the advertising force of "An adaptation from the famous" has passed away. This picture is not a photodramatization of the play entitled "The Ticket of Leave Man," but an adaptation of Charles Reade's novel, "Foul Play," and the melodrama Pathe has recently picturized under the title "Detective Craig's Coup." The picture differs quite a little in places from, the fiction story, but it is exceptionally well told and interesting, and clear except in one place, namely as to the feigned gold shipment and the plot to scuttle the ship. As it stands it is not quite clear how Allen expects to profit by the felony, because nothing is said about the insurance and secret transference of the real gold to another ship which brings it safely home. The characterization is excellent and leaves nothing to be desired. M.O. Penn, as the old merchant, has rather a slight part, but he has carried it off with the same force and finish that he puts into everything he does. The three principals, Sheldon Lewis, Harold Meltzer and Helena Gerard put a force and reality into their parts that makes them decidedly enthralling, while Hatch and Ryan as the general and the mate leave nothing to be desired. - Moving Picture World, October 24, 1914