The Last Deal

A gambling story which presents a moral so palpable that it requires no explanation to make it plain. The novelty lies in having the husband come in contact with his brother-in-law, who is winning money to help him make restitution. The young man is saved, but his punishment includes the loss of his position. The moral influence of this picture should be strong. Gambling is well understood to be a dangerous vice, no matter in what form it may be indulged, but perhaps few realize the actual status until it is shown to them in some such hideous form as this. Whether the Biograph people sought to preach a sermon against gambling or not is uncertain, but that they have done so, and very effectively, will be admitted by practically everyone who sees this picture. Dramatically and photographically it is quite as good as the best. - The Moving Picture World, February 12, 1910

The 35 year old D.W. Griffith may have convictions to write and direct, but one thing his short films lack is spirit. You can be the most technically gifted editor in the business, but if there is no soul in your film then it is just a waste of creativity. This eleven minute offering lacked flavour, colour, texture, variety and spirit. It was bland to watch and left absolutely no impression on me whatsoever. It needed a bit a of character and personality, something intimate and universal that would give the story some humanity. I rate this a 3 out of 10 because I'm surprised it was even commissioned to be made. Without a question of a doubt, this short film is a product of the conveyor belt of creativity.