The Red Lily is the story of a boy (Ramon Novarro) and a girl (Enid Bennett) who fall in love. His father does not approve of their potentially marrying because she is poor and has lost her father. However, the two plan to wed anyway and the father disowns his son. Problems arise with the father that tears them apart, often just steps away from finding each other but to no avail. Their lives change drastically in the process, the girl turning to prostitution to make a living and the boy teaming up with a thief named Bobo (Wallace Beery) and running from the law.
The plot of the film is brilliantly done; there is plenty of tension throughout the film which puts the audience's emotions into overdrive. The film was shot extremely well; every frame is a work of art. The tinting is not overdone at all either. The characters are very likable, thanks to the wonderful acting by the cast. Bennett is appropriately tragic and sweet, but not in a bland way. She makes a very traditional role into something special. Novarro is great making his transition from a devoted protector to a paranoid hardened man of the streets. Beery is at his best here; every expression is a delight to watch. He balances humor and sincerity very well.
Scott Salinas provides a gorgeous and perfect score for the TCM presentation of the film. He truly understand the art of bringing emotion to a scene; he managed to make every note blend excellently with the fabric of the story.
This is silent movie making at its best, and thanks to an awesome restoration, new audiences can begin to appreciate Hollywood history.
