SFF26 - Captain January (1924) (U)

Fill your life with film

1924. Director: Edward F Cline. Runtime: 75min.

This heart-warming family drama showcases the extraordinary star appeal of Baby Peggy, one of the most popular child performers of the silent era.

With her expressive face, impeccable comic timing, and apparent emotional intelligence, Baby Peggy was just five years old when she shot this film – already with an astonishing 45 shorts and features to her name. In Captain January, she charms as a foundling adopted by Hobart Basworth’s grizzled old lighthouse keeper, forming an unlikely family together with only a parrot and the sea for company.

The pair’s happiness is threatened when local do-gooders begin meddling and wealthy relatives arrive looking for the lost child. Unashamedly sentimental, brimming with gentle humour and playful mischief, this is a delight from start to finish – guaranteed to melt the most cynical of hearts.

Peggy (later known as Diana Serra Cary) disappeared from the spotlight aged eight, re-emerging as an author and campaigner for child actors’ rights.

Dir. Edward F. Cline | USA | 1924 N/C U | b&w | English intertitles | 1h 5m

With: Baby Peggy (Diana Sera Carey), Hobart Bosworth, Irene Rich

Performing live: Stephen Horne (piano, accordion)

Online programme notes: Fritzi Kramer

Screening material courtesy of Milestone/Kino Lorber.