Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm

Plot

Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm tells the story of young Rebecca Randall, a spirited and imaginative girl sent to live with her strict Aunt Miranda in Riverboro when her mother can no longer afford to care for her and her six siblings. Despite being treated harshly by her aunt and mocked by wealthy schoolmates as 'missy poor-house,' Rebecca's indomitable spirit and kindness win over the community. She excels in her studies, helps the less fortunate, and dreams of a future when she will be 'all growed up.' Through her adventures and misadventures, Rebecca transforms the lives of those around her, particularly her aunt, while maintaining her optimism and determination to succeed despite her humble beginnings.

Historical Background

The film was released in September 1917, a pivotal moment in American history as the nation had just entered World War I earlier that year. This period saw the film industry transitioning from short films to feature-length productions, with Mary Pickford at the forefront of this evolution. The silent film era was at its peak, with stars like Pickford becoming cultural icons with unprecedented international fame. The year 1917 also marked the establishment of the Famous Players-Lasky Corporation, which would later become Paramount Pictures. The film's wholesome themes and optimistic message resonated with audiences seeking escape from the anxieties of wartime. Additionally, this was during the Progressive Era, when themes of social mobility, education, and moral character were particularly relevant to American audiences.

Making Of

The production of 'Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm' was a carefully crafted endeavor by Mary Pickford's production team. Pickford, who was deeply involved in all aspects of her films during this period, worked closely with director Marshall Neilan and screenwriter Frances Marion to ensure the adaptation captured the essence of the beloved novel. The casting was particularly important, as Pickford needed to convince audiences she could portray a young girl despite being in her mid-twenties. The production utilized elaborate sets to recreate the rural atmosphere of both Sunnybrook Farm and the more sophisticated Riverboro. Pickford's attention to detail extended to her costumes and makeup, which were designed to enhance her youthful appearance. The film was shot during the summer of 1917, with Pickford maintaining her famous work ethic of long days on set. The collaboration between Pickford, Neilan, and Marion was so successful that they would work together on several other productions.

Visual Style

The cinematography by Walter Stradling and Charles Rosher employed the sophisticated techniques of the period, utilizing natural lighting where possible to enhance the rural settings. The film featured carefully composed shots that emphasized the emotional states of the characters, particularly in close-ups of Pickford's expressive face. The contrast between the humble Sunnybrook Farm and the more affluent Riverboro was visually established through set design and lighting choices. The camera work included subtle movements that were innovative for the time, helping to create a more immersive viewing experience. The cinematographers effectively used depth and framing to highlight Rebecca's isolation in her new environment and her eventual integration into the community.

Innovations

While not groundbreaking in technical innovation, the film demonstrated the sophisticated craftsmanship that had become standard in quality productions by 1917. The use of multiple camera angles and varied shot lengths showed the advancement of cinematic language beyond the static compositions of earlier films. The film's effective use of intertitles, likely written by Frances Marion, helped convey narrative information while maintaining the story's emotional flow. The production design successfully created distinct visual environments for different settings, and the makeup techniques used to age down Mary Pickford were considered quite effective for the period. The film's pacing and editing demonstrated a mature understanding of narrative structure, maintaining audience engagement throughout its seven reels.

Music

As a silent film, 'Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm' would have been accompanied by live musical performances in theaters. The typical score would have included popular songs of the era, classical pieces, and specially composed themes for different characters and situations. The music would have been performed by theater organists or small orchestras, with cue sheets provided to ensure appropriate musical accompaniment for each scene. The emotional tone of Rebecca's journey would have been enhanced through carefully selected musical pieces, ranging from jaunty tunes for her playful moments to more somber melodies during her struggles. The lack of surviving specific musical information means we can only speculate about the exact compositions used, but the practice of the time suggests a mix of familiar melodies and original themes.

Memorable Scenes

• Rebecca's dramatic entrance at the Riverboro school, where she first faces the mockery of her classmates
• The emotional scene where Rebecca writes a letter home to her mother, expressing both her loneliness and determination
• Rebecca's confrontation with the school bullies, where she stands up for herself with characteristic spirit
• The heartwarming moment when Aunt Miranda begins to soften toward Rebecca
• Rebecca's triumphant school performance where she proves her intelligence and creativity

What Critics Said

Contemporary critics praised 'Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm' as one of Mary Pickford's finest performances. The Motion Picture News called it 'a picture that will live in the hearts of millions' and specifically noted Pickford's 'wonderful portrayal of the lovable Rebecca.' Variety praised the film's faithful adaptation of the novel and highlighted the chemistry between Pickford and her co-stars. Modern film historians consider this a quintessential example of Pickford's work during her peak years, with the Museum of Modern Art noting its importance in the development of American feature cinema. Critics have consistently pointed to Frances Marion's screenplay as a model of literary adaptation, successfully capturing the spirit of the source material while making necessary cinematic adjustments.

What Audiences Thought

Audiences embraced 'Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm' with tremendous enthusiasm, making it one of the biggest box office successes of 1917. The film's wholesome themes and Pickford's charismatic performance resonated with viewers across all demographics. Children particularly identified with Rebecca's struggles and triumphs, while adults appreciated the film's moral lessons and entertainment value. The film's popularity extended internationally, with Pickford's fame ensuring strong attendance in foreign markets. Audience letters and contemporary accounts indicate that many viewers found the film emotionally moving and inspiring, with Rebecca's character becoming a role model for young girls of the era. The film's success reinforced Pickford's position as the most beloved actress of her time and demonstrated the commercial viability of family-oriented feature films.

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