Is The Third Kiss Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1919)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

The Third Kiss, a standout production of 1919, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Comedy, Drama landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Missy, the heiress to her uncle's fortune, resolves to make atonement for the innocent lives lost when her uncle's box factory burns down because of his criminal carelessness. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Comedy, Drama are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Missy, the heiress to her uncle's fortune, resolves to make atonement for the innocent lives lost when her uncle's box factory burns down because of his criminal carelessness. After her uncle dies, Missy disguises herself as an employee of the new factory and does settlement work where she meets Rupert Bawlf and his wife Cynthia. Rupert's friends Oliver Cloyne and Dr. Paton observe Rupert's infatuation with Missy and tell her that Rupert is the subject of gossip in society circles. Cloyne persuades Missy to wed him and avert scandal for the Bawlfs, and promises to divorce her later. After the honeymoon, Cloyne discovers Missy is an heiress. He kisses her twice and declares that if he kisses her a third time it will mean that he plans to keep her. Rupert is rejected by Missy and repents. Cloyne rescues Missy from a fire and gives her a third kiss that signifies their mutual love."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The presence of Vivian Martin provides a necessary level of professionalism to the production, even when the underlying script struggles to maintain a consistent tone. It is a testament to their skill that they remain the most engaging element of the film.

The direction by Robert G. Vignola is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 50 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is The Third Kiss truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Comedy, Drama, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 0/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, The Third Kiss explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1919 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Robert G. Vignola respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, The Third Kiss is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Vivian Martin or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, The Third Kiss is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.