The Melody of Doom
(1915) United States of America
B&W : One reel
Directed by Frank Beal
Cast: Eugenie Besserer [Zara, the adventuress]
The Selig Polyscope Company, Incorporated, production; distributed by [?] V-L-S-E, Incorporated or The General Film Company, Incorporated? / Produced by William N. Selig. From a story by William E. Wing. / Released 2 August 1915. / Standard 35mm spherical 1.33:1 format.
Drama.
Synopsis: [?] [From The Moving Picture World]? Henri, a violinist, nurses a fevered Hindu back to life. Henri receives a letter, reading, “I enclose proofs that the she-devil, Zara, whose terrible influence over your brother led him into deepest crime, has put him out of the way. Avenge his death.” And then it is that the mystic begins to teach Henri how to play “The Melody of Doom” upon Henri’s violin. Zara, the adventuress, has begun to weave her spell about Weaver, a messenger in his uncle’s bank. She coaxes him to give her the bank funds. Weaver, with a satchel of the bank’s funds, visits Zara. Just as the woman has him in her power, and reaches for the satchel of money. “The Melody of Doom” is played from without. A note is handed Zara which states: “The police will come for you. They know of Adolphi’s death. Fly to 16% Alley Court. I am in hiding there also. Will watch for your coming.” Zara leaves for the address where she is confronted by Henri, who says: “I am Henri, brother of Adolphi whom you slew.” Zara, locked in an inner room, receives a note which reads: “Until you shall confess to justice, the death of Adolphi, the strains of fear will haunt your prison chamber. Henri.” Henri draws the bow across the violin strings, beginning the theme. Unable to stand the strain Zara confesses.
Survival status: (unknown)
Current rights holder: Public domain [USA].
Listing updated: 13 August 2023.
References: Lahue-Selig p. 209 : Website-IMDb..
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