Within The Law (1923)

A poor shopgirl (Norma Talmadge), falsely accused of a theft, is sent to prison for three years. But before she's sent off, she makes a promise to get her revenge when she gets out of prison on the wealthy man (Joseph Kilgour) who was responsible for sending her there. Directed by Frank Lloyd (MUTINY ON THE BOUNTY), this melodrama takes a cynical and unflattering but not unjustified view of the law and how it is designed to accommodate the privileged while the working class takes the consequences. The film wears out its welcome with its convoluted and extended last act which adds unnecessary complications to the simplicity that preceded it. Talmadge was a major films star of the silent era but she isn't very much remembered today and it's easy to see why. Her screen presence is minimal and as an actress, she's no more than adequate. With Lew Cody, Jack Mulhall and Eileen Percy. Remade seven years later at MGM with Joan Crawford in Talmadge's part and retitled PAID.