Lonesome

19281h 10m Directed by Pál Fejős
7.4
(72 votes)
RomanceDrama

Overview

Two lonely people in the big city meet and enjoy the thrills of an amusement park, only to lose each other in the crowd after spending a great day together. Will they ever see each other again?

Lonesome

A Timeless Tale of Urban Isolation: "Lonesome" Review

Clara Moreau
Clara MoreauNov 30, 2025
"Lonesome" is a poignant and beautifully crafted silent film that explores the themes of loneliness, connection, and the human experience in the bustling city. Released in 1928, this 70-minute romantic drama directed by Paul Fejos tells the story of two lonely souls who find each other in the midst of a crowded metropolis, only to lose each other in the chaos of everyday life. The film's narrative is simple yet powerful, relying on the expressive performances of its leads and the masterful use of cinematic techniques to convey the emotions and longing of its characters.

The film's portrayal of urban isolation is both haunting and relatable, as it captures the sense of disconnection and anonymity that can come with city living. The two protagonists, played by Barbara Kent and Glenn Tryon, are beautifully developed, their characters' loneliness and vulnerability palpable in every scene. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and their romance blossoms in the magical setting of an amusement park, where they find joy and freedom in each other's company. The cinematography is stunning, with Fejos using a range of techniques, including montage and close-ups, to create a sense of intimacy and wonder.

Despite being a silent film, "Lonesome" is remarkably engaging, with a narrative that is both universally relatable and historically significant. The film's themes of loneliness and connection are timeless, and its portrayal of city life in the 1920s is a fascinating glimpse into the past. While some viewers may find the pacing a bit slow or the lack of dialogue challenging, the film's emotional resonance and technical craftsmanship make it a must-see for fans of classic cinema. With a runtime of just 70 minutes, "Lonesome" is a compact and impactful film that will leave viewers pondering the human condition and the power of connection in our increasingly urbanized world. Overall, "Lonesome" is a masterpiece of silent cinema that continues to captivate audiences with its beautiful storytelling, memorable characters, and enduring themes.

CAST

Barbara Kent
Barbara Kent
Mary
Glenn Tryon
Glenn Tryon
Jim
Fay Holderness
Fay Holderness
Overdressed Woman
Gusztáv Pártos
Romantic Gentleman
Eddie Phillips
Eddie Phillips
The Sport
Andy Devine
Andy Devine
Jim's Friend (uncredited)
Henry Armetta
Henry Armetta
Ferris Wheel Guy (uncredited)
Edgar Dearing
Edgar Dearing
Cop (uncredited)
Louise Emmons
Louise Emmons
Telephone Caller (uncredited)
Fred Esmelton
Fred Esmelton
Swami (uncredited)

Trailer

Recent Reviews

Giant

Giant

Nov 23, 2025

George Stevens' "Giant" is a sprawling, ambitious drama that explores the complexities of racial ten...

Gunfight at the O.K. Corral

Gunfight at the O.K. Corral

Nov 23, 2025

The 1957 film "Gunfight at the O.K. Corral" is a classic Western that has stood the test of time, th...

The Tin Star

The Tin Star

Nov 23, 2025

The Tin Star, a classic Western released in 1957, is a thought-provoking and visually stunning film ...

Last Train from Gun Hill

Last Train from Gun Hill

Nov 23, 2025

"Last Train from Gun Hill" is a gripping Western that delves into the complexities of loyalty, frien...

The Man from Laramie

The Man from Laramie

Nov 23, 2025

The Man from Laramie, directed by Anthony Mann, is a gripping Western drama that delves into the com...

3:10 to Yuma

3:10 to Yuma

Nov 23, 2025

The 1957 classic Western "3:10 to Yuma" is a gripping tale of cat and mouse, where the lines between...

Winchester '73

Winchester '73

Nov 23, 2025

"Winchester '73" is a classic Western film that has stood the test of time, and its enduring appeal ...

The Gunfighter

The Gunfighter

Nov 23, 2025

The Gunfighter, directed by Henry King, is a thought-provoking Western that delves into the complexi...

Shane

Shane

Nov 23, 2025

The 1953 film "Shane" is a masterfully crafted Western that has stood the test of time, its themes a...

Johnny Guitar

Johnny Guitar

Nov 23, 2025

"Johnny Guitar" is a 1954 Western drama that has stood the test of time, and its enduring appeal can...

The Big Country

The Big Country

Nov 23, 2025

The Big Country, directed by William Wyler, is a sprawling epic that delves into the complexities of...

High Noon

High Noon

Nov 23, 2025

"High Noon" is a landmark Western drama that has stood the test of time, its themes and messages rem...