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Mothers of Men is a 1917 American silent drama film directed by Willis Robards, with Dorothy Davenport as the lead actress. The film is set in a fictional future world in 1920, where women have gained the right to vote and hold office, and a tyrannical female governor holds power over the populace. The story follows the character of Clara Madison, played by Davenport, a newspaper journalist who opposes the governor's regime and fights for the people's freedom. She falls in love with the governor's nephew, who is torn between his loyalty to his aunt and his feelings for Clara.

As the governor's rule becomes increasingly oppressive, Clara and her fellow activists strive to overthrow the corrupt government and restore democracy to the state. The film tackles themes of power dynamics, gender roles, and political corruption, making it a significant work of early feminist cinema.

Mothers of Men was groundbreaking in its portrayal of women as political leaders, a radical departure from the traditional portrayal of women as subservient to men. The film's message was timely, airing in the same year that the 19th Amendment to the US Constitution was introduced, which granted women the right to vote.

Despite being over 100 years old, Mothers of Men remains a poignant and engaging work of cinema. The film's sweeping cinematography and masterful use of symbolism add depth and emotional resonance to the story. The scenes where the citizens of the town congregate to protest the governor's tyranny are particularly moving, with the sense of camaraderie and unity palpable.

The performances are also notable, with Davenport delivering a nuanced and powerful performance as Clara. She brings a sense of conviction and determination to the role, making Clara a character that the audience can root for. Maclyn King's portrayal of the conflicted nephew is also impressive, conveying a sense of inner turmoil and moral conflict without falling into melodrama.

Mothers of Men was significant not only for its feminist message but also for its technical achievements. The film features an impressive use of special effects for its time, including a sequence where a train is sabotaged, and a bridge collapses. The use of models and miniature sets was innovative and helped to create a sense of scale and epic scope.

Despite its historical significance, Mothers of Men was largely forgotten over time, and many of its prints were lost. However, in recent years, the film has undergone a revival, with restored copies now available for viewing. This renewed interest speaks to the film's enduring relevance and its importance in the development of feminist cinema.

In conclusion, Mothers of Men is a landmark work of early feminist cinema, tackling themes of political corruption and gender equality in a fictional future world. The film's impressive technical achievements and outstanding performances make it a must-see for cinephiles and anyone interested in the evolution of feminist filmmaking.