A silent western film directed by Thomas H. Ince featuring Mary Pickford as Nello.
Story Structure — 4 Plot Phases
Script Development
Thomas H. Ince drafts the screenplay and outlines the silent western narrative structure.
Key Events
Script Development — Thomas H. Ince conceives and writes the silent western screenplay. Characters: NelloLocation: United States
Lead Casting — Mary Pickford is officially cast as the protagonist Nello. Characters: NelloLocation: United States
Casting & Preparation
Mary Pickford is selected for the lead role of Nello, with Owen Moore attached to the cast.
Key Events
Lead Casting — Mary Pickford is officially cast as the protagonist Nello. Characters: NelloLocation: United States
Production Oversight — Carl Laemmle manages the production logistics and funding. Characters: NelloLocation: United States
Production Execution
Carl Laemmle oversees filming and technical execution for the silent format.
Key Events
Production Oversight — Carl Laemmle manages the production logistics and funding. Characters: NelloLocation: United States
Release & Distribution
The finished film is distributed and premieres in the United States.
Key Events
Theatrical Premiere — The completed film premieres on April 17, 1911. Characters: NelloLocation: United States
Story Breakdown
Creative Direction — Thomas H. Ince serves as both director and screenwriter.
Visual Style — Silent film conventions of the era.
Narrative Focus — Western genre themes and pacing.
Production Management — Carl Laemmle handles overall production duties.
Budget Oversight — Financial planning and resource allocation.
Studio Coordination — Logistical support for filming.
Cast Composition — Key performers assigned to specific roles.
Protagonist — Mary Pickford portrays Nello.
Supporting Actor — Owen Moore appears in the cast.
Release Strategy — Distribution plans for the American market.
Premiere Date — Scheduled for April 17, 1911.
Target Audience — General cinema patrons in the US.
Technical Specifications — Format and production standards.
Film Format — Silent black-and-white motion picture.
Runtime — Short film duration typical of the era.
Historical Context — Placement within early American cinema.
Genre Classification — Early Western and drama.
Industry Era — Pre-Code silent film period.
A lost film. Jose Almedo is a cattle thief. Marie, his wife, endeavors to assist him. Jose and his band plan to run off some cattle belonging to a rancher. Marie goes to warn them, carrying her little girl, Nello. In her desperation, she struggles across the range but is in the path of the cattle which are being pursued by the thieves. Marie is trampled to death but the child is unharmed. Years elapse and Nello has grown to be a woman.