Her First Lesson

“If Her First Lesson is intended as a drama or a comedy it fails of its purpose. If it is intended as an instruction in the terpsichorean art, it is instructive chiefly as an example of how interpretative dancing would be done by the very clumsy and furry animal who follows Italian organ grinders—namely, the dancing bear. Miss Nellie Williams is the one bright spot in the performance. Cantankerous the view may be, but it is with something approaching amazement that we review this particular film—amazement at the lack of anything which one might praise, except Miss Williams. And even her work is of a ‘feature’ caliber, except by contrast. Where that other interpretive feminine dancer learned her art would be interesting to know. It is possible that the film is intended for a drama or comedy, and that the dancing was merely incidental. Perhaps that would be the kindest thought, for pointless dramas, whose ostensible purpose is but to entertain, are more excusable than pointless instruction.”

Note: This represents a very rare instance in 1914 of specific criticism in a review in The Morning Telegraph.