The Cobweb (1917 film)

The Cobweb is a 1917 American silent film directed by Cecil B. DeMille. The film stars Cleo Ridgely, William Conklin, and Charles West. It is a drama centered around the themes of temptation, moral compromise, and societal expectations.

The story revolves around a woman named Lillian, played by Ridgely, who is caught between her genuine affection for her husband and the allure of a wealthy and powerful man. The film explores the consequences of her actions and the ethical dilemmas she faces. As Lillian becomes entangled in a web of deceit and social maneuvering, she must confront the potential destruction of her marriage and reputation.

While The Cobweb was a product of its time, reflecting contemporary social mores and anxieties, it showcased DeMille's developing directorial style and his penchant for dramatic narratives with strong female leads. The film is now considered lost, with no known surviving prints.