The Female (1924 film)

The Female is a 1924 American silent drama film directed by Sam Wood, starring Betty Compson, Warner Baxter, and Noah Beery. The film is based on the novel The Price She Paid by David Graham Phillips.

The story revolves around a young woman, Alison Bainbridge (played by Betty Compson), who makes a marriage of convenience to a wealthy older man to escape poverty and support her family. The film explores themes of social climbing, the role of women in society, and the consequences of sacrificing personal happiness for financial security. Alison finds herself increasingly trapped in a loveless marriage and longs for genuine connection and fulfillment. Warner Baxter plays the role of a man who enters Alison’s life and offers the possibility of true love, leading to a moral dilemma. The film's ending poses questions about Alison’s ultimate choices and the price she is willing to pay for her decisions.

The film was produced by Paramount Pictures and was generally well-received by critics upon its release. Betty Compson's performance was particularly praised. The film is now considered lost.