The Iron Claw (1916 serial)

The Iron Claw was a 1916 American silent adventure film serial directed by George B. Seitz and Edward José. It was produced by Pathé Exchange. The serial consists of 20 episodes, each approximately two reels in length.

The story revolves around Margery Dare, a wealthy young woman who is targeted by a criminal mastermind known only as "The Iron Claw." The Iron Claw is characterized by his distinctive mechanical hand, which he uses in his nefarious schemes. Margery is pursued across various locations, facing dangers and deceptions at every turn.

The serial features a range of thrilling action sequences, daring escapes, and cliffhanger endings designed to keep audiences returning each week. Pearl White, a popular silent film actress known for her stunt work and portrayals of strong female characters, stars as Margery Dare. She is pursued by, and often rescued by, Harry Pollard, who plays the intrepid reporter, Dave Wyatt.

The Iron Claw is considered a notable example of the popular serial format that flourished during the silent era. It capitalized on the public's fascination with adventure, mystery, and suspense. While the serial is now considered lost, having no known complete prints surviving, its synopsis and promotional materials provide insight into its plot and appeal. It exemplifies the type of serialized storytelling common in early cinema, aiming to engage audiences on a weekly basis with exciting and often improbable narratives. The serial's loss is a significant one for film historians interested in studying early action and adventure cinema.