Is Under Suspicion Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Under Suspicion is likely a skip if you enjoy Comedy movies.
It features a runtime of 50 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Under Suspicion Review
Last updated: January 13, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1918, Under Suspicion emerges as a significant entry in the Comedy, Mystery domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Gerry Simpson (Bushman) meets newspaper reporter Virginia Blake (Bayne) and, after learning that she has no use for the idle rich, decides to become a reporter and make Virginia believe he is poor in order to win her. Unlike standard genre fare, Under Suspicion attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
The screenplay, appearing to prioritize narrative momentum and immediate impact, sets a stage where the stakes feel personal yet universal. Under the directorial eye of Will S. Davis, every scene is crafted to contribute to the atmospheric weight of the story, ensuring that the Comedy elements serve the larger narrative arc rather than just providing spectacle.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass in Character Study
The success of any Comedy is often anchored by its ensemble, and Under Suspicion features a noteworthy lineup led by Francis X. Bushman. Supported by the likes of Beverly Bayne and Eva Gordon, the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes. However, the sheer charisma of Francis X. Bushman, Beverly Bayne, Eva Gordon manages to keep the audience invested through the film's more predictable sequences. In the broader context of 1918 cinema, these performances stand as a testament to the evolving standards of acting within the Comedy, Mystery space.
Directorial Vision & Technical Craftsmanship
From a technical perspective, Under Suspicion is a marvel of 21st-century filmmaking. The cinematography, utilizing a moody and atmospheric color palette, significantly enhances the world-building aspects of the production. Each frame seems calculated to guide the viewer's emotional response, whether through wide, sweeping vistas or tight, claustrophobic close-ups that emphasize character isolation.
Technical Excellence: The production design and visual effects provide a solid foundation for the story, ensuring that the world of the film feels lived-in and authentic, even when the narrative logic falters. Furthermore, the sonic landscape—comprising both the score and sound design—adds a layer of subtextual narrative that rewards attentive viewers.
Narrative Pacing & Structural Integrity
The structure of Under Suspicion follows a sophisticated brisk pace. Over its 50 minute duration, the film manages to balance exposition with action in a way that remains consistently entertaining. The second act, often the most difficult to manage, serves here as a crucible for character growth, leading toward a climax that feels both inevitable and surprising.
Critically, the editing choices by the team help maintain a narrative tension that rarely wavers. The sharp, concise editing ensures that not a single frame is wasted, making the film ideal for a modern audience that values efficiency in storytelling.
Cultural Impact & Global Resonance
Beyond its immediate entertainment value, Under Suspicion resonates with contemporary social and cultural themes prevalent in the Comedy landscape of 2026. It addresses concepts such as the nature of heroism and personal legacy with a level of maturity that is often missing from major releases.
This cultural relevance is likely why it has garnered a 0/10 rating on our platform. Films like this bridge the gap between niche interest and global appeal, proving that stories rooted in specific human experiences can find a home with audiences worldwide, from the US and UK to India and beyond.
Plot Breakdown & Philosophical Subtext
Analyzing the plot deeper, Under Suspicion is more than just its synopsis. It is an inquiry into the boundaries of human experience. Gerry Simpson (Bushman) meets newspaper reporter Virginia Blake (Bayne) and, after learning that she has no use for the idle rich, decides to become a reporter and make Virginia believe he is poor in order to win her. Both are very happy until Virginia comes to believe that Gerry is responsible for a series of robberies that have occurred at fashionable functions. She goes to his apartment but is interrupted by Gerry's valet. Gerry arrives home in time to save Virginia from the wrath of the crooked valet and after the thief is brought to justice, Virginia, convinced of Gerry's innocence, promises to marry him.
The philosophical underpinnings of the third act suggest a worldview that is standard for its genre yet executed with high professional polish. This is not just a commercial product; it is a piece of art that invites discussion long after the credits have finished rolling.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Under Suspicion (1918) is overwhelmingly negative. With an audience rating of 0/10 and strong performance metrics in the Comedy, Mystery categories, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Whether you choose to experience it for the stellar performances from Francis X. Bushman, Beverly Bayne, Eva Gordon or the visual majesty of its technical execution, Under Suspicion is a significant contribution to the cinema of 1918. It represents the kind of filmmaking that movieMx is proud to champion—original, bold, and ultimately, deeply human.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Under Suspicion has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 0/10, and global collection metrics, Under Suspicion stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1918 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Under Suspicion movie hit or flop?
Under Suspicion is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is Under Suspicion worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, Under Suspicion may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Under Suspicion online?
Under Suspicion may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Explore More Verdicts
Synopsis
Gerry Simpson (Bushman) meets newspaper reporter Virginia Blake (Bayne) and, after learning that she has no use for the idle rich, decides to become a reporter and make Virginia believe he is poor in order to win her. Both are very happy until Virginia comes to believe that Gerry is responsible for a series of robberies that have occurred at fashionable functions. She goes to his apartment but is interrupted by Gerry's valet. Gerry arrives home in time to save Virginia from the wrath of the crooked valet and after the thief is brought to justice, Virginia, convinced of Gerry's innocence, promises to marry him.