A Corner in Wheat (1909)

68% of users liked it
(87 ratings)

A greedy tycoon decides, on a whim, to corner the world market in wheat. This doubles the price of bread, forcing the grain's producers into charity lines and further into poverty. The film continues to contrast the ironic differences between the lives of those who work to grow the wheat and the… More A greedy tycoon decides, on a whim, to corner the world market in wheat. This doubles the price of bread, forcing the grain's producers into charity lines and further into poverty. The film continues to contrast the ironic differences between the lives of those who work to grow the wheat and the life of the man who dabbles in its sale for profit.

Rating, Runtime: G, 1 hr. 58 min.
Directed By: D.W. Griffith
Genres: Drama, Classics, Special Interest

In Theaters: Dec 13, 1909 Wide

No Critic Reviews Found…

Featured Audience Ratings

KJ P

One of D.W. griffith's most memorable short films about the price raise on bread in a town that can already barely afford their wheat to begin with. As townspeople come up with a brilliant ideas and prove action against this awful dispute, a lot can be taken from this… More
One of D.W. griffith's most memorable short films about the price raise on bread in a town that can already barely afford their wheat to begin with. As townspeople come up with a brilliant ideas and prove action against this awful dispute, a lot can be taken from this seemed-to-be basic storyline. The silent acting is fantastic, the story seems to become complex as it is told; However, it is easily understood. This is exactly what short films need to be nowadays. Sure it can be confusing and there is not enough detail about what is really going on, but the real focus is how much appreciation you can have for this magnificent director.
Matthew Y

I've actually seen this. Doorman where's my prize? What can I say, it is what it is a quick little 10 minute short with a message of imperialism and industry taking advantage of the working class by needlessly jacking up the price of wheat. No famous imagery or historical… More
I've actually seen this. Doorman where's my prize? What can I say, it is what it is a quick little 10 minute short with a message of imperialism and industry taking advantage of the working class by needlessly jacking up the price of wheat. No famous imagery or historical significance it's amazing it's avoided falling into obscurity after all these years.
Alice S

Uses a variety of technics and orchestrates them beautifully to serve the idea of the film, but more on the emotional than aesthetical level.