A Universal Pictures Release
January 1928 - 7 Reels
Directed by Edward Sloman

FEATURED CAST
Jean Hersholt
June Marlowe (as Nancy)
Ralph Graves
and
Myrtle Stedman

Alias The Deacon was based upon a stage play and the film was directed by Edward Sloman, who would direct June in a total of three films for Universal.  In this, June plays a runaway who dresses as a boy to escape harassment while riding the rails with a group of hobos.  She is soon discovered but is saved by the efforts of her about-to-be love interest, played by Ralph Graves.

As the film unfolds, Ralph and June's characters are put to the test in various ways while staying at a nearby town.  Enter "The Deacon," played by Jean Hersholt, who would eventually save the day with his wily gambling ways.  (Jean Herscholt and June would remain close friends until his death in 1956).

A scene from the film's climax. Myrtle Stedman and June.

Some critics enjoyed the performances but not the film.  Others, like The New York Times and Harrison's Reports enjoyed the entire package.  Of June, Variety said "June Marlowe did nicely in a small way as the runaway girl."  P. S. Harrison of Harrison's Reports, of whom I suspect was an admirer of June's (he really liked this film), said "(June Marlowe) is so sweet and charming..." and "..June Marlowe is a pleasing heroine."

Ralph Graves and June (in costume of course).

Hmm, let's see...  Why, I bet June's next role is that of a young innocent!  Guess what?  It is!

Middle photograph courtesy of Scott Johnson
Bottom photograph is from the collection of Don Spears.

This film, once available through Universal's "Show At Home" rental program, is unavailable for viewing.