Back Pay (1922): cast, story & where to watch
1922 · Film · ★ 6.2
Released in 1922, Back Pay is a drama film directed by Frank Borzage, running about 90 minutes. “The woman pays — but what part of the reckoning does she owe?” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. This 1922 Frank Borzage film is a masterwork waiting to be rediscovered. Hester Bevins is a simple country girl who yearns for adventure. Though she has a handsome young man, Jerry, who is devoted to her, she leaves her village and goes to New York in search of a grander life. There she becomes the lover of a wealthy and unscrupulous businessman. But when Jerry returns blinded and dying from the war, Hester must choose between her new life and the man whose loyalty to her has never failed.
Who’s in it. Back Pay stars Seena Owen as Hester Bevins, Matt Moore as Jerry Newcombe, J. Barney Sherry as Charles G. Wheeler and Ethel Duray as Kitty, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.2/10, Back Pay has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Back Pay page.
If you liked it. Fans of Back Pay tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Back Pay (1922)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Back Pay change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Back Pay worth watching?
- Back Pay holds an audience score of 6.2 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Back Pay?
- Back Pay stars Seena Owen, Matt Moore, J. Barney Sherry, Ethel Duray and Charles Craig.