French Heels (1922): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1922, French Heels is a comedy, war and romance film directed by Edwin L. Hollywood. “ALMA MAY, like the Irene Castle of real life, was the brightest figure in New York's brightest night life. And then Lieut. John Tabor came into her life and carried her way to his father's lu” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. Returning from France after the war, John Tabor informs Palma May of her brother's death and offers the penniless girl his help, but she refuses it, preferring to work as a cabaret dancer. Later, John and Palma meet again, marry, and go west to manage a lumber camp, as instructed by John's wealthy father, Jarvis Tabor. Displeased by John's choice of wife, the elder Tabor tests the couple with difficult living conditions, which eventually discourage Palma, and she accepts the party invitation of Keith Merwyn, manager of the cabaret where she starred. Meanwhile, Merwyn effects a disturbance among the lumbermen, endangering John.

Who’s in it. French Heels stars Irene Castle as Palma May, Ward Crane as Lieutenant John Tabor, Charles K. Gerrard as Keith Merwyn (as Charles Gerard) and Howard Truesdale as Jarvis Tabor, among others.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch French Heels page.

If you liked it. Fans of French Heels tend to enjoy Forrest Gump, Parasite, Life Is Beautiful and Fight Club.