Play Square (1921): cast, story & where to watch
1921 · Film · ★ 8

Released in 1921, Play Square is a crime and drama film directed by William K. Howard, running about 50 minutes.
What it’s about. Johnny Carroll joins a gang of thieves and is arrested by Detective McQuade for picking Judge Kerrigan's pocket. However, the judge remembers Johnny from his hometown of Meadville, and persuades him to reform. The young man returns home, takes a job in a grocery store, and renews his romance with Betty Bedford. Later, Johnny's former gang arrive in town and again try to recruit him. They induce him to crack the safe in Mr. Bedford's store, threatening to reveal his criminal past if he refuses. Upon opening the safe, Johnny refuses to be a party to the crime and fights the gang. Betty hears the commotion and returns with help. After the thieves are captured, Johnny and Betty are married.
Who’s in it. Play Square stars Johnnie Walker as Johnny Carroll, Edna Murphy as Betty Bedford, Hayward Mack as Bill Homer and Laura La Plante as May Laverne, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 8.0/10, Play Square sits among the best-reviewed titles in the catalogue.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Play Square page.
If you liked it. Fans of Play Square tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, The Godfather Part II and The Dark Knight.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Play Square (1921)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Play Square change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Play Square worth watching?
- Play Square holds an audience score of 8.0 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy crime and drama. Most viewers rate it highly.
- Who stars in Play Square?
- Play Square stars Johnnie Walker, Edna Murphy, Hayward Mack, Laura La Plante and Wilbur Higby.
- When was Play Square released?
- Play Square was released in 1921, with a runtime of about 50 minutes.