All of a Sudden Norma (1919): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1919, All of a Sudden Norma is a comedy and drama film directed by Howard Hickman, running about 50 minutes.

What it’s about. Norma Brisbane has a taste for the finer things in life, but learns after her father's suicide that she is penniless. Resolved to recover her fortune in the easiest manner possible, Norma poses as the wife of her silly but wealthy suitor, Cuthbert Van Zelt, and soon she is invited to a number of lavish social affairs. At one such party, Norma steals the Duke of Duffield's family jewels but replaces them upon learning that they are made of paste. Next, she bets the duke that his jewels are fake and thereby wins a large sum of money. The duke persuades Norma to secure some old love letters from the man who is blackmailing him, Emerson Trent. After accomplishing this task, Norma discovers that Trent is not only the man who ruined her father, but the uncle of the man she loves, Oliver Garrett. Impressed by her courage, Trent promises to make amends, and Norma, her financial worries ended, marries Oliver.

Who’s in it. All of a Sudden Norma stars Bessie Barriscale as Norma Brisbane, Joseph J. Dowling as Hamilton Brisbane, Albert R. Cody as Cuthbert Van Zelt and R. Henry Grey as Oliver Garrett, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 7.0/10, All of a Sudden Norma has been warmly received by audiences.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch All of a Sudden Norma page.

If you liked it. Fans of All of a Sudden Norma tend to enjoy Forrest Gump, Parasite, Life Is Beautiful and Fight Club.