The Follies Girl on AllMovie

In a clear case of typecasting, former follies girl Olive Thomas has the title role in this comedy-drama. Edward Woodruff (William V. Mong) has been suffering from a long-term illness. His attorney is convinced that it's psychosomatic -- Woodruff has had a life full of unhappiness. His estranged daughter died without ever making up with him, while his grandson, Ned (Wallace MacDonald), has not followed the path Woodruff chose for him. Meanwhile, Nina Leffingwell (Claire McDowell) waits with the other relatives for Woodruff to die. Nina is hoping to marry Ned, a distant cousin of hers, so she can share in the old man's fortune. But the attorney introduces Doll (Thomas) into the Woodruff home, explaining that she is a long-lost granddaughter. Doll, a follies girl, plays her part well and brings her bright and sunny disposition into the home. Woodruff is regenerated by her presence and he recovers. It turns out that she is actually Ned's wife, and since the couple is expecting, the other relatives are left out in the cold.