Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

In what was already the fourth film adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's short novel, King Baggot essays the dual role under the direction of Herbert Brenon. At three reels, it's mostly a highlights version, suitable for local censors. Hyde's depredations seem limited to attacking a a lame boy. Much is made of his cowardice.

Stevenson's works have been and continue to be popular for screen adaptations. A new version of this story shows up every couple of years, and of course, Treasure Island and Kidnapped are popular subjects, as well as many of his short stories. Strong story-telling helps, as well as his outsized characters, often garnering awards nominations for actors. Part of his popularity can be attributed to the timing of his career; he died in 1894 just as movies were coming in, and film makers were familiar wit the books, which remain in print even today. This version is very good for 1913, and remains watchable today.