The Flashlight is a 1917 American silent drama film directed by Ida May Park and starring Lon Chaney, Dorothy Phillips and William Stowell.

[2] Photographer Jack Lane heads for the mountains to try out his new camera which is capable of automatically snapping photos of any wild animal that passes by its lens.

When Jack develops it, he sees a picture of a beautiful young girl running through the woods, carrying a rifle.

Stealing a canoe, Jack furiously paddles down river pursued by a group of local townspeople who want to lynch him.

It is a pleasing picture, almost all of the action taking place out of doors in a wooded country...With its flavor of adventure and mystery, and with its refreshing locations, this offering should find favor with any audience which likes pretty plays, well directed and well acted.

--- Motography "Armed with an unusual story and with a company of capable players and staff, Miss Parks has gone into the wilds of the Sierra Nevadas and succeeded in filming a virile story in the most beautiful settings imaginable...William Stowell is a worthy support to Miss Phillips, as are also Lon Chaney, who plays a dual role; Alfred Allen and George Berrill."