Watch Broken Blossoms-1919

Broken Blossoms is a 1919 silent film directed by D.W. Griffith and starring Arthur Margetson and C.V. France. The film is based on a short story titled "The Chink and the Child" by Thomas Burke. The film is set in London's Limehouse district and follows the poor Chinese immigrant, Cheng Huan (Arthur Margetson), who opens a shop in the area. Cheng is a kind-hearted man who practices Buddhism and believes in non-violence.

One day, Cheng stumbles upon a young girl, Lucy (Lillian Gish), who is being beaten by her father, Battling Burrows (Donald Crisp), a former boxer who is now an alcoholic. Cheng takes Lucy into his shop and cares for her. Lucy, who is abused regularly by her father, finds solace in Cheng's kind and gentle presence. Cheng, too, develops an attachment to the girl and becomes deeply concerned about her well-being.

As Cheng and Lucy's relationship grows, they find themselves falling in love with each other. At the same time, Lucy's father becomes jealous of Cheng and violently lashes out at him. Cheng, who has always believed in non-violence, refuses to retaliate and instead suffers in silence. However, the violence only increases, and the story takes a tragic turn.

The film is a poignant tale of love, sacrifice, and heartbreak. The cinematography in the film is beautiful, capturing the gritty and bleak atmosphere of Limehouse, as well as the tenderness between Cheng and Lucy. Griffith's direction is masterful, and the film's message of love and compassion is timeless.

The performances in the film are exceptional, particularly that of Lillian Gish. Gish, who was already a star of the silent screen, delivers a powerful and moving portrayal of Lucy. Her ability to convey deep emotion through her facial expressions is extraordinary. Arthur Margetson, playing the role of Cheng, is equally captivating. His portrayal of the gentle and compassionate immigrant is executed with great sensitivity.

Donald Crisp, who plays Battling Burrows, also delivers a strong performance as the abusive and volatile father. His portrayal of the character is both frightening and heartbreaking.

The film's themes of racism and xenophobia are also worth noting. At the time of the film's release, Chinese immigrants were often portrayed in a negative light in popular culture. Broken Blossoms, however, seeks to dispel these stereotypes by presenting Cheng as a kind and gentle person who practices non-violence.

In conclusion, Broken Blossoms is a classic piece of cinema that has stood the test of time. Its themes of love, compassion, and non-violence are as relevant today as they were a century ago. The film's stunning cinematography, exceptional performances, and powerful message make it a must-watch for any film buff.