Public Domain Movies | Broken Blossoms

The film follows the story of Cheng Huan (played by Richard Barthelmess), a kind and gentle Chinese man who leaves his homeland to spread the peaceful teachings of Buddha in the West. Cheng arrives in the slums of London's Limehouse district, where he opens a small shop and lives a modest, humble life.

Meanwhile, in the same neighborhood, Lucy Burrows (played by Lillian Gish) lives with her abusive and alcoholic father, Battling Burrows (played by Donald Crisp). Lucy's life is one of hardship and misery as she endures her father's brutal treatment. One day, after a particularly violent episode, Lucy escapes from her home and seeks refuge in Cheng's shop.

Cheng, moved by compassion, takes Lucy in and cares for her. He provides her with a safe haven from her tumultuous home life, and the two form a genuine and innocent friendship. Cheng, who refers to Lucy as his "White Blossom," harbors no romantic intentions but seeks to protect her from the harsh realities of the world.

However, the film takes a tragic turn when Battling Burrows discovers Lucy's whereabouts. Fueled by anger and prejudice, he confronts Cheng, leading to a dramatic and heartbreaking climax (1919).

Director: D.W. Griffith

Stars: Lillian Gish, Richard Barthelmess, Donald Crisp