The actress Janet Gaynor, playing "Diane," possesses a quality reminiscent of a delicate porcelain figurine in this charming story about a young girl saved from her sister’s abuse by “Chico” (Charles Farrell), a handsome sewer worker with aspirations of becoming a street washer. When the police come to take her away, he declares she's his wife, and they are forced to live together while the authorities investigate and confirm this—and ensure she isn't involved in prostitution. Initially hesitant and distrustful, they slowly develop feelings for each other until the draft calls young Frenchmen to fight against the approaching German forces. He must depart to protect his nation; meanwhile, she faces unwanted advances from "Col. Brissac" (Ben Bard). The storyline is uncomplicated and direct, guiding us through a captivating experience as the couple discovers their strengths, questions some of their established beliefs—especially regarding faith—and confronts the repercussions of war. The actors’ connection shines through, enhanced by a beautiful musical score and intimate camerawork from Frank Borzage. There are also moments of levity, particularly stemming from the significant height difference between them, along with Albert Gran as the grumpy "Papa Boul" and David Butler as his neighbor “Gobin,” who resides next door across a rather unstable wooden plank. The title cards appear at just the right times to help us understand what’s being said, but mostly we are allowed to simply appreciate the story itself—and I certainly felt it was time well spent.
On September 23, 2026
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