Way Down East 1920
"A simple story for plain people."
Directed by the legendary D.W. Griffith, *Way Down East (1920)* is a sweeping silent-era drama that follows the harrowing journey of Anna Moore, a trusting young country girl whose life unravels after being deceived into a sham marriage by a charming but deceitful aristocrat.
Director: D.W. Griffith
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Way Down East (1920) about?
*Way Down East* tells the story of Anna Moore, a kind-hearted country girl who becomes the victim of a wealthy seducer's cruel deception. Left to raise her child alone, she faces scorn and abandonment until a chance at love and unexpected kindness offer her a path to reclaim her life.
Who directed Way Down East?
*Way Down East* was directed by D.W. Griffith, the pioneering filmmaker behind iconic silent-era works like *The Birth of a Nation* and *Intolerance*.
Who stars in Way Down East?
The film stars Lillian Gish as Anna Moore, Richard Barthelmess as the steadfast David Bartlett, and Lowell Sherman as the manipulative aristocrat Lennox Sanderson.
Is Way Down East (1920) worth watching?
As a silent-era masterpiece, *Way Down East* is absolutely worth watching for its emotional depth and Griffith's groundbreaking storytelling. Though its themes reflect early 20th-century attitudes, its themes of resilience and societal judgment remain compelling, making it a must-see for classic film enthusiasts.
How long is Way Down East?
*Way Down East* has a runtime of 150 minutes, or 2 hours and 30 minutes.
About Way Down East (1920) — A Silent Classic of Love, Betrayal, and Redemption
Directed by the legendary D.W. Griffith, *Way Down East (1920)* is a sweeping silent-era drama that follows the harrowing journey of Anna Moore, a trusting young country girl whose life unravels after being deceived into a sham marriage by a charming but deceitful aristocrat. Cast out by her community and burdened by the stigma of an illegitimate child, Anna must fight to reclaim her dignity in a world that offers little mercy to fallen women. Griffith masterfully blends romance and heartbreak, crafting a visually poetic yet emotionally raw narrative that lingers long after the final frame.
Lillian Gish delivers a career-defining performance as Anna, her expressive face conveying both fragility and resilience in this tale of societal hypocrisy and redemption. Supported by a strong ensemble including Richard Barthelmess and Lowell Sherman, the film weaves themes of class disparity, moral judgment, and the resilience of the human spirit. With its signature intertitles and breathtaking cinematography, *Way Down East* stands as a testament to Griffith's influence on early cinema and remains a poignant exploration of injustice and perseverance.