... when matters of race enter the equation. That is the theme of this very early talkie that centers on the social dilemma of Sam Lee, college-aged son of a wealthy Chinese-American man. Sam (Richard Barthelmess) is a well-mannered intelligent young man. He looks Caucasian although he doesn't hide his heritage from his friends and associates. That doesn't mean he wears a sign around his neck announcing it either, and he shouldn't have to. This causes misunderstandings with girls he meets who somehow think they've been taken advantage of if Sam as much as dances with them before they know the truth.
He gets tired of this same situation playing out time and time again, leaves school, and goes abroad. There he meets naughty flirt Allana Wagner, a bored wealthy girl who passes her time by breaking hearts. However, Sam's straightforward manner engages her, and soon she is falling for him. Unwilling for history to repeat itself, Sam tries to tell her that he is Chinese, but Allana makes sweeping statements about how nothing matters if they love each other, and poor Sam takes this shallow girl at face value. This sets him up for a very public fall when Allana finds out the truth from her father.
This film is very candid for its time in discussing issues of race and social interaction, and it was headed for a very daring end when the writers, at the last minute, produce a happy ending that pulls what could have been some powerful punches.
This film is well acted by all of the principal players and the leads are well cast, with Barthelmess always doing well as the thoughtful optimistic guy confronted with a world not as kind and well-meaning as himself. Constance Bennett, the girl with the china doll looks that often belies the cynicism and treachery of the characters she plays, is perfect in her part as Allana. Highly recommended.
He gets tired of this same situation playing out time and time again, leaves school, and goes abroad. There he meets naughty flirt Allana Wagner, a bored wealthy girl who passes her time by breaking hearts. However, Sam's straightforward manner engages her, and soon she is falling for him. Unwilling for history to repeat itself, Sam tries to tell her that he is Chinese, but Allana makes sweeping statements about how nothing matters if they love each other, and poor Sam takes this shallow girl at face value. This sets him up for a very public fall when Allana finds out the truth from her father.
This film is very candid for its time in discussing issues of race and social interaction, and it was headed for a very daring end when the writers, at the last minute, produce a happy ending that pulls what could have been some powerful punches.
This film is well acted by all of the principal players and the leads are well cast, with Barthelmess always doing well as the thoughtful optimistic guy confronted with a world not as kind and well-meaning as himself. Constance Bennett, the girl with the china doll looks that often belies the cynicism and treachery of the characters she plays, is perfect in her part as Allana. Highly recommended.