Top 300 Silent Era Films

When Johnnie is discharged from military service because the army would rather have him as an engineer, his beloved Annabelle thinks he didn't go to war out of cowardice. Johnnie will have a chance to prove himself when Annabelle is kidnapped inside The General, the train he attends to. The film is full of hilarious stunts and physical comedy, including one of the most famous scenes in cinema history: a thrilling chase sequence involving a locomotive and a burning bridge.

In the futuristic city of Metropolis, divided between the privileged elite and the oppressed workers, Freder and Maria strive to bridge the class division and unite the city. This groundbreaking German expressionist sci-fi film, based on von Harbou's 1925 novel, explores themes of inequality and compassion. The film profound influence on the genre and its thought-provoking exploration of social issues, make it an essential viewing experience that will leave a lasting impact.

A vacationing woman from the city lingers in a lakeside town, seducing a farmer who lives with his wife and child. She convinces him to sell his struggling farm and join her in the city, but when he brings up his wife, she suggests that he drowns her. Although initially reluctant, he agrees and takes his wife on a boat ride with ill intentions. Will he go through with the sinister plan, or will his old love get the better of him?

This movie marks a timeless masterpiece in Charlie Chaplin's cinematic journey, showcasing his iconic Little Tramp character. This silent gem explores the story of a destitute man who finds his heart captured by a blind flower girl and inadvertently leads her to believe he's a wealthy suitor. "City Lights" stands as the pinnacle of Chaplin's artistry and a crowning achievement in the realm of silent comedy, always a cherished classic.

In the haunting streets of a German town, Count Orlok, a terrifying vampire, preys on victims. As the townsfolk fall victim to a mysterious and deadly plague, panic ensues, and fear takes hold of all. Directed by F. W. Murnau, this unauthorized adaptation weaves an eerie symphony of horror, captivating audiences with its unique take on Dracula. It is a moving exploration of darkness that rises as a timeless masterpiece.

This Charlie Chaplin's laugh-filled journey set in the gold rush of the 1890s, in which The Little Tramp, seeks his own fortune against the stunning backdrop of Alaska. But his adventure takes a turn when he seeks shelter in a bandit's cabin during a snowstorm and, without expecting it, falls head over heels in love with the lovely Georgia. A true gem of classic cinema full of love and comedy that demonstrates Chaplin's genius and introduces us to the iconic character of the Little Tramp.

After leading the French forces in victorious battles against the English, Joan of Arc is arrested by the church that wants to force her to admit that she is not on a divine mission. This silent film masterpiece is an emotional portrayal of a historical figure's struggle and a must-see for fans of classic cinema.

Francis and his friend Alan are drawn to a disturbing exhibit where the enigmatic Dr. Caligari exhibits Cesare, a sleepwalker, briefly awakening him from his eternal death-like sleep. However, when a series of crimes follow, a shadow of suspicion is cast over the hypnotist's arrival. Directed by Robert Wiene, this masterpiece of silent cinema not only captivates with its chilling atmosphere and cinematography, but stands as a pioneer of expressionist cinema, leaving an indelible mark on the history of horror.

This film portrays the Russian Revolution of 1905, when the crew of the battleship Potemkin rebelled against the oppressive regime of the ship's officers, leading to a dramatic event where mass solidarity provoked brutal police repression. Considered a milestone of cinema, this masterpiece contains Sergei Eisenstein's masterful editing that not only captured the intensity of the rebellion, but immortalized it in history.

John McTeague's quiet life in San Francisco changes when he falls for Trina Sieppe, who buys a lottery ticket and later wins $5,000. Trina's former fiancé, Marcus, initially steps aside for McTeague but later feels betrayed by the newfound wealth. As Trina hoards the money, McTeague loses all he has due to Marcus's jealousy. Poverty and desperation drive McTeague to extremes in a confrontation over the money.

Lulu is an ambitious woman who uses her sensuality to attract men and take advantage of them. Uninhibited and seductive, the exploitation of her charms also leads to dangers and misfortunes that burst into her destiny in a dark and unexpected way.

At twenty-one, John Sims moves to New York City, determined to make a name for himself. He lands a job at an insurance company and, during a double date to Coney Island, meets Mary, whom he marries shortly after. Their marriage faces numerous challenges, including family conflicts, financial struggles, and personal disappointments. Despite these hardships, John continues to dream of success, even as life in the impersonal city tests his resilience.

Innocent, naive Letty Mason moves from her Virginia home to Sweet Water on the western prairies to live on the ranch of her cousin Beverly, his wife Cora, and their three children. Letty quickly learns how inhospitable the environment in Sweet Water is, the most obvious item being the incessant wind. But equally inhospitable are the unrefined way the people in Sweet Water live, to which she is unaccustomed, and Cora, who believes Letty has come to steal Beverly from her. As such, Cora orders Letty out of her and Bev's house. With no money, Letty is forced to accept one of the marriage proposals she receives--from Bev and Cora's ranching neighbor Lige Hightower, whom she doesn't love. Despite a less-than-harmonious start, partly due to Letty's isolation as the wind too often forces her to stay inside, she starts to feel affection for Lige, who wants to do right by her and promises to send her back to Virginia when he is financially able. But a visitor who takes refuge in their house away from the wind threatens Letty's ultimate happiness.

This biopic traces the formative years of Napoleon Bonaparte, from his schooldays at Brienne College to his early military career. Displaying tactical genius from a young age, he leads a victorious fight. As revolutionary fervor sweeps France, Napoleon rises through the ranks. The film portrays his strategic brilliance, political acumen, and complex personal life, emphasizing his relentless drive and visionary leadership.

Two brothers, Phil and Ted Stoneman, visit their friends in Piedmont, South Carolina: the family Cameron. This friendship is affected by the Civil War, as the Stonemans and the Camerons must join up in opposite armies. The consequences of the War in their lives are shown in connection to major historical events, like the development of the Civil War itself, Lincoln's assassination, and the birth of the Ku Klux Klan.