City Lights stands as one of the most beloved films of the silent era, released at a time when “talkies” had already taken over Hollywood. Charlie Chaplin’s insistence on keeping the film silent—save for a synchronized musical score—was seen as a major risk, but it paid off handsomely.

Plot

The Tramp encounters a beautiful blind flower girl who mistakes him for a wealthy gentleman. Smitten, he decides to let her believe the fantasy while secretly working to earn money for an operation that could restore her sight. Along the way, he befriends an alcoholic millionaire whose friendship only exists when drunk.

Technical Innovation

Despite being a “silent” film, Chaplin composed and conducted the entire musical score himself. The film features a synchronized soundtrack that perfectly complements the visual comedy and emotional beats.

The Ending

The film’s final scene—where the flower girl, her sight restored, finally sees the true identity of her benefactor—is widely considered one of the most moving moments in cinema history.