The Valentine Girl

Marion, a young girl, is given up by her guardian to be raised by her father who has a criminal past. Under the enchanting influence of his daughter, he renounces his life of crime. However, a former partner frames him for a robbery he did not commit, and he is sent to prison. The distraught Marion runs away and upon taking refuge in a church, she is eventually adopted by the kindly clergyman's family. As the years pass, Marion grows into a young woman who becomes engaged. When her father is finally released , he seeks his ashamed daughter's forgiveness and explains being sent to prison on false charges. He wins the sympathy of Marion and along with her fiancés, a happy ending prevails for all.

Directed by J. Searle Dawley, The Valentine Girl leans on a strong ensemble — Marguerite Clark, Frank Losee, Richard Barthelmess — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1917.