The Law That Divides

John Douglas divorces his wife, taking custody of their son Kenneth and leaving her with their little daughter Kathleen. Mrs. Douglas dies in poverty, and Kathleen falls in with crook Jack Baggot and his wife, who teach her how to pick pockets.

Directed by Howard M. Mitchell, The Law That Divides leans on a strong ensemble — Kathleen Clifford, Kenneth Harlan, Gordon Sackville — 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 1918.