Watch Lorna Doone

The movie Lorna Doone from 1922 is a silent film adaptation of the classic novel by R.D. Blackmore. The film opens with a shot of the idyllic English countryside, where the story takes place. We see a young girl named Lorna being sold by her mother to a band of outlaws who live in the nearby hills. The outlaws, led by the vicious Carver Doone, plan to use Lorna as bait to lure her wealthy uncle, Sir Ensor Doone, to their hideout.

Meanwhile, John Ridd, a young farmer and athlete, is competing in a wrestling match against a rival village. John is a strapping young man, well-respected in the community, but he longs for something more. When he meets Lorna, he falls instantly in love with her, despite her association with the Doone clan. Lorna is drawn to John's gentle nature and his fierce determination to protect her, even if it means risking his own life.

As John and Lorna begin a secret romance, the tension between the Doones and Sir Ensor's family reaches a boiling point. Sir Ensor, played by Claude Gillingwater, is a proud and haughty man who is determined to protect his family's honor at all costs. When he learns of Lorna's abduction, he assembles a posse to storm the Doone stronghold and free his niece.

The final act of the film is a thrilling battle sequence, with Sir Ensor's men clashing with the Doones in a brutal fight to the death. John and Lorna are caught in the middle of the chaos, and they must fight their way out and escape to safety. In the end, true love triumphs over all, as John and Lorna are reunited and free to live their lives together.

The film is notable for its beautiful cinematography and sweeping panoramic shots of the English countryside. The director, Maurice Tourneur, does an excellent job of capturing the rural charm and pastoral beauty of the setting, while also infusing the film with a sense of gripping drama and intense action. The lead actors, Madge Bellamy and John Bowers, both give strong performances, conveying the passion and intensity of their characters' relationship.

Overall, Lorna Doone is a classic tale of love, adventure, and heroism, brought vividly to life on the silver screen. Despite being nearly a century old, the film still manages to captivate audiences with its timeless themes and stunning visuals. Fans of the novel and silent cinema in general will surely be delighted by this vintage gem.