City Lights
Recommended. Age: 8+. A Catholic review of this movie for parents.
Our review
A poor man called the Tramp meets a blind girl who sells flowers. He works hard and gives up everything so she can see again. It is a funny and tender silent movie for kids about eight and up. This is self-giving love with no reward in view. The Tramp gives the girl her sight knowing she may not want him once she sees him. Parents should expect a rich man who tries to drown himself while drunk, a good deal of comic drinking, and a kind lie the Tramp never corrects.
For parents
Common Sense Media says 8 and up, and Lumen agrees. It is silent with title cards, so younger children need a reader beside them. Three things to frame. The millionaire tries to end his life while drunk and the scene is played for laughs. Tell children plainly that life is a gift and that a despairing person needs help. The drinking is constant and includes drunk driving. And the Tramp lets the girl believe he is rich. Ask: was it right to let her think so? Why does the millionaire only know his friend when drunk? What does the Tramp give up, and what does he get back? Who really sees him?