Cœur fidèle by Jean Epstein (23 November 1923)

Marie, an orphan adopted by a bar-owner and his wife in Marseille, endures a life of relentless exploitation as a servant in their establishment. While pursued by Petit Paul, a violent and idle individual, her affections lie with Jean, a hardworking dockworker. Forced to leave with Petit Paul, Marie's situation deteriorates, but Jean intervenes during a confrontation at a fairground. The altercation results in a policeman being stabbed, leading to Jean's imprisonment while Petit Paul escapes. A year later, Jean reunites with Marie, who is now burdened with a sick child and trapped in a toxic relationship with Petit Paul, who squanders their resources on alcohol. Jean attempts to support Marie, receiving assistance from a disabled neighbor. However, tensions escalate when Petit Paul, alerted by gossip, returns armed to confront Jean. In the struggle, the neighbor seizes the weapon and fatally shoots Petit Paul. In the aftermath, Jean and Marie are finally free to pursue their love, though their experiences have visibly left lasting emotional scars.