The Toll of the Sea, directed by Chester M. Franklin and released in 1922, is recognized as the first general release film to utilize two-tone Technicolor. The film stars Anna May Wong, an iconic figure in early cinema and one of the first Asian American actresses to achieve fame in Hollywood. The development of two-tone Technicolor was a groundbreaking innovation in the film industry, developing from the earlier black-and-white films by adding color, thus broadening the visual possibilities for filmmakers and enhancing the audience's experience.

Set in a romantic narrative that intertwines themes of love, sacrifice, and cultural tension, The Toll of the Sea tells the story of a Chinese woman living in a predominantly Western society, highlighting issues of identity and belonging. The film's eye-catching color sequences were a major technological advancement at the time, capturing stunning seascapes and vibrant costumes, which added depth to the storytelling. Although The Gulf Between had been the first film to use Technicolor, it did not receive a wide release, making The Toll of the Sea the first of its kind to gain broad exposure to moviegoers across the United States.

The premiere took place in Los Angeles and garnered attention from both the public and critics, sparking discussions about the potential of color in films. The film's visual style not only set a precedent for future filmmakers but also reflected broader trends in art and design during the early 20th century, where color began playing an increasingly important role in various forms of media. As the film industry continued to evolve, it ultimately laid the groundwork for subsequent color technologies that dominated cinema in later decades.