An Epic Tale of Lords and Gypsies

Read Time:4 Minute, 10 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Spanish Dancer
–

Genre: Silent Films, Drama, Romance
Year Released: 1923, 2023 Blu-ray from Milestone Film & Video
Runtime: 1h 46m
Director(s): Herbert Brenon
Writer(s): Beulah Marie Dix, Philippe Dumanoir, Victor Hugo
Cast: Pola Negri, Antonio Moreno, Wallace Beery
Where to Watch: Streaming on www.kinonow.com or purchase from www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Great intrigue, sweet romance, and exciting sword fights are sights to be witnessed in the 1923 silent classic THE SPANISH DANCER. Set during a turbulent time between France and Spain, this film spins a tale that brings together kings, queens, nobles, and commoners in a thrilling, funny, and heartbreaking manner that plays out like an intense game of chess. It’ll have you in your seat pondering about what could happen next.

I’d be lying if I were to say that I was especially looking forward to viewing THE SPANISH DANCER. Not because I have anything against silent pictures, but rather that I find that the mood has to strike just right to be able to enjoy one. That mood, however, was simply not striking for me this evening, but this film turned my mind around the second I started it! What I expected and what I received were two completely different things. Everything that was involved in this picture captivated me. The story, the characters, and the surprising amount of comedy.

THE SPANISH DANCER follows Maritana, a Gypsy fortune teller played by Pola Negri (Bella Donna, The Wildcat) who falls madly in love with disgraced nobleman Don Cesar, played by Antonio Moreno (The Creature from the Black Lagoon, The Temptress) after her band of Gypsies perform at a feast that he is throwing. Don Cesar’s assets are all seized because he is indebted, and he goes on the run, eventually running into Maritana again. Having fallen from grace, the noble Don Cesar finds himself on the wrong side of a prison cell after dueling with a city guardsman to defend his and Maritana’s honor. Meanwhile, Maritana has caught the eye of the King of Spain himself, who is being used as a pawn by some nefarious characters who intend to squash a treaty with France. They use Maritana as a way to lure the king away from loving his wife, who is French Royalty. What ensues is a twisting and winding tale of love, attraction, infidelity, and action.

The characters in this film are portrayed so well, with the standouts being Pola Negri and Antonio Moreno. The character Maritana is surprisingly strong and feministic, especially for 1923. She’s practically the leader of this band of gypsies, she knows how to fight, and she’s incredibly independent. Of course, since it is a movie from the 20’s, she does eventually slip into the damsel in distress role, but she got some seriously great screen time here, and she’s very likable. On the other hand, her romantic interest, Don Cesar, was also tremendous. He comes off as the stereotypical intelligent, brave, and brazen hero, but there is some real depth to him. He’s flamboyant and funny in such a way that regardless of everything that is keeping him down, he still wears a smile and takes it with pride. When I look at this character, I see the genesis of a whole lot of other characters that have seemingly drawn inspiration from him. Both Inigo Montoya from The Princess Bride and Zorro immediately spring to mind.

At the end of the day, this silent film didn’t need hundreds of lines of dialog or fancy direction and camera shots to be captivating. While there is nothing wrong with the actual meat and potatoes of the film, as there are some really pretty shots and marvelous set pieces, it’s the remarkable story and charming characters that bring it to life. This is likely a reason as to why it’s never been remade. It’s great that now, because of Milestone Film & Video and Kino Lorber, this wonderful piece of classic cinema can be rediscovered and loved all over again because I feel that this is one movie that you shouldn’t miss.

[photo courtesy of FILM MOVEMENT]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

#SAGAFTRA #WGA #SAGAFTRAStrong #WGAStrong