I've finally had the pleasure of watching this lovely film on YouTube two days ago. While I like, and to a certain extent even love, Joan Crawford's acting, I confess that I only watched this film because it featured Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.
But in all honesty, I've wanted to watch this film for about 5 years or so now. I've never had the opportunity to watch it on TCM as it aired during times that I couldn't see it. When I found it on YouTube, I was really ecstatic. I immediately watched it and wasn't disappointed.
I also really enjoyed and loved Mr. Fairbanks' impressions of John Barrymore, John Gilbert, and Robin Hood. He was so funny, entertaining, and fantastic. I especially loved the impressions of Barrymore and the way he imitated his dad by doing Robin Hood. Thus, I was so pleasantly surprised and totally impressed to see that he portrayed Barrymore perfectly. I've never seen John Gilbert's movies, so I can't comment on how Mr. Fairbanks portrayed him. Nevertheless, this scene was truly one of the highlights of the film.
Though, I have to wonder why they called John Gilbert "Jack" Gilbert? Was Jack his nickname or something? I'm curious about that.
Lastly, I didn't much care for Joan's character or Rod La Rocque's character (no offense intended to anyone who liked their characters or chemistry), as much as I cared for Mr. Fairbanks' and Anita's. I was more eager and happy to watch all of Doug's and Anita's scenes together and also loved to watch how their relationship slowly progressed to love. Their dialogue and romantic scenes were so beautiful and lovely. They were definitely, perfectly matched for each other in this movie.
"Let every man be master of his time." -- Macbeth by William Shakespeare
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