trying to be a good movie...and failing..
Perhaps I'm just missing the subtle nuances of this film, but (I'm watching it right now on TCM) I really think this is the poorest work that I have ever seen with the great R. Coleman!
The sets (nominated for an Oscar, no less!) are, obviously, mock-ups of some pre-conceived idea of what Bagdad was like in its prime. The colors of the costumes are garish! The story reeks of the age in which it was first written. (1910) All of the roles are overplayed, at best. I couldn't believe Marlene Dietrich as a blond! (But of course, he legs were shown off)
Poor, poor Coleman. He tries so very hard in this picture, but one hardly thinks of him as a poor, fast-talking beggar in the Middle East! In most of his roles, he is exceptionally good, and his voice is something to be heard! Too bad he was so wasted on this tripe.
Want to see and buy this movie? Save your money!