The Beloved Rogue (1927)

8 stars as a movie, 5 as history.I wish the movies, when based on history and actual people, are a bit more researched. The story, except a few parts goes too far away from the history. Lois XI has been shown to be blindly dependent on the astrologers his actual state-crafts and the intrigues (for which he was called spider) are totally negated. In fact his physical characteristics were made like a spider. His reforms, his bonhomie with the common men too were completely overlooked. Lois XI was historically too different and supposed to be a far better person, from the caricature that is shown. Villon too is another historical figure, but again his life (especially the end) doesn't match with history, nor does the fate of Charles, the Duke Of Burgundy. It could have been better if he hadn't attended the ceremony since the fictionalized Count and fictionalized Charlotte's story won't have hurt the history. Of course the relation between Lois and Charles are real, as was between Villon and Lois (who had a very kind disposition towards Villon). Even the end (of Villon) isn't right, since Villon in reality had simply disappeared from public (undoubtedly dead, but as an unknown person). The only facts are Charles, Duke of Burgundy's enmity to Lois, Villon's being close and loyal to the King (Lois) and his much more than what is shown bohemian life. If I leave the historical aspects and treat it just as a movie - not based on real people - I give it 8 stars. Merceline Day looked gorgeous, JB was of course a consummate actor, a bit theatrical on today's standard, but I have to look at the trend then and also remember it is a silent movie, so a bit of over-expression is required. Conrad as Lois XI had been creepy (as this story called for). So over all as a fiction movie it is enjoyable.But knowing that this is as well as an historical movie, the stars go down due to blatant contradiction with facts. Just as a footnote - I didn't know even a century back (the last scene), the population control was a hot, though not to be taken too seriously, subject.

A loose retelling of the legend of French poet, pickpocket, prankster extraordinaire & patriot Francois Villon. Twenty-five years after his father is executed by English occupiers, Villon manages, while being crowned "King of Fools" during All Fools Day, to offend the visiting (& secretly conquering) Duke of Burgundy. The Duke contacts the weak-willed French king Louis XI, telling him to get rid of Villon. Louis agrees, banishing Villon out of Paris. But Villon is nothing if not stubborn & attempts to defeat the English invaders whilst winning the heart of the king's beautiful ward Charlotte.The Beloved Rogue is a delightful piece of history-telling adventure film from the silent era. The film stars John Barrymore, who does a remarkable job of playing the legendary French prankster-in-chief & patriot Francois Villon. The film is silent so most modern audiences might find it antiquated but the film's pace never lags. Villon is a master of improvised escapes, leaping from rooftops & hiding in snow-covered hay bales, as well as standing up for the French & stopping the English from taking over Paris. A beautifully remarkable film.

This film is a good start for novices that have never watched a 'Silent Film' and for those who believe that quality Cinema started with their generations efforts. They are doing a disservice to themselves by not expanding their horizons. The 'Silent Film' is a art-form of acting in pantomime that is different from the sound film and the stage, it can stands on it's own merits.THE BELOVED ROGUE (1927) United Artists is a fictionalized history of the relationship of French Poet 'Francois Villon' and 'King Louis XI'. Through 'Villons' prodding 'King Louis' will defeat his nemesis 'Duke of Burgandy' minimize the Feudal System and establish the KING as head of the State and the beginnings of modern France.The cast is exceptional, lead by JOHN BARRYMORE (yes, Drew's GrandFather). For those who only remember him for the decaying actor 'Larry Renault' in DINNER AT EIGHT (1933) or the ham in THE INVISABLE WOMEN (1940) this will be a revelation. Fit, trim with the 'Great Profile' still in evidence he commands the screen. Co-Starring in his first American film is CONRAD VEIDT with his 'cadaverous spider' interpretation of 'Louis XI'. This is a duel of acting titans, each not giving the other a inch. On a trivia note is Character Actor and Dwarf ANGELO ROSSITTO in his first film, his last, MAD MAX BEYOND THUNDERDOME (1985). There are other character actors who would continue in sound that are easily picked up on. United Artists spared no expense in this handsome production supervised by WILLIAM CAMERON MENZIES. Costumes, Props and Sets are well done and not exaggerated like in a DOUGLAS FAIRBANKS productions. There is a touch of reality here. The copy on DVD that we watched from 'Delta Entertainment' came from a good master. Though not 'restored' its musical soundtrack was clear and the print only suffered from nuisance black-spots (dirt) and drop-outs. The only major damage at the end of the last reel from water. 'Kino' also has a edition which may be of a better quality since they do major restorations on their prints. Best check with them. In our opinion this is a 'must have' particularly if you have no 'silents' in your collection. This is a good place to start.

And nothing wrong in that! Heartily endorse the comments of boblipton and Snow Leopard.I'm thrilled to find this movie is available on US DVD - I've only ever seen it through once - I persuaded the Goethe Institute here in London to show it in their Conrad Veidt season some years ago - and long to see it again.Barrymore is resplendent when engaged, as in this movie, possibly because of the prick of having a renowned German actor as a foil. And Veidt is such a wonderful scene stealer (doesn't he pick his nose at one point?) This is one of the seminal films to connect 'Dr Jekyll' with '20th Century', 'Grand Hotel' or 'Midnight'; and 'The Cabinet of Dr Caligari' or 'The Student of Prague' with 'The Spy in Bladk', 'Contraband' and 'Casablanca'.See it!