As with "The Prisoner of Zenda", the more colorful female role here is actually the second leadin this case the wicked but exciting Milady de Winter, beautifully played by the exotic Barbara La Marr. This is not to say that the main feminine role (enacted by Marguerite De La Motte), does not have its share of excitement. Miss De La Motte shares some wonderful scenes not only with Fairbanks but with Mary MacLaren and Nigel de Brulier (whose study of the ruthless Richelieu is so compelling, he was hired to repeat his impersonation in three more swashbucklers).
Fairbanks, of course, is suitably dashing as D'Artagnan, and his swordplay is certainly impressive throughout an action-full two hours. As producer he has made sure to bring his hero into conflict with many worthy opponents, including de Brulier's cardinal, Boyd Irwin's black count, Lon Poff's gray eminence, and even Adolphe Menjou's weak but self-important Louis.
Three players who do receive short shrift, however, even though they share much footage with our hero, are Palette, Siegmann and Bary, who play the titular musketeers. Here they are so inadequately characterized, they make virtually no impression as individuals at all.
However, if I have to choose between character development and swift pacing, I'll take swift pacing any day!
Fairbanks, of course, is suitably dashing as D'Artagnan, and his swordplay is certainly impressive throughout an action-full two hours. As producer he has made sure to bring his hero into conflict with many worthy opponents, including de Brulier's cardinal, Boyd Irwin's black count, Lon Poff's gray eminence, and even Adolphe Menjou's weak but self-important Louis.
Three players who do receive short shrift, however, even though they share much footage with our hero, are Palette, Siegmann and Bary, who play the titular musketeers. Here they are so inadequately characterized, they make virtually no impression as individuals at all.
However, if I have to choose between character development and swift pacing, I'll take swift pacing any day!