Man in the Iron Mask, The (1939)
*** (out of 4)
During the 17th century France, King Louis XIII has twin sons but one is given away to his favorite musketeer, D'Artagnan (Warren William). The kept son grows up to be the evil King Louis IV (Louis Hayward) while the other grows up as the charming and kind hearted Philippe (Hayward). This Dumas tale is a very good looking film but I don't think it's a complete success and considering the director I have to call the movie an overall disappointment. Again, it's far from a bad movie and in fact it's a good one but when James Whale is your director I expect a little more. I was somewhat surprised to see how un-Whale like this movie was as we didn't get any of his typical style or humor. I think the movie could have used some of the humor as it pretty much stays away from the action and focuses on the romantic side of things with the future Queen played by Joan Bennett. The costume design and set design are both top notch as there's certainly a lot of eye candy on display. The performances are also a major plus, although I must admit to not caring too much for Hayward in the role of Louis. I thought he was much better at playing the charmer. William delivers a fine performance as does Bennett. Both Peter Cushing and Dwight Frye are in the film but I didn't spot either. In the end this is a handsome production but it's doubtful I'd ever go back and give it a second viewing.
*** (out of 4)
During the 17th century France, King Louis XIII has twin sons but one is given away to his favorite musketeer, D'Artagnan (Warren William). The kept son grows up to be the evil King Louis IV (Louis Hayward) while the other grows up as the charming and kind hearted Philippe (Hayward). This Dumas tale is a very good looking film but I don't think it's a complete success and considering the director I have to call the movie an overall disappointment. Again, it's far from a bad movie and in fact it's a good one but when James Whale is your director I expect a little more. I was somewhat surprised to see how un-Whale like this movie was as we didn't get any of his typical style or humor. I think the movie could have used some of the humor as it pretty much stays away from the action and focuses on the romantic side of things with the future Queen played by Joan Bennett. The costume design and set design are both top notch as there's certainly a lot of eye candy on display. The performances are also a major plus, although I must admit to not caring too much for Hayward in the role of Louis. I thought he was much better at playing the charmer. William delivers a fine performance as does Bennett. Both Peter Cushing and Dwight Frye are in the film but I didn't spot either. In the end this is a handsome production but it's doubtful I'd ever go back and give it a second viewing.