The movie is a childhood memory, and a well remembered one. I think its a underrated little jewel from the 50s, well executed for the time and set in an interesting historical period. I appreciate the movie for being the only (western) adventure movie set in Mongol expansion period I ever came across and it got me interested in this particular historical period for live. Although not very accurate on historical details it gives an overall good impression of the time. Orson Welles playing Mongol general Bayan as quick-witted, educated and tolerant, though ruthless, forms the acting highlight of the movie. Although other roles don't stand by their acting the collection of characters presented is quite amusing. The movie stands out from other adventure movies of the period by avoiding a clear hero and villain patterns, most characters are ambiguous. The plot is the weakest point of the movie, covering a storyline spanning years and stretching from England to China it simply tries to compress too much into its 120min. Watching it as a lineup of historical scenes during quite fascinating times makes it enjoyable nevertheless.
Review of The Black Rose
