Rómula

Period piece based on the novel by George Eliot. And what a period piece it is! MGM must have spent a ton of money recreating the costumes, atmosphere and architecture of 15th century Florence. The detail is meticulous and lends the feeling of a modern production taking place 6 centuries ago.

I have not read the book but I wonder if it reads better than it translates to the big screen. The film is long - longer than most films of the silent era, and at times tends toward tedium. In fact, it is downright dull in spots, and those spots overtake those of interest. Makes you think it could have a used a little heavier hand in the cutting room. The cast is excellent, and once again William Powell plays the villain of the piece and steals the show. The Gish sisters never looked more attractive, especially Dorothy. Ronald Colman was stalwart but overshadowed by Powell. On whole, it is entertaining and sumptuously mounted but be aware of above-mentioned lapses in the narrative. Shown at Capitolfest, Rome NY 8/18.

7/10 - The website no longer prints my star rating.