Some say that the silent era represents "simpler entertainment for a simpler time," and while that's far from being true across the board, I think this is probably an example of that notion. There's a notable directness in this film at points (not least at the start) that arguably pulls back the curtain on the artificiality of the presentation and places an upper limit on one's enjoyment. This directness is seen in the rather brisk pace that the movie maintains; the more exaggerated expressions and body language of the actors, common in irregular application during the silent era but removed from the more natural and nuanced acting modern viewers are familiar with; instances of a decided bluntness in intertitles representing both exposition and dialogue; and direction and editing that in some cases chops up dialogue between characters by spotlighting close-ups of one and then the other, instead of showing them side by side or face to face. None of this is to say that 'The phantom of the Moulin Rouge' isn't entertaining or worthwhile on its own merits, but I don't think it's out of sorts to suppose that this is best suited for those viewers who are already enamored of the silent era.
Even with such indelicacies or inelegance, there's much to appreciate here, and in fact I think the picture is quite good. The story of Walter Schlee's novel is ripe for telling, and filmmaker René Clair has penned a strong screenplay in adaptation. Though his direction and the pacing generally may be brusque in this instance, the scene writing is firm and fairly detailed as it builds a relatively lighthearted but suitably compelling narrative. To a somewhat ordinary scenario mixing comedy, drama, and romance is added a significant fantastical element, and the famed Moulin Rouge provides a tinge of flavor in its use as a setting. The plot is maybe a little light, and the comedic aspect is not rarely so robust as to specifically be funny, but the title is all that it needs to be to keep us engaged and provide consistent amusement. With this in mind, Robert Gys' sets are pretty fabulous, and the costume design; I appreciate the minor spectacle that the titular establishment represents, even if only in passing, and the climax is excellent. Any stunts and effects that are employed come off quite well, particularly the the apparition. Though I don't agree that all of Clair's choices of editing were ideal, many are, and regardless he demonstrates deft capability in that capacity. Why, for that matter, while the ultimate execution of some moments is a tad curt, mostly I think Clair also illustrates fine skill in orchestrating shots and scenes as director, lending to the entertainment 'The phantom of the Moulin Rouge' has to provide.
The storytelling wavers between pointedly forthright and cleverly restrained, but I believe on the balance that the result is very well done and deserving. The deliberate withholding and dispensation of plot is unexpectedly witty, making the approximate second half discernibly more sharp and vibrant in the process. The cast's contributions are constrained somewhat by the fleet-footed build, but still I think all give able performances to bring the tableau to life. To be honest, I kind of had mixed expectations before I sat for it, and even after I first pressed "play." Yet while the feature isn't without its weaknesses, by and large I had a great time watching. Undue terseness in the construction is outweighed by the more substantial intelligence of the writing and the labor from behind the scenes, producing a tale that's sprightly, mirthful, and fun, with sufficient drama to propel the proceedings. This 1925 movie may be uneven with various faults, but the sum total is much more sturdy than not, serving up a rich and reasonably engrossing viewing experience. Those who have a hard time abiding older cinema may not find anything here to change their minds, but for those with a taste for the classics I believe 'The phantom of the Moulin Rouge' holds up well, and is very much worth checking out if one has the opportunity.
Even with such indelicacies or inelegance, there's much to appreciate here, and in fact I think the picture is quite good. The story of Walter Schlee's novel is ripe for telling, and filmmaker René Clair has penned a strong screenplay in adaptation. Though his direction and the pacing generally may be brusque in this instance, the scene writing is firm and fairly detailed as it builds a relatively lighthearted but suitably compelling narrative. To a somewhat ordinary scenario mixing comedy, drama, and romance is added a significant fantastical element, and the famed Moulin Rouge provides a tinge of flavor in its use as a setting. The plot is maybe a little light, and the comedic aspect is not rarely so robust as to specifically be funny, but the title is all that it needs to be to keep us engaged and provide consistent amusement. With this in mind, Robert Gys' sets are pretty fabulous, and the costume design; I appreciate the minor spectacle that the titular establishment represents, even if only in passing, and the climax is excellent. Any stunts and effects that are employed come off quite well, particularly the the apparition. Though I don't agree that all of Clair's choices of editing were ideal, many are, and regardless he demonstrates deft capability in that capacity. Why, for that matter, while the ultimate execution of some moments is a tad curt, mostly I think Clair also illustrates fine skill in orchestrating shots and scenes as director, lending to the entertainment 'The phantom of the Moulin Rouge' has to provide.
The storytelling wavers between pointedly forthright and cleverly restrained, but I believe on the balance that the result is very well done and deserving. The deliberate withholding and dispensation of plot is unexpectedly witty, making the approximate second half discernibly more sharp and vibrant in the process. The cast's contributions are constrained somewhat by the fleet-footed build, but still I think all give able performances to bring the tableau to life. To be honest, I kind of had mixed expectations before I sat for it, and even after I first pressed "play." Yet while the feature isn't without its weaknesses, by and large I had a great time watching. Undue terseness in the construction is outweighed by the more substantial intelligence of the writing and the labor from behind the scenes, producing a tale that's sprightly, mirthful, and fun, with sufficient drama to propel the proceedings. This 1925 movie may be uneven with various faults, but the sum total is much more sturdy than not, serving up a rich and reasonably engrossing viewing experience. Those who have a hard time abiding older cinema may not find anything here to change their minds, but for those with a taste for the classics I believe 'The phantom of the Moulin Rouge' holds up well, and is very much worth checking out if one has the opportunity.