castledrac31

The reviewers who called this "one of the worst ever" apparently haven't seen really poor films. This would be an average spear and sandal movie but for the presence of Wells and Mature that lifts it a bit. It's typical of the genre, some big sets, lots of extras, and plenty of fighting with rubber swords. Incredible to believe that five writers worked on its very thin plot, but at only 83 minutes it's an easy time killer. Director Richard Thorpe was a journeyman whose career included some very good films such as "Ivanhoe," as well as his share of turkeys. The music score by Renzo Rossellini is undistinguished.

Per historian Ed Hulse in the Film Detective blu-ray audio commentary, there was never a feature version of this title. It was originally a 15-chapter serial released during 1921-22, and was reissued in a 10-chapter version in 1928. The 65 minute version is actually a collection of odd reels from both releases (but not including chapter one) that a company compiled for video release in the 'eighties. As a result this version can't be judged as other than a sampling of what the original may have been.

Another reviewer unfairly castigates Lincoln's acting. Well, there really was no acting required other than to look strong. Lillian Worth, who plays Queen La of Opar, did deserve criticism since some of her histrionics are risible and of the type in lampoons of silent films.

Some of the animal handling is disturbing in a era before the ASPCA began monitoring animal cruelty in films. And some of the actor stunts and interaction with the lions looked very dangerous.

For Tarzan fans this is an interesting curiosity, and the complete serial has been discovered and due to be released on video.

I'll second the criticism posted in another review: improbable plot, convoluted and farfetched murder scheme. Donald Woods and Nan Gray are personable leads, with the latter still learning her craft. I'll add that Peter Lind Hayes plays a supporting role as a gopher at the radio station. He's a wannabe actor, and trying for his "break" he buttonholes execs and subjects them - and us - to a series of obnoxious voice impersonations. I'm a fan of the Universal '30s films, but sitting through this one was painful at times.