Pierrot the Prodigal

Francesca Bertini was only in her early twenties when she made this film. It became a world-wide hit and launched her career to an international audience.

Unusually for the time, Bertini plays a male role (it was common for males to play females, particularly in slapstick comedy but not the reverse) and she plays the Pierrot role successfully with a lot of verve and energy. She really seems to be enjoying her role and the viewer cannot help but share that joy.

Soon after other actresses started playing male roles (Asta Nielsen, Betty Bronson) but most likely Bertini paved the way. Leda Gys as Louisette is also excellent playing along-side Bertini, they were two greats of Italian Silent Cinema.

Good fun despite the stagey look.