We’re back with our annual retrospective of movies released 100 years ago. 1923 was a vibrant year, full of comedy, adventure and artistic risk.
I have selected four films on the lighter side this time around but there was plenty of heavy fare available as well. If I had to choose one word to describe the best films of the year, it would have to be “lavish.” Some of the best big films of the silent era are found in 1923. Here are a few I have already reviewed:
Scaramouche: An epic and stylish (and faithful!) adaptation of Rafael Sabatini’s classic. Easily Ramon Novarro’s best performance, though there’s stiff competition there.
The Ancient Law: A touching film from E.A. Dupont about a young Jewish man who leaves his village for the bright lights of Vienna. Stunningly beautiful.
Warning Shadows: Shadow puppetry, symbolism and Directoire fashion create a heady mix in this German fantasy.
The Burning Crucible: Ivan Mosjoukine’s mad vision of detectives, dreams and love. Essential viewing.
Nedbrudte Nerver: Another look at detectives, dreams and love but this one through a Danish lens and what fun it is!
The Old Baron of Rautakylä: A moody Finnish period piece complete with snow, wolves, dark secrets, secret passages and sinister schemes.
The School for Scandal: Another meltingly lovely film featuring a baby Basil Rathbone.
The Song of Love: Hollywood at its most bonkers, a delightful masterpiece of kitsch and the last film directed by Frances Marion.
I hope you enjoy this month’s selections! Happy reading!
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Movies Silently 