The Iron Mask (USA, 1929)

Eight years after The Three Musketeers, Douglas Fairbanks returns in the sequel based on Alexandre Dumas‘ novel.

It seems during that eight-year period, filmmaking techniques had improved a lot. The editing is far more fluid, making the story a lot easier to follow and the music soundtrack actually matches the picture in style.

On the down side, there is less action than in the previous Musketeers movie. It also takes a long time before we can see any swashbuckling. A better movie, yes, but not as action oriented. Nevertheless, when the action comes, it is great ! And Fairbanks is as graceful as ever !

Fun to watch and entertaining !

On a last note, the Internet Movie Database says the movie has sound effects and some talking sequences. There must be different versions, because the movie reviewed does not have any sound but the music score.