It is always a treat to watch John Gilbert, a great actor, both in silent and sound films. THE PHANTOM OF PARIS may be his best sound film as it offers several different layers of entertainment for all. Foremost, Gilbert plays a Houdini-type master magician, and his act is fun to watch. All that comes crashing down when he is accused of murder and overnight transforms from hero to fugitive on the run. The film becomes very entertaining to watch at this point as the lengths he goes to prove his innocence, sort of a "mission impossible" approach to deceive and elude his captors. With Gilbert, you know there's a romantic sub plot, but the beautiful Leila Hyams as his significant other makes it worth it. A grande supporting cast of veterans rounds out this adventure, headed by Ian Keith, as Gilbert's nemesis, also C. Aubrey Smith, Jean Hersholt and Lewis Stone. Not a bad roster of talent. FInally on dvd and a smart add to your top shelf of oldies.
Review of The Phantom of Paris
