Story of how British Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli, outwitted the Russians and was able to purchase the Suez Canal.
Arliss won the Oscar for best actor. He was the first Jewish person to win the Academy Award. (I know the Oscars had been business for a mere 2 years.)
Arliss showed comedic gifts in his Oscar-winning performance. His stalwart behavior in defense of England will always be an endearing quality. He was ably supported by his wife, Florence, and especially by Russian spy, Doris Lloyd. Joan Bennett did fine in her part of the girlfriend of an aide to Disraeli.
Unfortunately, Vitograph's sound has not withstood the passing years. The film needs to be preserved with sound improvement.
There are overtones of anti-Semitism in the film. It is never explained how Disraeli was able to outmaneuver Gladstone for the Prime Minister's position.
The ending is really a miracle at its nicest.
Arliss won the Oscar for best actor. He was the first Jewish person to win the Academy Award. (I know the Oscars had been business for a mere 2 years.)
Arliss showed comedic gifts in his Oscar-winning performance. His stalwart behavior in defense of England will always be an endearing quality. He was ably supported by his wife, Florence, and especially by Russian spy, Doris Lloyd. Joan Bennett did fine in her part of the girlfriend of an aide to Disraeli.
Unfortunately, Vitograph's sound has not withstood the passing years. The film needs to be preserved with sound improvement.
There are overtones of anti-Semitism in the film. It is never explained how Disraeli was able to outmaneuver Gladstone for the Prime Minister's position.
The ending is really a miracle at its nicest.