Generally, the 1939 The Man in the Iron Mask isn't really anyone's favorite. The subsequent versions are so much better, so even if anyone remembers to rent the old one, it's not regarded as very good. Louis Hayward, who usually plays someone privileged, plays the dual role of the king and the poor imprisoned twin. He's very believable as entitled royalty, but not as the innocent victim who's been hidden away and has never seen an ounce of kindness.
As the four musketeers, you'll see Alan Hale, Warren William, Miles Mander, and Bert Roach. Joan Bennett plays the desirable princess, but her very thick "Jean Harlow" accent doesn't make her very believable in a period piece. The sinister Joseph Schildkraut plays one of the villains, but no one really gives more than a one-dimensional interpretation of their character. This version is in black-and-white, so there aren't any Technicolor spectaculars luring you to watch it. Just stick with the Richard Chamberlain or Leonardo DiCaprio versions.
As the four musketeers, you'll see Alan Hale, Warren William, Miles Mander, and Bert Roach. Joan Bennett plays the desirable princess, but her very thick "Jean Harlow" accent doesn't make her very believable in a period piece. The sinister Joseph Schildkraut plays one of the villains, but no one really gives more than a one-dimensional interpretation of their character. This version is in black-and-white, so there aren't any Technicolor spectaculars luring you to watch it. Just stick with the Richard Chamberlain or Leonardo DiCaprio versions.