Silent film royalty meets forbidden love — no dialogue, ALL melodrama.
Set in the fictitious European kingdom of Balanca, Prince Michael IV is being coerced, by his advisers, to marry a young woman of royal blood. However, he has fallen for a peasant.
Acting
Ramon Novarro's smoldering silent stares could power a small city.
Costume
Ermine robes so extra you'll need sunglasses.
Director
Harry Beaumont
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Ramon Novarro and Renée Adorée were MGM's hottest silent duo — this was their third pairing in two years.
The 'fictitious European kingdom' trope peaked in late silents, letting American audiences enjoy monarchy drama without actual political baggage.
US
