Beyond the Rocks (DVD, 2006)

This is a must have for any silent film buff! The only film that Rudolph Valentino and Gloria Swanson starred in together. Originally it was thought that this film was lost forever. A copy was found in a Scandiavian Museum archive a few years ago and brought to life. The new music score compliments the film (unlike many "new" scores made for silents, that are not relevant to the story). I find this music quite suited to the film in a hauntingly romantic sense.

It is a delightfully simple, lovely romantic story. In an early scene, the herione (Gloria) is rescued from drowning by a young, handsome, wealthy, titled gentleman (Valentino). She is somewhat smitten with him, while her step-sisters remind her he is not suitable for marraige (considered a "player") and they are looking for a more "suitable" candidate.

The heroine (Gloria Swanson)is soon introduced to her "suiable" candidate, a kind but weakly wealthy older gentleman. Love and loyalty to her father & step-sisters, Gloria agrees to marry. She is a caring and loyal wife, but is torn by her love for the younger handsome (Valentino).

The story opens in a seaside village, presumably in the UK. The remainder of the story takes place in Europe, as the Newlyweds travel from county to country on their honeymoon. Mingling in the best social circles.

Valentino's character, always the gentleman, would rather be a devoted friend, to the couple, just to be near her, knowing he can never have her. The two agree they must be strong if they are to remain friends, becasue she would never dishonor her family by leaving her husband.

Of course, no great silent would be worth it's salt if it didn't have a tradgedy prior to a "happy ending"! "Beyond the Rocks" is no exception! There are many nuances and details that bring this wonderful story to life, which I have intentionally left out....don't want to spoil it for anyone! You will be able to watch this over and over, before you have really "seen" it all!

One of the best of the Silent Era!