The Prisoner of Zenda | 1922 | Adventure

Title: The Prisoner of Zenda | 1922 | Adventure Director: Rex Ingram Studio: Metro Pictures Corporation Starring: Lewis Stone, Alice Terry, Robert Edeson, Stuart Holmes, Ramon Novarro, Barbara La Marr, Malcolm McGregor Based on: Novel *The Prisoner of Zenda* by Anthony Hope and stage adaptation by Edward Rose Release Date: September 1922 Runtime: Approximately 113 minutes Format: Silent black and white with English intertitles Country: United States Language: Silent Genres: Adventure Drama Romance --- Chapters: 00:00:00 Rudolf Rassendyll arrives in Ruritania 00:15:00 Discovery of uncanny resemblance 00:30:00 King drugged before coronation 00:45:00 Rassendyll impersonates the king 01:00:00 Royal intrigue and forbidden love 01:15:00 Rescue and throne restored --- Summary: The Prisoner of Zenda is a 1922 American silent adventure drama adapted from Anthony Hope’s popular 1894 novel. Englishman Rudolf Rassendyll, visiting the small European kingdom of Ruritania, discovers his remarkable likeness to King Rudolf V and becomes embroiled in royal intrigue when the monarch is incapacitated by his treacherous brother. To prevent a coup, Rassendyll assumes the king’s identity during the coronation and navigates political danger and romantic entanglements with Princess Flavia as plots to seize power unfold. --- Background: Directed and produced by Rex Ingram for Metro Pictures, this lavish silent adaptation was one of the era’s prominent literary films, combining swashbuckling adventure with dramatic romance. Its production values and performances, particularly by Lewis Stone in dual roles and Ramon Novarro as the charismatic antagonist, helped solidify several careers in the 1920s film industry. --- Trivia: Ramon Novarro’s performance as Rupert of Hentzau was widely noted for its charisma and helped boost his early career. The film was part of a series of silent adaptations of Hope’s novel, with earlier versions preceding this 1922 production. Barbara La Marr’s role drew attention for her striking presence and dramatic impact. A DVD release has been made available through archival restoration efforts, preserving this classic silent adventure. --- Public Domain / Rights: Original Release: September 1922 Original Studio / Distributor: Metro Pictures Corporation Copyright Status: Public Domain Renewal: Unknown --- Hashtags: #ThePrisonerOfZenda #RexIngram #SilentFilm #1922Film #AdventureDrama #ClassicCinema #PublicDomain