Beau Geste

The lesser known silent original Beau Geste footprint is a near match of its 39 carbon copy save for a few changes. Not exactly a shot for shot reproduction but filmed on the same locale (Yuma, AZ) with an outstanding cast conveying both high desert adventure along with a sense of desperation within the walls of Fort Zindernuff where a sadistic sergeant fends off a massive Arab assault.

Even without his sonorous voice Colman as Beau exudes a dashing nobility while Noah Beery as the sergeant holding down the fort is the silent equal of the magnificent Donlevy performance in the 39. William Powell as the craven Boldini is surprising effective playing against his usual urbane self.

As silent epic Beau Geste succeeds in nearly every facet with immense production values and fine performances in the key roles. But with a pristine print non-existent and the specter of the more popular sound version where Alfred Newman's score gives even more voice to the desert.