The Private Life of Don Juan (1934)

Douglas Fairbanks' last film is hardly a triumph, but it is still quite an enjoyable tale that takes a slightly quirkier take on the life of the famous Lothario. A man in middle age, he still has success with the ladies - but his doctor is a little worried that his health is failing. Heaven forfend that he die on the job! Of course he believes none of this, but when his servant is murdered by someone who believed the man to be him, he takes advantage of this error and retires to private life. Bored by that, after a while, he decides to reappear but his aged looks draw naught but ridicule from all concerned. Meantime, his wife "Dolores" (Benita Hulme) hasn't given up hope of a reconciliation with the rogue she loves - but can she bring him to heel? It is quite a tame production. Whilst there is plenty of swordplay action, it is much more gingerly delivered. That adds authenticity to the thread that he is a much more elderly gent, but it also slows the pace down and at times this film is actually a bit too dull; too wordy. Merle Oberon is stunning as "Antonita" the dancer and Melville Cooper tries his best as his amiable sidekick "Leporello" but sadly this film just never really catches fire.