Watch Douglas Fairbanks: The Great Swashbuckler

As he swings on ropes, engages in sword fights, and saves damsels in distress, Douglas Fairbanks became a Hollywood legend with his daring athleticism and charm. "Douglas Fairbanks: The Great Swashbuckler" is a tribute to one of the brightest stars of the silent film era, who defined the action-adventure genre and paved the way for future action heroes.

Narrated by Keri Leigh, the film takes us back to the early 20th century, when Fairbanks was a struggling actor in New York, trying to make it on Broadway. With his boundless energy and natural athleticism, Fairbanks quickly caught the attention of theatergoers and soon found himself recruited by film studios in California. It was there where he would rise to stardom, cementing his legacy as one of the most iconic figures of the silver screen.

Featuring interviews with film historians, actors, and directors who worked with Fairbanks, "The Great Swashbuckler" sheds light on the man behind the mask. We learn about his early struggles with alcoholism, his tumultuous marriage to Mary Pickford, and his passion for physical fitness, which he shared with millions of fans through his books and instructional films. The documentary also explores Fairbanks' impact on popular culture, from the creation of Mickey Mouse to the Indiana Jones franchise.

Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of Fairbanks' career was his commitment to pushing the boundaries of what was possible on film. He was one of the first actors to perform his own stunts, including one scene where he slid down the side of a building on a rope without a safety net. Fairbanks also pioneered the use of special effects, including miniature models and matte paintings, to create elaborate action set pieces that left audiences breathless. The documentary showcases some of Fairbanks' most memorable moments on screen, including the swashbuckling adventure "The Thief of Bagdad," the pirate romp "The Black Pirate," and the classic comedy "The Mark of Zorro."

However, "The Great Swashbuckler" also recognizes the limitations of Fairbanks' era. As a white, heterosexual male in a conservative society, Fairbanks was limited in the roles he could play and the messages he could send. The documentary delves into the problematic aspects of some of Fairbanks' films, including the use of racial stereotypes and the glorification of violence. It also acknowledges the lack of diversity in Hollywood during his time, and points to the groundbreaking work of actors like Sidney Poitier and Hattie McDaniel, who paved the way for more inclusive storytelling.

Throughout the film, we see how Fairbanks became more than just an actor; he was a symbol of American values and aspirations. His image was emblazoned on everything from lunchboxes to airplanes, and his impact on American culture can still be seen today. Though he passed away over 80 years ago, his legacy continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.

Overall, "Douglas Fairbanks: The Great Swashbuckler" is a well-crafted tribute to a Hollywood icon. It celebrates his achievements while acknowledging his flaws, and presents a comprehensive look at his life and career. Fans of classic Hollywood will enjoy seeing clips from Fairbanks' films and hearing from experts in the field, while newcomers will appreciate learning about his lasting impact on the film industry.

Douglas Fairbanks: The Great Swashbuckler is a 2005 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.