Scaramouche (1923)

In the tumultuous times of Louis XVI's reign, France lies in disarray, gripped in the iron fist of a formidable nobility. Amidst this chaos, André-Louis Moreau, a Paris law student, returns to his provincial birthplace, Gavrillac, seeking solace in the company of his best friend, Philippe de Vilmorin, an aspiring priest, and Aline de Kercadiou, the niece of his godfather and the object of his long-held affection. Tragedy strikes when the Marquis de la Tour d'Azyr, a powerful nobleman and master swordsman, slays Philippe in a brutally mismatched duel, fueling Philippe's belief that the nobility exploit their power to oppress the common people. Enraged by this act of cowardice, André vows to carry on Philippe's fight for freedom, specifically against the Marquis, despite the warnings of his godfather who dreams of a noble union between the Marquis and Aline. Transforming into an enemy of the state, André must go into hiding. He finds refuge in a struggling theater troupe, concealing his identity under the guise of Scaramouche, the troupe's popular masked clown. Under André's influence, the troupe achieves newfound respect, and he finds a second home and kindred spirit in Climène Binet, the troupe leader's daughter. However, André's heart remains torn between two worlds. Despite the comfort and camaraderie of his troupe and the affections of Climène, he is haunted by Aline's image and his seething desire for revenge against the Marquis. As the state of France teeters on the brink, André's commitment to Philippe's cause, the plight of the common people, and his quest for justice against the Marquis remain at the fore of his existence, shaping his destiny in this captivating tale of love, loyalty and rebellion.

Scaramouche is an adventure movie featuring Ramon Novarro and directed by Rex Ingram.

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