Movie spotlight
The Green Goddess
In 1939, Orson Welles staged a version of the play "The Green Goddess" in New York, which was preceded by a short film prelude. This was two years before the release of his debut feature film, "Citizen Kane". The footage is now believed lost.
Insights
Plot Summary
Three English travelers find themselves stranded in the remote Indian state of Rukh, where the tyrannical Raja (Rathbone) holds them captive. The Raja, a fanatical worshipper of the Hindu goddess Maya, has his own reasons for keeping them, which involve his own personal vendettas and a scheme involving his beautiful, exiled cousin. The stranded travelers must use their wits to survive and escape the Raja's clutches.
Critical Reception
This early cinematic adaptation of a popular stage play was met with moderate reviews, often highlighting Basil Rathbone's commanding performance. While some critics found the plot a bit melodramatic or dated even for its time, it was generally seen as a decent thriller with exotic settings and a strong central villain.
What Reviewers Say
Basil Rathbone delivers a memorable performance as the villainous Raja.
The film offers a sense of exotic adventure and suspense.
Some found the plot overly theatrical and melodramatic.
Google audience: Information not available for this classic film.
Fun Fact
The film is based on the 1921 play of the same name by William Archer, which was also adapted into a silent film in 1923 starring George Arliss.
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