The Darling of Paris 1917
The Darling of Paris (1917), a silent-era romance directed by J. Gordon Edwards, reimagines Victor Hugo's classic tale with a compelling twist.
Director: J. Gordon Edwards
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Darling of Paris (1917) about?
This silent film reimagines Victor Hugo's *The Hunchback of Notre-Dame*, following Esmeralda, a woman raised by gypsies who becomes the darling of Paris. Her life intertwines with Quasimodo, a loyal bellringer, and two dangerous men—Frollo, a wicked surgeon, and Captain Phoebus, whose charm masks cruelty.
Who directed The Darling of Paris?
The Darling of Paris was directed by J. Gordon Edwards, a filmmaker known for his atmospheric silent-era dramas and adaptations of classic literature.
Who stars in The Darling of Paris?
The film features Theda Bara as Esmeralda, with Glen White, Walter Law, Herbert Heyes, and Carey Lee rounding out the cast.
Is The Darling of Paris (1917) worth watching?
While it's a silent-era film with limited information available, The Darling of Paris offers a unique take on a literary classic. Fans of early cinema, gothic romance, or Theda Bara's iconic performances may find it intriguing, despite its presumed lost status.
How long is The Darling of Paris?
The Darling of Paris (1917) has a runtime of 60 minutes.
About The Darling of Paris (1917) — A Lost Silent Romance Reimagined
The Darling of Paris (1917), a silent-era romance directed by J. Gordon Edwards, reimagines Victor Hugo's classic tale with a compelling twist. Based on *The Hunchback of Notre-Dame*, this forgotten gem follows Esmeralda, a woman raised by gypsies who becomes the heart of 19th-century Paris. Her beauty and spirit draw the attention of three very different men: Quasimodo, the gentle bellringer bound by loyalty; Frollo, a sinister surgeon harboring dark obsessions; and Phoebus, a manipulative captain whose charm hides cruelty. Set against the grandeur and grit of Parisian streets, the film weaves passion, betrayal, and redemption into a dramatic tapestry. Edwards' direction infuses the story with a moody atmosphere, blending gothic romance with the raw energy of early cinema.
As one of the era's most audacious adaptations, The Darling of Paris stands out for its bold reinterpretation of a literary giant. Theda Bara, the silent-screen siren, delivers a magnetic performance as Esmeralda, while Glen White and Walter Law anchor the film's darker corners with intensity. Though long presumed lost, its legacy lives on as a fascinating snapshot of early 20th-century storytelling—where love and danger collide in equal measure.