Black Magic 1949
"...It Will Hold You in its Spell!"
Gregory Ratoff's *Black Magic (1949)* weaves a hypnotic tale of vengeance set against the opulent excesses of King Louis XV's court. Orson Welles stars as the enigmatic Cagliostro, a master of the arcane who wields mesmerism like a blade to exact revenge on those who wronged him.
Director: Gregory Ratoff
Cast
Orson Welles
Joseph Balsamo aka Count Cagliostro
Nancy Guild
Marie Antoinette / Lorenza
Akim Tamiroff
Gitano
Frank Latimore
Gilbert de Rezel
Valentina Cortese
Zoraida
Margot Grahame
Mme. du Barry
Stephen Bekassy
Viscount de Montagne
Berry Kroeger
Alexandre Dumas, Sr.
Gregory Gaye
Chambord / Monk (as Gregory Gay)
Raymond Burr
Alexandre Dumas, Jr.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Black Magic (1949) about?
The film follows the infamous occultist Cagliostro (Orson Welles), a hypnotist seeking vengeance against the corrupt nobility of King Louis XV's court. His powers of persuasion become weapons as he manipulates both allies and enemies to avenge past injustices.
Who directed Black Magic?
Gregory Ratoff directed *Black Magic (1949)*, steering the film's blend of historical drama and psychological suspense with a steady hand.
Who stars in Black Magic?
The cast includes Orson Welles as Cagliostro, Nancy Guild as the central female lead, Akim Tamiroff in a supporting role, Frank Latimore, Valentina Cortese, and Margot Grahame, each adding depth to the tangled web of deception.
Is Black Magic (1949) worth watching?
As a historical drama steeped in mystery and psychological tension, *Black Magic* offers a compelling watch for fans of Welles' iconic performances and period thrillers. While not rated on IMDb, its atmospheric storytelling and strong cast make it a hidden gem worth seeking out.
How long is Black Magic?
The film runs for 105 minutes, a runtime that allows for rich character development and immersive storytelling without overstaying its welcome.
About Black Magic (1949) — A hypnotist's deadly revenge in the court of King Louis XV
Gregory Ratoff's *Black Magic (1949)* weaves a hypnotic tale of vengeance set against the opulent excesses of King Louis XV's court. Orson Welles stars as the enigmatic Cagliostro, a master of the arcane who wields mesmerism like a blade to exact revenge on those who wronged him. With a haunting atmosphere thick with intrigue and betrayal, the film explores themes of power, manipulation, and the thin line between the supernatural and the human psyche. Nancy Guild co-stars as the woman caught in the hypnotist's lethal dance, while Akim Tamiroff and Valentina Cortese add layers of drama and deception. The movie's moody visuals and brooding tension make it a standout in mid-century historical dramas.
Crafted as a period thriller, *Black Magic (1949)* blends real-life figures with fictional suspense, creating a spellbinding narrative that lingers long after the credits roll. The film's gothic undertones and Welles' commanding presence elevate it beyond a simple revenge story, transforming it into a study of obsession and the dark allure of control.
