Queen Kelly

Queen Kelly is the title of an American silent film produced in 1929.

Related Topics:
American - Silent film - 1929

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The film was directed by Erich von Stroheim and starred Gloria Swanson in the title role, a poor student in a convent who pursued by, and ultimately marries, a young prince.

Related Topics:
Directed - Erich von Stroheim - Gloria Swanson

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Queen Kelly was widely publicised during its production as a result of its elaborate sets and high production values, however the production proved to very difficult. Von Stroheim had created more than four hours worth of film with much of the story remaining to be filmed, when Swanson frustrated by his filming methods had production stopped. The footage was edited down to a manageable length but was not successful with either critics, or the viewing public. Von Stroheim's career was virtually ruined by the event, with Hollywood producers viewing him as undisciplined. Swanson's own career was severely damaged by the enterprise. She had new scenes filmed in 1932 which provided some conclusion to some of the storylines, and this new version was released in 1933. It also failed to find an audience.

Related Topics:
1932 - 1933

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Scenes from the film were seen in the film Sunset Boulevard being watched by Gloria Swanson as Norma Desmond, and Von Stroheim playing her former director and husband. The film was depicted as having been one of Norma Desmond's great successes.

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The film has been reassessed by some modern critics who consider that it contains some of von Stroheim's most striking work, however the length of the film was unsuitable for cinema audiences.

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