The Sheik (1921)

Rudolph Valentino stars in THE SHEIK, the silent epic from 1921 that made him a superstar. In this episode of CMR, James and Lara are joined by film historian Karie Bible, who leads tours at Hollywood Forever Cemetery (www.CemeteryTour.com), to talk about THE SHEIK in the mausoleum where Valentino’s crypt is located. We discuss the enduring appeal of Valentino, how his chest size changed the course of his future, and the surprisingly touching story behind “The Woman in Black,” who leaves a single rose at his grave every year. We also touch on what an achievement an epic film like THE SHEIK was in 1921, and how silent films were never really silent. Join us on location and see if you, too, fall under Valentino’s spell!