Robinson Crusoe (1927) / Be My King (1928) (Silent) (DVD)

Daniel Defoe's classic tale of survival is handsomely brought to the movies for the first time in this rarely seen 1927 film, produced by Rex Pictures, a division of Universal. M.A. Wetherell, who stars as Robinson Crusoe, produced, directed and adapted the story for the screen, admirably condensing a lengthy slow-moving novel into a taut, exciting screen adventure. The costumes and production values match the fine performances and all of the island sequences appear to have been shot outdoors, convincingly on location. Crusoe's improvised island apparel and makeshift architectural constructions are creatively and faithfully rendered. From the stormy shipwreck, to the bloody battle with murderous mutineers, this premier version of Robinson Crusoe is a noteworthy one.

Also includes the 1928 film Be My King, starring and directed by Lupino Lane.

• silent