Madame DuBarry (Blu-ray)

Pola Negri delivers a captivating performance as Jeanne Bécu, the Countess of Barry, in a silent film that charts her meteoric rise from modest beginnings to a position of influence amidst the tumult of the French Revolution. Her affair with King Louis XV, portrayed by Emil Jannings, marks the zenith of her power but also precipitates her downfall, casting her into the ominous shadow of the guillotine. Directed by Ernst Lubitsch, known for his later work in romantic comedies marked by visual flair and subtle innuendo, this film showcases his early prowess in crafting grand historical epics during his tenure in Germany. "Madame Dubarry," released in the United States as "Passion," was a production of remarkable scale, featuring vast sets and a legion of extras, yet Lubitsch's nuanced understanding of romantic entanglements ensures that the film's lavish visuals never eclipse its intricate emotional narratives. This film not only solidified Lubitsch's status as a preeminent European director but also paved his way to Hollywood.

The film is further enhanced by special features, including an insightful audio commentary by Joseph McBride, who penned the critical analysis "How Did Lubitsch Do It?", offering audiences a deeper understanding of Lubitsch's unique directorial approach and the enduring appeal of his cinematic works.