Newly restored, silent version w. sound effects and score

Rating: 10/10 (18 June 2004)

Now, in addition to The Library of Congress's restoration of the sound version, we have the silent version. It was released simultaneously (with the sound version) to theaters not yet fully equipped for "all-talking". The silent version does have a synchronized film score and constant sound effects, including singing, marching and all that artillery. Originally intended as a silent, the soundtrack works splendidly and improves many of the bunker scenes. For example, it helps one accept American actors, such as Slim Summerville, as Germans. The stabbed Frenchman scene is the main exception; unfortunately, it lacks the famous death gurgles. Also, occasionally, instead of trusting the visuals, there are too many dialogue titles.
Lew Ayres is so great being mentored by Louis Wolheim (check out his bio), presaging his later relationship with Lionel Barrymore.