Rosita (1923)

Background Information
"Rosita" is a 1923 American silent movie directed by Ernst Lubitsch, a legendary German movie director, who is popular for his sophisticated style and wit. The motion picture was produced by Mary Pickford, a popular Canadian-American movie starlet and producer, who likewise starred in the movie. The movie is basically an adaptation of the 1872 Spanish opera "Don César de Bazan".

Plot Summary
The story of "Rosita" focuses on a romantic tale embeded in 19th century Seville, Spain. Rosita (Mary Pickford), the street vocalist, is the heroine of the story, who survives by singing the folk and dancing in the streets for passers-by. One day, Rosita insults the King (Holbrook Blinn), as she is not aware of his real identity during their very first encounter. To forgive her, the King requests her to perform at the Royal Palace.

At the palace, she fulfills Don Diego (George Walsh) and falls for him. Don Diego, though belonging to nobility, is so bad that he can't even afford a decent meal. The King also gets enamored with Rosita and desires to make her one of his girlfriends. As a plot to accomplish this, he orders Don Diego to marry Rosita on his behalf.

Weaves
Rosita, uninformed of the King's strategy, consents to marry Don Diego, thinking that it's a genuine love and commitment. However, the reality unfolds on their wedding night when Rosita recognizes that she has been utilized as a pawn in the King's scheme. She feels betrayed by both Don Diego and the King and is heartbroken.

Conclusion
In the end, Queen Isabella (Irene Rich) learns more about the King's adultery plan and steps in. She pardons Don Diego, who was at first apprehended for standing versus the King, and reunites him with Rosita. Lastly, love victories over deceit and manipulation with The King finding out a severe lesson.

Important Evaluation
"Rosita" is a considerable film in the history of quiet films due to the collaboration of Mary Pickford and Ernst Lubitsch, two powerful forces in the world of early cinema. The movie is a mix of funny, love, and melodrama, using a view into the elegant royal life in Spanish culture and highlighting the problems of class and gender.

In "Rosita", Mary Pickford leaves from her typecast functions as a young innocent lady and efficiently enacts a strong and independent lady. In addition, Lubitsch's comedic and innovative touch to the movie raised its status, making it a classic in the world of silent movies.

Like many other silent movies of that era, "Rosita" paints the picture of socio-political conditions and power dynamics of the times, making it much more than simple home entertainment. It reflects society's battles with hardship and the polarity of power and class, making it a timeless piece of cinema. Regardless of combined reviews at its release, with time, "Rosita" has actually happened valued for its significant production worth, robust story, and brilliant efficiencies.

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