The Shadow of a Throne

Violette Miroy is a young woman in Paris whose well-off parents recently died having largely spent all their resources. She meets the mysterious Georges and they fall in love, yet being a well-brought-up lady she insists on marriage; The wedding takes place and they have five happy years together. Violette discovers by chance that her husband is the second son of the Queen. Prince Harold, the Crown Prince, is deeply envious of his younger brother, whose happiness with Violette is in stark contrast to his own betrothal to the haughty Princess Augusta. After a heart-to-heart with Violette, Harold realizes he’ll never be loved for himself alone, and in a fit of despair he kills himself. Georges is called to his mother’s side, and the formidable Queen insists the new heir apparent give up his wife, ordering Lolet kidnapped in order to convince Violette to renounce any thoughts of remaining married to her husband.

Directed by Carmine Gallone, The Shadow of a Throne leans on a strong ensemble — Soava Gallone, Piero Schiavazzi, Umberto Casilini — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 1920.