The Thief of Bagdad

This 140-minute silent film from the 1920's is one of those classics you can watch once and check off your list, and then ask why it was on your list. It's an Arabian Nights fantasy that begins and ends with the phrase "Happiness must be earned," spelled out in the stars. It of course reminds me of "Aladdin," which to the average filmgoer will be the more interesting film. I'm not into these movies (the silent type), and I don't know why I keep trying to watch them, but this one does seem to have it all: stunts, trick photography, impressive sets, monsters. It doesn't do much for me now, but it's obvious that back in the day this would have impressed.