Black Magic (1949)

A young gypsy boy (Annielo Mele) vows vengeance on the noblemen who sentenced his parents to death. As an adult (now Orson Welles), he becomes a famous sorcerer known throughout Europe earning wealth, fame and privilege. But when he becomes obsessed with a great beauty (Nancy Guild), it will lead to his downfall. Based on the novel JOSEPH BALSAMO by Alexandre Dumas and directed by Gregory Ratoff (INTERMEZZO). Outside of the films he himself directed, Orson Welles played very few leading man roles. The flashy role of Cagliostro seems tailor made for Welles, himself an excellent amateur magician. It's a beguiling piece of hokum full of intrigue and ample in ambience and one should have a good time at it. It also allows Nancy Guild to shine in a dual role. In addition to the sorcerer's unwilling lover, she plays Marie Antoinette. With Valentina Cortese, Akim Tamiroff, Raymond Burr, Margot Grahame, Stephen Bekassy and Frank Latimore.