Les Trois Mousquetaires : Les ferrets de la reine

It has such old-fashioned charm, but when I put this version and the more famous version by Richard Lester next to each other, the second wins. It may lose a little credibility with some of the fights, which are surprisingly loyal and dynamic in this version (apart from accelerators during fistfights), but it replaces it all with excellent choreography, comedy elements and, in particular, better story gradation. Borderier's film is definitely a pleasant representative of the now classic adventure school made in France. Typical for its dolliness, storytelling and charming magic of all the main characters, to whom nothing can happen. There's also decent humor, but it's just decent enough not to throw off the gloriola of the main characters. I prefer the irresistible Michael York, whose portrayal of D’Artagnan has more charm compared to the self-confident Barray. (26.03.2004)

Faithful to the book, but a little too madcap for my taste. It can’t be meant seriously, like when the ranks of the Cardinal’s guard come on the scene. But still, it’s good and has undeniable charm, although it smacks rather of Angelica. It’s just that Athos, Porthos and Aramis lack any spark, interest and charisma. And they are pushed right into the background. The Three Musketeers without the three musketeers... That sounds more like something by Cimrman than by Dumas. (24.12.2008)