The title character of Christian-Jaque’s comic swashbuckler originated in 18th-century folk songs, and although he was first introduced on screen in an eight-part serial in 1925, this is the one that most people remember. As embodied by the handsome and charming Gérard Philipe, Fanfan is the quintessential French hero, an unbridled free spirit who is as quick with a witty comeback or sly aside as he is with a rapier. Director Christian-Jaques started his career as a set designer, and it shows in his attention to visual detail and physical beauty. The film is really little more than an effervescent trifle, but it is still a lot of fun. (DVD)