Carnival (1921 film)

Carnival is a 1921 British silent historical drama film directed by Harley Knoles and starring Matheson Lang, Ivor Novello, and Hilda Bayley. The film is based on a play by H.M. Bernon, and is set in 18th-century Venice. It tells the story of a jealous husband, Silvio Steno (played by Lang), who suspects his wife, Simonetta (played by Bayley), of infidelity with a celebrated dancer, Count Andrea Dandolo (played by Novello), during the Venetian Carnival. Steno plots revenge, driven by his passionate jealousy and suspicion. The film culminates in a dramatic confrontation during the carnival celebrations. It is considered a significant early British film, notable for its elaborate sets and costumes recreating the atmosphere of 18th-century Venice. The film explores themes of love, jealousy, betrayal, and revenge, common in melodramatic narratives.