The Three Musketeers (1916 film)

The Three Musketeers is a 1916 silent film adaptation of Alexandre Dumas's classic novel of the same name. Directed by Charles Vidor (though sometimes attributed to Fred Niblo), the film stars Orrin Johnson as D'Artagnan, a young Gascon seeking to become a musketeer in the King's guard.

The film follows D'Artagnan's journey as he travels to Paris and quickly becomes embroiled in political intrigue and romance. He befriends the titular three musketeers – Athos, Porthos, and Aramis – and together they face danger and adventure, defending the honor of the Queen and fighting against the machinations of Cardinal Richelieu and the treacherous Milady de Winter.

While considered a landmark in early cinema, The Three Musketeers (1916) is now considered a lost film. No known complete copies exist. Fragments and stills are the only surviving remnants, making a full reconstruction or viewing impossible. Because of its lost status, detailed information about the film's plot beyond the basic outline, casting choices for minor roles, and specific directorial techniques employed are largely unknown.