Bardelys the Magnificent is based upon the novel by Rafael Sabatini and directed by King Vidor. In France "in an age of light loves and lively scandals," the Marquis de Bardelys (John Gilbert), casual womanizer and accomplished swashbuckler, is entranced by Roxalanne de Lavedan (Eleanor Boardman); and against a background of knavery and intrigue, he sets out to woo and win her.