The Black Rose

The Black Rose

Year: 1950

Runtime: 116 mins

Language: English

Director: Henry Hathaway

HistoryAdventureWar

A sweeping 13th‑century adventure follows Walter of Gurnie, a disinherited Saxon forced to flee England. With his loyal friend Tristram, he joins the charismatic General Bayan’s army and journeys across continents to China. There the duo becomes entangled in the political intrigues of Kublai Khan’s court, while a passionate love story unfolds against the backdrop of war and destiny.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Black Rose (1950)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Black Rose (1950). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

During the reign of Edward I, early 14th century

The story is set approximately two centuries after the Norman Conquest, specifically during the early 1300s. This period was marked by political upheavals in England and the height of Mongol expansion in Eurasia, with European ventures into Asia becoming plausible through the Silk Road and other routes. It was a time of cultural exchanges and conflicts between the West and East.

Location

England, Cathay (China)

The movie switches between two significant locations: medieval England during the reign of Edward I and ancient Cathay, a historic Chinese region. England provides the backdrop for social and political tensions post-Norman Conquest, while Cathay is depicted as a vast land of intrigue, empire, and cultural richness during the Pax Mongolica era.

🏰 Medieval 🌏 East Asian 🏞️ Historic Settings

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:50

Main Characters – The Black Rose (1950)

Meet the key characters of The Black Rose (1950), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Walter of Gurnie (Orson Welles)

A Saxon scholar and illegitimate son of the Earl of Lessford. Walter is intelligent, curious, and driven by a desire for knowledge and adventure. His journey from England to China marks his transformation from a scholar to a man of action, whose love and loyalty grow amid political and cultural upheaval.

🧠 Scholar ❤️ Lover ⚔️ Adventurer

Maryam the Black Rose (Cécile Aubry)

An enigmatic and noble figure sent as a gift from Cathay, she embodies beauty, love, and resilience. Her feelings for Walter develop amid captivity, highlighting her strength and longing for freedom as she seeks her way back to England.

🌹 Noble 💖 Romantic 🧭 Resilient

Bayan of the Hundred Eyes (Herbert Lom)

A Mongol general who shows both martial prowess and diplomatic interest. His fascination with Walter and his role in the Mongol Empire reflect the complex dynamics of conquest, allegiance, and cultural diplomacy during the period.

🛡️ Warrior 🤝 Diplomat 🌏 Power broker

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:50

Major Themes – The Black Rose (1950)

Explore the central themes of The Black Rose (1950), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎭 Cultural Exchange

The film explores the exchange of knowledge, culture, and tradition between the West and East, exemplified by Walter’s journey to China and his subsequent return with scientific and technological insights. It highlights how cross-cultural contact can influence civilizations and personal growth.

⚔️ Adventure and Loyalty

Centered on adventure, loyalty, and sacrifice, the story follows characters risking their lives for love, freedom, and cultural preservation. Walter’s pursuit of knowledge and his loyalty to Maryam drive much of the narrative, emphasizing themes of personal dedication amidst political turmoil.

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:50

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Epic Journey Movies Like The Black Rose

Grand adventures where heroes travel vast distances and bridge civilizations.If you enjoyed the continental trek in The Black Rose, explore other movies featuring heroes on world-spanning adventures. These stories capture the thrill of exploration, cultural exchange, and personal transformation against epic backdrops.

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Narrative Summary

The narrative follows a linear, chronological progression from a familiar starting point into the unknown. The protagonist, often an outsider, must navigate foreign customs, political intrigue, and physical dangers, with the journey itself serving as the primary catalyst for character development and a triumphant return.

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Movies in this thread share a sense of sweeping scale, a focus on cultural contrast and connection, and a protagonist's arc defined by the transformative power of travel. They blend adventure with thoughtful exploration of different societies.

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romanticmelancholicloyalhopefuladventurousepictragic loss

Narrative Summary

The plot interweaves a large-scale historical or military conflict with a central romantic relationship that faces significant obstacles. The journey involves separation, tests of loyalty, and often the tragic loss of a friend or ally, but ultimately culminates in a hopeful reunion or resolution for the main couple.

Why These Movies?

This thread groups movies that successfully balance epic scope with intimate human drama. They share a medium emotional weight, where the stakes are high and the cost of adventure is felt, but the overall tone remains hopeful, focusing on love and honor prevailing.

Unlock the Full Story of The Black Rose

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Black Rose in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Black Rose is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Black Rose Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Black Rose, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Black Rose Summary

The Black Rose Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Black Rose with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Black Rose Timeline

The Black Rose Spoiler-Free Summary

Get a quick, spoiler-free overview of The Black Rose that covers the main plot points and key details without revealing any major twists or spoilers. Perfect for those who want to know what to expect before diving in.

The Black Rose Spoiler-Free Summary

More About The Black Rose

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Black Rose: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

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