Two Arabian Knights

"Two Arabian Knights" is a 1927 silent comedy film directed by Lewis Milestone. The film was famously produced by the eccentric millionaire and filmmaker Howard Hughes. Milestone went on to become one of Hollywood's most acclaimed directors of the early sound era.

The 1927 film features prominent actors of the silent era, including William Boyd, Mary Astor, and Louis Wolheim. William Boyd would later become a massive star, while Mary Astor achieved lasting fame in the sound era. The chemistry between Boyd and Wolheim carries much of the film's comedic moments.

The Howard Hughes-produced picture was adapted from a story by Donald McGibney. This story was originally serialized and published in "McClure’s Magazine," a popular publication of the era. The narrative centers on two American soldiers escaping a German prison camp during World War I.

Yes, Lewis Milestone won the Academy Award for Best Director (Comedy Picture) for "Two Arabian Knights" at the very first Academy Awards ceremony in 1929. It was the only year the Oscars separated comedy and drama directing categories. United Artists distributed the acclaimed film to theaters.