Svengali is a 1931 American pre-Code drama film directed by Archie Mayo. The film stars John Barrymore as Svengali, Marian Marsh as Trilby O'Farrell, Donald Crisp as The Laird, Bramwell Fletcher as Billee, Carmel Myers as Madame Honori, Luis Alberni as Gecko, Lumsden Hare as Monsieur Taffy, Paul Porcasi as Bonelli, and Ferike Boros as Marta. The film is based on the 1894 George du Maurier novel Trilby and was among the many film adaptations of the book. The film is a dark and suspenseful tale of obsession and control, with excellent performances from the cast. Barrymore is particularly memorable as the sinister Svengali, and Marsh is also good as the innocent Trilby. The cinematography is also stunning, and the film is beautifully shot. Overall, Svengali is a must-see for fans of psychological thrillers and dark dramas. Svengali was nominated for two Academy Awards in 1932: Best Cinematography (Barney McGill) and Best Art Direction (Anton Grot).