The Higher Law (1914 film)

Moving Picture World wrote: "This is the second of the series being produced by Charles Giblyn, picturing scenes in the life of the vagabond poet, Francois Villon. Murdock MacQuarrie has the name part and Pauline Bush and Lon Chaney are also in the cast. In this number Villon acts as the emissary of Louis XI, and by his wits succeeds in luring to destruction Sir Stephen, favorite of Edward IV. The atmosphere and costuming are good, and the final scenes dramatic and stirring. Villon appears to advantage in his more poetical aspects. In this incident he is a little too much of the villain. But the prediction is a commendable one, and above the average in general construction."

Motion Picture News wrote: "The director, Charles Giblyn, has proven himself worthy of great praise. The old costumes and castles, the joviality of the tap-room, the dignified and stately action of the court followers, all lend a decidedly mediaeval atmosphere to the picture...but the picture does not rely solely on its meritorious costumes and atmosphere for success. There is sufficient scheming, brawls, duel scenes and the like to appease the appetites of the keen lovers of sensationalism, and those who would not be content with the great character study that the picture offers."^[3]

• The Higher Law at IMDb