: Joseph Balsamo, later known as Count Alessandro di Cagliostro, was a real historical figure (1743–1795).
The story follows Balsamo, a Romani boy who vows revenge against the Viscount de Montaigne after witnessing his parents' execution. After learning the secrets of hypnotism from the physician Dr. Mesmer, Balsamo rejects the doctor’s moral advice to use his powers for healing and instead transforms into the legendary "Count Cagliostro" to pursue wealth and power. Cagliostro (1949)
: The film opens with a meta-narrative device featuring Dumas Sr. (Berry Kroeger) telling the story of Cagliostro to his son, Dumas Jr. (Raymond Burr). Plot Summary : Joseph Balsamo, later known as Count Alessandro