Paul Scofield made his film debut as Philip II of Spain in this handsome but slow-paced costumer that has Olivia de Havilland in the title role (wearing a black eyepatch as the one-eyed Ana de Mendoza, Princess of Eboli). Interesting costumes and scenery but it's all too talky with not enough movement, giving it the static look of a stage play rather than cinema. Gilbert Roland is excellent as de Havilland's lover and the rest of the supporting cast is fine, including Christopher Lee in an early bit role. Olivia is photographed beautifully throughout but the role, as written, gives her little opportunity to really shine. She was a great admirer of Katharine Cornell who played the role on stage to rave notices--probably the reason she chose to make this film. Lensed in Cinemascope and color, it loses a lot on the small screen and I don't believe Fox has ever released it to home video.
