The Robe (1953)
8/10
Jesus/Rome tale unfairly castigated
1 April 2024
The Robe (1953) belongs to a collection of sword/sandal/Biblical epics from the period of Hollywood. Despite some negative reviews I personally found it quite enlightening being pretty atheist.

As well as having the subject of Jesus crucification at its core it has a screenplay that deals with some of the core messages of Christianity and the conversion of a Roman military tribune, Marcellus (played by Richard Burton) to the faith.

Over the years Burton's performance has faced criticism. I disagree. He had such diversity with his filmography and roles in them.

The film should also be well remembered for a technical innovation in film, the first wide-screen presentation using the Cinemascope process. Allowing directors and directors of photography to put more detailed images in each frame.

Other notable mentions should go to Victor Mature as slave Demetrius, who also undergoes a life changing experience after a visual encounter with Christ.

Has all the usual trappings of a Roman epic including a good score, set design and sword duels.
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