Review of The Agony and the Ecstasy (1965) by Jim M — 26 Aug 2008
Rome 1508: Pope Julius II wages war and commisions works of art all for the greater glory of God and the Church. Amongst the artists he commisions is Michelangelo (Charlton Heston), a headstrong sculpture.
For his newest commision Julius wants Michelangelo to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chaple, something Michelangelo is dead set against. A battle of wills begins between the two men yet Michelangelo becomes consumed by the ceiling, suffering for the completion of what will be his master work.
The Agony and The Ecstasy is an amazing, if somewhat long, film. Heston (one of the greatest actors ever IMHO) is amazing as the artist so consumed by his craft to endure the scorn of those around him and live apart from the only woman who could ever love him.
Rex Harrison is Hestons equal as Julius.Harrison is convincing as the vainglorious, yet devout, pope, who finds in Michelangelo a man of greater faith then his own. One of the best historical epics ever.
This review of The Agony and the Ecstasy (1965) was written by Jim M on 26 Aug 2008.
The Agony and the Ecstasy has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
