Review of The Cardinal (1963) by Steven C — 23 Jun 2007
As a Jew, it feels odd to be liking this movie, but I still do. Long, richly textured in a way few films are now, this is an antidote to the glitz and emptiness of "pop" cinema. Tom Tryon gives a quiet, thoughtful performance, hinting at complexity, but for priestly purposes holding it back.
John Huston is a great Cardinal Glennon, funny without being farcical; Carol Lynley gives dimension to what could have been a one-note role as Tryon's self-destructive sister; and Patrick O'Neal is very good as a bigot who gets away with some pretty nasty dialogue for 1963.
..in reference to a crucifix and a beaten black priest, he says, "Now, the other guy...he was queer for it." Also, Jerome Moross's lovely music.
This review of The Cardinal (1963) was written by Steven C on 23 Jun 2007.
The Cardinal has generally received positive reviews.
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