Review of The Great Caruso (1951) by Jonathan B — 10 Aug 2015

A 1950s Technicolor and, it seems, largely fictional biopic Caruso which is saved by having some glorious operatic scenes portrayed by Mario Lanza. Lanza was at the height of his popularity when this movie was made and it is easy to see why he was so popular as he has a magnificent voice which more than does the music justice.

Caruso had the fortune to be around at the dawn of the gramophone age and became a huge star all over the world due to the popularity of his live performances and recordings. Between the musical numbers, the movie is pretty unremarkable and follows a fairly well worn path without any surprises.

However, when Lanza plays to his strength and just sings, you can forgive the clumsy acting and formulaic structure.