Review of The Robe (1953) by Eric C — 31 Mar 2013
One of the classic 50s epics. I think part of what makes it so timeless is the duality of the thinly veiled dialogue. On one hand it cheesily tells us Bible stories, on the other it lambasts totalitarianism and trumpets freedom.
It's a perfect encapsulation of the Red Scare era and, ironically, that's what makes it timeless. You're so happy to root for Marcellus or the slave or the random Christians they encounter along the way because they help out the little guy and believe in the true God.
At the same time you love to hate the overbearing Romans because they trample freedom with their subservience and glorification of the state. Richard Burton tries to be Charlton Heston or Kirk Douglas and although he fails, he gets points for effort.
This review of The Robe (1953) was written by Eric C on 31 Mar 2013.
The Robe has generally received positive reviews.
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