Review of The Vikings (1958) by Marcus W — 16 May 2015
As the film began it seemed to me that it was a typical 50's epic without any of the directorial wit of Curtiz, Wyler, DemIlle, etc. While the directing isn't sharp, it at least has plenty of verve.
The rest of of the production makes up for the weak directing with glorious Technicolor, beautiful location shots, and the obviously big budget costumes and props. It's a 50's spectacle film for sure, but Kirk Douglas's performance makes it something more.
As great as Leigh, Curtis, and Borgnine are; they're mostly ho-hum characters with little interest. It's Douglas's performance as the womanizing brawny man that gives the picture serious spice.
Douglas is so complex and brilliant that by the end you're rooting for HIM to beat Curtis's good character! It's partly the writing that ensures Douglas is not stereotyped like his co-stars, but its mainly his spirited personality that makes us love him.
It's the same genius of his that one can see on display in other films like Wilder's "Ace in the Hole" or Kubrick's "Paths of Glory.".
This review of The Vikings (1958) was written by Marcus W on 16 May 2015.
The Vikings has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
