The Robe is a biblical epic that tells the story of Marcellus Gallio, a Roman military tribune who presides over the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. After winning Jesus’ robe in a dice game, Marcellus experiences a profound spiritual transformation, leading him to question his beliefs and ultimately embrace Christianity. The film explores themes of faith, redemption, and the clash between the Roman Empire and the emerging Christian movement.
Genre: Drama, Historical, Biblical Epic
Director: Henry Koster
Henry Koster, born Hermann Kosterlitz on May 1, 1905, in Berlin, Germany, was a prominent film director known for his humanistic storytelling. Fleeing Nazi Germany in 1933 due to his Jewish heritage, Koster found success in Hollywood, directing films such as Three Smart Girls (1936), The Bishop’s Wife (1947), and Harvey (1950). The Robe (1953) was his most significant box office hit and the first feature film released in CinemaScope. Koster passed away on September 21, 1988, in Camarillo, California.
Star Cast:
- Richard Burton as Marcellus Gallio
- Jean Simmons as Diana
- Victor Mature as Demetrius
- Michael Rennie as Peter
- Jay Robinson as Caligula
- Dean Jagger as Justus
- Torin Thatcher as Senator Gallio
- Richard Boone as Pontius Pilate
- Betta St. John as Miriam
- Jeff Morrow as Centurion Paulus
- Ernest Thesiger as Emperor Tiberius
- Dawn Addams as Junia
- Leon Askin as Abidor
The Robe was a commercial success, setting box office records upon its release. It earned an estimated $17.5 million in theatrical rentals in the United States and Canada during its initial release and approximately $32 million worldwide. Critics praised the film’s use of CinemaScope and its visual grandeur. However, some reviews noted that the story’s emotional depth was overshadowed by the film’s spectacle. The film holds a 38% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 21 reviews.
Fun Facts:
- The Robe was the first feature film released in CinemaScope, a widescreen format that revolutionized the film industry.
- The film’s original soundtrack, composed by Alfred Newman, was later released in a two-CD set by Varèse Sarabande in 2003.
- A sequel to The Robe, titled Demetrius and the Gladiators, was released in 1954, continuing the story of Victor Mature’s character, Demetrius.
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