The Robe (1953)

VHS CASE/SIDE

Length of film:  135 Minutes

Rated: PG

Genre: Drama

Director: Henry Koster

Starring: Richard Burton, Jean Simmons, Victor Mature, Michael Rennie, Jay Robinson, Dean Jagger

IMDB Rank: 6.7/10

Part 1 Time:  92 Minutes

Part 2 Time:  43 Minutes

***Originally released in roadshow format having an overture, intermission, and exit music. All subsequent releases have excluded the roadshow format.

Where does the first part end? Marcellus Gallio (Richard Burton) pledges his allegiance to Christianity. Peter (Michael Rennie) and Marcellus walk off together.

Final line of dialogue on the first part: “From this day on, i’m enlisted in his service. I offer him my sword, my fortune, and my life. And this I pledge you my honour as a Roman.” Marcellus Gallio walks with Peter.

First line of dialogue on the second part: “The emperor will see you now.” Caligula’s assistant directs Diana (Jean Simmons) to the Roman throne room.

How jarring is it when the first part ends? Somewhat, Marcellus Gallio has proven to be an ally of Christianity by fighting off the Roman soldiers. How will his allegiance to follow the word of Jesus impact his duty as a Roman tribune, to maintain Roman traditions and beliefs?

Which part is better? Part one focuses on anguish felt by Marcellus Gallio, as he is tormented by nightmares and delusions pertaining to his involvement with Jesus’ execution. Marcellus Gallio feels he is cursed by the robe that was once Jesus’. Part two, has Marcellus Gallio accept Christianity and the word of god. Part two is given a slight advantage as Marcellus Gallio defends his turn to Christianity and stands up to the Roman empire.

Academy Awards: Best Art Direction- Set Decoration Colour, Best Costume Design Colour, Best Picture (Nominated), Best Leading Actor (Nominated- Richard Burton), Best Cinematography Colour (Nominated)