Starring:
Year of Release: 1949
Rated: Not Rated
Director: Cecil B. DeMille
Approx. Running Time: 131 minutes
Format(s): DVD
My Rating: 2 stars (Out of 5)
Trailer:
From Back Cover (of DVD):
Everyone is familiar with the Old Testament tale of the mighty Samson and the treacherous Delilah, and how the strong man was robbed of his powers once the biblical femme fatale sheared off his locks. This 1950 version is retold in splashy Cecil B. Demille style, with Technicolor that practically jumps off the screen and larger-than-life portrayals all around. Even for those who aren't fond of costume dramas, this is an engrossing version of the age-old yarn. The drop-dead-gorgeous Hedy Lamarr plays the vindictive Delilah to Victor Mature's ultra virile Samson. Mature uses his expressive features to full advantage, melting hearts as the vulnerable Samson sans curls. The only problems are an unintentionally funny struggle between Samson and a phony-looking lion and the somewhat implausible idea of Angel Lansbury playing Samson's older sister. It's a grand-scale biblical drama, entertaining and fun, with good performances throughout and lavish production values. Hollywood just doesn't make 'em like this anymore.
My Comments:
This movie was never released on DVD in the U.S. The DVD copy in my collection is a pirated Asian import. I have not yet watched the disc, so I don't know how well it plays or if it is subtitled.
This is a pretty typical swords-and-sandals film of its day. It's overly long, poorly acted and features really bad special effects, but the pomp, spectacle, and grandeur of the sets make it an interesting watch.
Go Back:
S
Not Rated (MPAA)
2 Stars
1940's (Year Of Release)
Romance
Historical Features
Main Index