A star-studded cast puts on what has been often said to be the greatest Julius Caesar ever filmed.
Nearly everyone knows the story of Julius Caesar and his assassination in the Roman Senate House in 44 BC, but to see it dramatized by such a cast in such a lavish production brings the point home in a way that has to be seen to be appreciated.
John Houseman produced and Joseph Mankiewicz directed Shakespeare's play, using an all star cast. Many of the cast were noted British actors, except for the surprising but inspired choice of Marlon Brando, who made a sensational Mark Antony, Louis Calhern, an imposing Caesar, and Edmond O'Brien, an equally good Casca. Other major players include James Mason, as Brutus John Gielgud, as Cassius, Greer Garson as Caesar's wife Calpurnia, and Deborah Kerr, as Brutus' wife Portia. All of the bit parts were executed with aplomb as well.
The plotting originates with Cassius and Casca, but before they can implement their design they must get Brutus, a man close to Caesar's heart, to conspire with them. The fact that Caesar has made it known he wishes to be king is what clinches it for republican Brutus. Now, they all have their sharp daggers concealed in their togas as they converge on the Senate House. On their way, they call on Caesar to escort him. Caesar graciously serves them wine before they leave together to their appointment with destiny.
The photography and sets are fabulous and it is very difficult to believe that much of the scenery is a sound stage and not the actual locations. Costumes are also excellent, with sumptuous togas and diaphanous form fitting dresses on the ladies. The props, especially the military uniforms, armor, and weapons are a little cheesy and could have been done better. The shields appear to be cardboard covered with metallic paint.
But the dialogue is electrifying, with Mark Antony's funeral speech a standout: Friends, Romans, countrymen lend me your ears. I have come to bury Caesar, not to praise him. The evil that men do lives after them, the good is oft interred with their bones. So let it be with Caesar. Antony's oration inflames the crowd and causes the conspirators to flee for their lives.
Up until 1989's Henry V, by Kenneth Branagh, this was the greatest Shakespeare play brought to the screen. Now, it has been eclipsed by Branagh's brilliant effort, but it is still very much worthwhile to view this classic example of Hollywood film making at its best.
Other great adaptations of Shakespeare include, Branagh's Much Ado About Nothing, Orson Welles' MacBeth and Othello, Laurence Olivier's Henry V and Hamlet, and Mel Gibson's Hamlet.
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