EXCELLENT EARLY KUBRICK!

Rating: 9/10 (1 November 2004)

One of the few epics of the time period that is Great! Kubrick and Kirk Douglas didn't get along apparently, but the film is right on the money. Laurence Olivier gives a masterful performance as Crassus, a powerful military man enjoying the fruits of his labor. Kirk Douglas in intense and human, Peter Ustinov (OSCAR winner) is hilarious, Charles Laughton majestic, and Jean Simmons beautiful and touching. The battle scenes are intense and incredible.
A 9 out of 10. Best performance = L. Olivier. Except for LAWRENCE OF ARABIA, the best epic of the time period. Blows away Charlton Heston's BEN-HUR. Check it out! Excellent cinematography and scope. Don't be a snob by avoiding this one!