HELEN OF TROY
Excellent as far as 1950s grand-scale extravaganzas go. Directed by Robert Wise. This is a highly entertaining historical drama depicting the events surrounding the Trojan War in 1200 B.C. based on the bard Homer?s epic poem The Iliad. Obviously, a blend of fact and fiction. However, all the
well-known characters with their rivalries and personal conflicts are represented in the enormous cast of thousands (i.e. about 30,000), notably Queen Helen of Sparta and her lover Prince Paris of Troy, whose star-crossed affair is reputed to have sparked the open hostilities. Look for appearances by Sir Cedric Hardwicke as King Priam, Harry Andrews as Hector, and Brigitte Bardot as Andraste, Queen Helen?s young handmaiden.
Shot on location. Awesome battle scenes re-enacted in all their regal pomp and ostentatious spectacle are truly impressive, including the en masse approach of the combined Greek fleet, the invading army?s massive offensive maneuvers across the Phrygian plain, the storming of the gates (and the defending of the city by the Trojans), individual hand-to-hand combat on foot, in chariots and on the ramparts. Interesting display of ancient weaponry by warriors of both sides in full battle dress and regalia. Not surprising that the production cost reached a staggering $6 million?a big chunk of change in the year 1955 for any feature film. Narration sequences provide background information and move the action along to round out the extended 10-year siege before the city is finally overtaken by the attacking Greek invaders with the help of their legendary Trojan Horse. A neat way to learn about ancient history for general audiences.
February 4, 2010
