The First Legion (1951)

Synopsis: In this thoughtful drama directed by Douglas Sirk (IMITATION OF LIFE, WRITTEN ON THE WIND), Charles Boyer is Father Marc Arnoux, a Jesuit priest who investigates a seeming miracle in his community.... In this thoughtful drama directed by Douglas Sirk (IMITATION OF LIFE, WRITTEN ON THE WIND), Charles Boyer is Father Marc Arnoux, a Jesuit priest who investigates a seeming miracle in his community. The purported miracle, performed by an atheist doctor on a crippled priest, revives the flagging belief of a number of other priests in Father Arnoux's Jesuit seminary. This leaves Father Arnoux with the burden of potentially undercutting their renewed faith with his investigation. The story is made particularly poignant by Boyer's quietly moving portrayal, as well as other notable performances, including that of William Demarest, who is cast effectively against type as Monsignor Michael Carey. Unlike many of Sirk's films, THE FIRST LEGION was shot on location rather than in a Hollywood studio and in black and white, which contributes to a decidedly gritty visual style. The look of the film helps the movie avoid the lighthearted piety found in most of the films of the time concerned with faith and divine mystery. [More]

Starring: Charles Boyer, Barbara Rush, William Demarest, Leo G. Carroll

Starring: Charles Boyer, Barbara Rush, William Demarest, Leo G. Carroll, Lyle Bettger, Walter Hampden, George Zucco, Taylor Holmes, Wesley Addy, H.B. Warner, John McGuire

Director: Douglas Sirk

Director: Douglas Sirk
Screenwriter: Emmett Lavery
Producer: Douglas Sirk
Composer: Hans Sommer

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