The Vikings (1958)
Runtime: 2 hrs 4 mins
Synopsis: Einar (Kirk Douglas), a hideously scarred Viking warrior, seeks land acquisition and the hand of the beautiful Princess Morgana (Janel Leigh). Einar crosses paths with Eric (Tony Curtis) who has his sights set on the same prizes. The two have more in common than they know; unbeknownst to one... Einar (Kirk Douglas), a hideously scarred Viking warrior, seeks land acquisition and the hand of the beautiful Princess Morgana (Janel Leigh). Einar crosses paths with Eric (Tony Curtis) who has his sights set on the same prizes. The two have more in common than they know; unbeknownst to one another, they are brothers. This 1958 epic was based on an actual Viking, Ragnar Lothbrok, a sadistic and adventurous sailor. While not very rooted in fact, the film is a rousing adventure with lusty, violent imagery very bold for its time. A scene where Janet Leigh's clothing is ripped, enabling her to row a boat and exposing her back was considered very risque and undoubtedly added to the film's stellar performance at the box office. Ernest Borgnine shines as Ragnar and Jack Cardiff's photography is breathtaking. An opening animated historical prelude is narrated by Orson Welles. [More]
Genre: Action/Adventure
Starring: Kirk Douglas, Ernest Borgnine, Janet Leigh, Tony Curtis, James Donald
Producer: Jerry Bresler
Story: Edison Marshall
Composer: Mario Nascimbene
Screenwriter: Calder Willingham
DVD Info
Release:
May 7, 2002
DVD Features:
- Region 1
- Keep Case
- Anamorphic Widescreen - 2.35
- Single Side - Dual Layer
Audio:
- Dolby Digital Mono - English
- Dolby Digital Mono - Spanish
- Dolby Digital Mono - French
Additional Release Material:
- Audio Commentary - 1. Richard Fleischer - Director
- Trailers - 1. Original Theatrical Trailer
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Reviews
The real stars are the production people, who build the authentic replica ships, dress up the old Viking village, and costume the warriors true to the period.
As the massive battle scenes and convoluted political machinations paraded across the screen, I thought, “This was the Braveheart of the 1950s!” and I was right.


Top Critic