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This film was the most successful black and white Shakespeare film of the time (with the possible exception of Olivier’s Hamlet) and received five Oscar nominations. Joseph Mankiewicz directed an incredible cast including the great John Gielgud, James Mason, Marlon Brando, Deborah Kerr, Greer Garson amongst others. There are many wonderful performances and cameo roles which contribute to the film’s triumph. Even today there is only one other film adaption of Julius Caesar worth noting, and that is of John Gielgud and Charlton Heston, in a colour version of the 1970s. Therefore, after 60 years, this black and white film remains unique inasmuch as it can still be judged by many as the best screen version of the play. Brando, as Mark Antony, was enthralling and gave one of his best ever performances using contemporary method acting. Another success was the pairing of Gielgud and Mason, who were stunning. Their classical training was revealed in the way they delivered the Bard’s poetry with excellent elocution and clarity. In particular Gielgud’s Machiavellian Cassius was calculating and manipulative; characteristics which are very difficult to portray effectively. As with all black and white films, time constraints meant editing, and with it, serious problems. However at just under two hours, selection of material was handled more delicately than other films. Therefore whilst sub plots, character development and other details had to be omitted, there is still a good balance to the film. Both intellectually and emotionally this film still works, unlike some of Shakespeare’s modern films since then. Oh, if only all of them were as good as this... Read full review
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