The Robe (1953)

My Review

The Biblical epic film “The Robe” tells the story of a Roman tribunal officer who commanded the unit responsible for the crucifixion of Jesus. He wins Jesus’ robe in a dice game, and experiences guilt for his actions when one of his men steals it. He sets out on a search for the robe, and discovers more than he bargained for. Director Henry Koster (“Stars and Stripes Forever” 1952) put together an excellent movie with good production values, classic performances, and great writing. The screenplay by Gina Kaus, Albert Maltz, and Philip Dunne was adapted from the 1942 historical novel of the same name by Lloyd C. Douglas.

The cast includes Richard Burton as Tribune Gallio, Jean Simmons as girl friend Diana, Victor Mature as the soldier who stole the robe, Michael Rennie as Peter, Jay Robinson as Caligula, Torin Thatcher as Senator Gallio, Richard Boone as Pontius Pilate, and Dean Jagger as Justus. The very watchable Technicolor movie “The Robe” was popular in theatrical release for 20th Century Fox.