(1952)
2.5
Michael Costello
As with many of MGM's period pictures of this era, this lavish costume drama's leaden pacing and static camerawork serve to squeeze out most of the potential excitement from this classic Walter Scott adventure. The filmmakers' decision to include much of the exposition from the admittedly complicated novel makes the tale of the brave Saxon knight who has returned to England on a mission to ransom the recently kidnapped Richard the Lionhearted a slow, plot-heavy trudge. The wooden acting of Robert Taylor in the role of Ivanhoe is also not a plus. Nevertheless, there are things to like in the film, such as Alfred Junge's elaborate set design, the costumes of Roger K. Furse, the carefully rendered period weapons, and the talents of an excellent cast including George Sanders, Joan Fontaine, Emlyn Williams, Finlay Currie, and Felix Aylmer. The sight of a young Elizabeth Taylor at the peak of her beauty also gives some scenes a much needed boost.
Ivanhoe on AllMovie
Ivanhoe (1952)
