The Robe
Drunk and disillusioned Roman, Marcellus Gallio, wins Jesus' robe in a dice game after the crucifixion. Marcellus has never been a man of faith like his slave, Demetrius, but when Demetrius escapes with the robe, Marcellus experiences disturbing visions and feels guilty for his actions. Convinced that destroying the robe will cure him, Marcellus sets out to find Demetrius — and discovers his Christian faith along the way.
Critics Sentiment
Marcellus outbids Caligula for Demetrius at auction
Marcellus travels to Cana seeking Demetrius
The film peaks early with Jay Robinson's memorable Caligula performance, then sags significantly during the middle journey sequences before recovering with Victor Mature's powerful torture scene.
The Robe starts strong with excellent Roman pageantry and Jay Robinson's scene-stealing Caligula, but becomes ponderous and overly long in its middle sections. While the religious themes are handled with reverence and the performances are generally solid, the film struggles to maintain momentum once Burton's character undergoes his spiritual transformation.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 29
Richard Burton
Marcellus Gallio
Jean Simmons
Diana
Victor Mature
Demetrius
Richard Boone
Pontius Pilate
Leon Askin
Abidor
Michael Rennie
Peter
Dean Jagger
Justus
Jay Robinson
Caligula
Torin Thatcher
Sen. Gallio
Betta St. John
Miriam
Jeff Morrow
Paulus
Ernest Thesiger
Emperor Tiberius
Dawn Addams
Junia
Bess Flowers
Spectator at Caligula's court (uncredited)
Pamela Robinson
Lucia (uncredited)
Michael Ansara
Judas (uncredited)
Percy Helton
Caleb, the wine merchant (uncredited)
Nicolas Koster
Jonathan (uncredited)
Thomas Browne Henry
Marius, the physician (uncredited)
Rosalind Ivan
Julia (uncredited)
Crew
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