Barabbas
Epic account of the thief Barabbas, who was pardoned for his crimes and spared crucifixion when Pilate offered the Israelites a choice to pardon Barabbas or Jesus. Struggling with his spirituality, Barabbas goes through many ordeals leading him to the gladiatorial arena, where he tries to win his freedom and confront his inner demons, ultimately becoming a follower of the man who was crucified in his place.
Critics Sentiment
Barabbas fights and kills Torvald in the gladiatorial arena
Barabbas endures twenty years of hellish existence in mines
The film surges from its lowest point during the sulfur mine years to spectacular heights with the earthquake collapse and subsequent gladiator sequences.
Critics consistently praise the film's opening crucifixion sequence and climactic arena battle while identifying significant pacing issues during the middle sulfur mine section. The overall reception reflects appreciation for Anthony Quinn's performance and Jack Palance's villainous turn, though some reviewers note the film struggles with balancing spectacle against its more thoughtful philosophical themes.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 90
Anthony Quinn
Barabbas
Silvana Mangano
Rachel
Arthur Kennedy
Pontius Pilate
Katy Jurado
Sara
Harry Andrews
Peter
Vittorio Gassman
Sahak
Norman Wooland
Rufio
Valentina Cortese
Julia
Jack Palance
Torvald
Ernest Borgnine
Lucius
Arnoldo Foà
Joseph of Arimathea
Michael Gwynn
Lazarus
Laurence Payne
Disciple
Douglas Fowley
Vasasio
Guido Celano
Scorpio
Enrico Glori
Man Pleading for Release of Prisoner
Carlo Giustini
Officer (as Carlo Giutini)
Giovanni Di Benedetto
Officer (as Gianni Di Benedetto)
Robert Hall
Commander of Gladiators
Rina Braido
Tavern Reveler
Crew
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