The Robe (1953)
A Roman tribune's encounter with Christ's robe after the crucifixion ignites a journey of guilt, redemption, and faith in this landmark biblical epic.
The Robe - Movie Information
- Original Title: The Robe
- Release Year: 1953
- Directed by: Henry Koster
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, History
- Age Rating (US): NR
- Runtime: 2h 15m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): September 16, 1953 (Belgium - 18), September 16, 1953 (United States - NR), November 19, 1953 (United Kingdom - U), December 4, 1953 (Germany - 12), December 4, 1953 (France)
- Alternative Titles: La Tunique (FR), 圣袍千秋 (CN), Плащаница (SU), O Manto Sagrado (BR)
- Production Companies: 20th Century Fox
- Production Countries: United States of America
The Robe - Plot
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.
The Robe - Trailer
Watch the official trailer for this groundbreaking 1953 CinemaScope epic:
The first motion picture in CinemaScope--the modern miracle you see without glasses!
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The Robe - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Henry Koster
Main Cast
- Richard Burton
- Jean Simmons
- Victor Mature
- Richard Boone
- Leon Askin
- Michael Rennie
- Dean Jagger
- Jay Robinson
- Torin Thatcher
- Betta St. John
Writers
- Albert Maltz
- Philip Dunne
Producers
- Frank Ross
The Robe - FAQs
Was The Robe the first CinemaScope film ever made?
Yes, The Robe (1953) holds the distinction of being the first feature film released in CinemaScope, 20th Century Fox's widescreen process. The studio debuted the technology to compete with television, and the film's tagline proudly proclaimed it 'the modern miracle you see without glasses,' marking a landmark moment in cinema history.
Where can I stream or watch The Robe?
The Robe is available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. FlixFling also offers it via flat-rate subscription as well as rental and purchase options. Availability may vary by region. Check JustWatch for the most current streaming options near you.
Is The Robe based on a true story?
The Robe is based on Lloyd C. Douglas's 1942 bestselling novel of the same name. While it draws on the historical and biblical account of Jesus' crucifixion, the central characters — including Roman tribune Marcellus Gallio and his slave Demetrius — are fictional. The film blends historical setting with invented narrative rather than depicting documented events.
Who are the main actors in The Robe?
The Robe stars Richard Burton as Roman tribune Marcellus Gallio, Jean Simmons as Diana, and Victor Mature as the slave Demetrius. The supporting cast includes Richard Boone as Pontius Pilate, Jay Robinson as the menacing Emperor Caligula, and Michael Rennie as the Apostle Peter.
Did The Robe win any Academy Awards?
The Robe received five Academy Award nominations at the 26th ceremony, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Richard Burton. It won two Oscars: Best Costume Design (Color) and Best Art Direction-Set Decoration (Color). The film's visual grandeur and production design were widely recognized as exceptional achievements for the era.
What is The Robe about?
The Robe follows Marcellus Gallio, a dissolute Roman tribune who wins Jesus Christ's robe in a dice game at the crucifixion. Haunted by guilt and disturbing visions, he pursues his escaped slave Demetrius — who fled with the robe — and gradually discovers Christian faith amid the brutality of imperial Rome.
How long is The Robe and what is its age rating?
The Robe runs 2 hours and 15 minutes (135 minutes). The film is rated NR (Not Rated) in the United States, as it predates the modern MPAA rating system. It carries a U certificate in the United Kingdom and a 12 rating in Germany, making it broadly suitable for general audiences.
Who directed The Robe and who wrote it?
The Robe was directed by Henry Koster, an Austrian-born Hollywood filmmaker known for his work on prestige productions. The screenplay was written by Philip Dunne, adapting Lloyd C. Douglas's novel, with additional contributions from Albert Maltz. Producer Frank Ross had championed the project for years before it finally reached the screen.
More About The Robe
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