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Rating:  - Interesting story, but too drawn out
While the story of Sir Thomas More was interesting, and his scruples commendable, some portions of this film were a bit plodding and slow. However, Robert Shaw was excellent in demonstrating the rash, unpredictable behavior of Henry the VIII.
Rating:  - Tudor Refusnik
Almost all talk but never "talky", this is still one of the finest stage adaptations ever. We enjoy Robert Bolt's rarefied language, but the story moves with crisp economy. The low-brow fun of Showtime's The Tudors, may whet the appetite for additional prospective on the drama's action, but the focus on Moore's fate resonates in each new era as the title suggests. (Roberts Shaw's portrait of a petulant, belligerent ruler convinced he's on God's side certainly rings a bell.)
Marvelous British cast directed with Fred Zinneman's austere understatement. This marks the first great performance by John Hurt, and fans of Rumpole will marvel that Leo McKern plays one of the most hateful prosecutors imaginable. Orson, the lone American is completely convincing without ladling on the English accent. (And why doesn't the great beauty and fine actress Susannah York ever get her due?)
I must say though that this DVD really pushes the definition of the "special edition". There's no commentary of any kind here, either from a historical or filmmaking perspective. There's no material dated from the time of the film's release. The only thing they supply is a brief academic take on Thomas Moore that's 20 minutes long and about 5 of those are scenes from the film!
Rating:  - "A MOVIE FOR ALL SEASONS"
A fine movie about a unique individual.
Today's movies do not come anywher near the quality of these older films
It is a pleasure dealing with Amazon. Prices are reasonable. Delivery is prompt
Rating: - A Masterpiece with very timely subject matter
Robert Bolt--surely one of the greatest screenwriters of the 20th century--appropriated a Christian saint to deal with issues of law, self-hood, and conscience. In an era where the respect of citizens for the law is being more challenged than ever by fears of terrorism, Sir Thomas Moore's words strike like lightning.
The film is subtly directed and leaves plenty of room for its actors to deliver jaw-dropping performances with Bolt's tremendous script. Of particular note is Orson Wells's brief and excellent portrayal of Woolsey.
I'm very grateful that A Man for All Seasons seems to be taught in many highschool classrooms, and can only hope that this film enjoys the long life and fame it so richly deserves.
Rating: - Inspiring, well acted film
I've seen this movie at least 5 times. It's one of those rare films that I can watch over and over and enjoy it as much each time. The cast is fantastic. The film reminds me of the days when actors could act. It's a mistake to miss this one.
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