This film is perhaps one of the least known of Hollywood's extensive list of biblical background epics. After leaving the theaters, it was being forgotten due to the little interest of the television channels. I think this lack of interest is due to three factors: the lack of a star cast (Anthony Quinn is the biggest name here), the focus on a secondary biblical character and the invention of a fictional storyline around him. Thus, the plot relates the life and walk of conversion of Barabbas, after having been liberated by acclamation of the Jews, in the events that preceded the crucifixion. Quinn is an excellent actor and manages to endow his character with enormous dramatic and psychological depth. Its worth watching it just for his performance. Vittorio Gassman is equally great thanks to his extraordinary work as Sahek, a convicted Christian who helps Barabbas to overcome his spiritual crisis. Okay, sets and costumes are a far cry from the quality and priceyness of "Quo Vadis" or "Ben Hur", but still satisfy and give the film a classic epic scent. The soundtrack is ordinary.
Review of Barabbas
