The Sign of the Cross (1932) Review in 2025
A 1932 historical epic film directed by Cecil B. DeMille, starring Fredric March and Claudette Colbert, set in ancient Rome during the reign of Emperor Nero.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This film is not suitable for young children due to its mature themes, violence, and historical content.
CineReview Recommendation
This film is worth watching for its historical significance, epic scope, and memorable performances. However, it may not be suitable for all audiences due to its mature themes and violence.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film tells the story of Marcus Vinicius, a Roman general who falls in love with a Christian woman, Pontius Pilate's wife, and becomes embroiled in the early Christian movement, leading to a dramatic confrontation with Nero.
Review Details
story7.00/10
The story is engaging, but it feels a bit disjointed and lacks coherence at times. The pacing is slow, and the plot twists are somewhat predictable.
acting7.00/10
The acting is solid, with Fredric March and Claudette Colbert delivering standout performances. However, some of the supporting actors feel like they're phoning it in.
characters6.00/10
The characters are well-developed, but some of them feel like caricatures. The chemistry between Marcus Vinicius and Pontius Pilate's wife is convincing, but the rest of the cast is somewhat one-dimensional.
direction8.00/10
Cecil B. DeMille's direction is masterful, as always. He brings the ancient world to life with his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to balance action, drama, and romance.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with stunning shots of the Roman Empire's grandeur and the beauty of the Mediterranean landscape.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Sign of the Cross is a visually stunning film with a compelling story and memorable performances. Cecil B. DeMille's direction is masterful, and the cinematography is breathtaking.
Cons
The pacing is slow, and the plot twists are somewhat predictable. Some of the characters feel like caricatures, and the supporting actors are somewhat one-dimensional.
Notable Quotes
"I am not a Roman, I am a Christian."
"The sign of the cross is the sign of our faith."
"We are not afraid of death, for we know that we will be resurrected."
