THE MAGNIFICENT GLADIATOR aka IL MAGNIFICO GLADIATORE (1964)
Running Time: 90 mins. Rating: 2 Stars/5 Stars
MPAA Rating: NR
Director: Alfonso Brescia
Genre: Action/Adventure/Drama
Country: Italy
Language: English dubbed
Distributor: Retromedia Entertainment
Cast: Mark Forest, Marilu Tolo, Paolo Gozlino, Jolanda Modio, Franco Cobianchi, Oreste Lionello, Nazzareno Zamperla, Fedele Gentile
Here is a great example of 1960’s Italian muscle-bound gladiator movies starring Mark Forest. Getting past the somewhat cheesy script and the poorly dubbed scenes, you’ll find a well laid out action packed film.
Our hero Mark Forrest plays Hercules, Royal Prince of the Dacians, who is captured by the Romans and forced to become a gladiator after his defeat in battle. Royal court intrigue has Zulo, Commander to the Emperor’s Praetorian Guards, plotting to overthrow Caesar Galerius in order to seize the throne for himself. Meanwhile, the lovely emperor’s daughter falls in love with the strapping gladiator. Appalled at this, Zulo has him arrested and sentenced to death.
The climax is after Hercules’ escape and eventual clash with Zulo. It’s an epic battle scene of Roman Soldiers versus Gladiators. If nothing else, this excellently choreographed battle is well worth picking up this gem of a nostalgic film.
If you like this recommendations: Hercules Against The Mongols