The Agony and the Ecstasy ★★½ 1965 Big-budget (for 1965 anyway at $12 million) adaptation of the Irving Stone book recounts the conflict between Michelangelo and Pope Julius II after His Holiness directs the artist to paint the Sistine Chapel. Follow the tortured artist through his unpredictable creative process and the hours (it seems literal due to movie length) of painting flat on his back. Heston exudes quiet strength in his sincere interpretation of the genius artist, while Harrison has a fling as the Pope. Slow script is not up to the generally good performances. Disappointing at the boxoffice, but worth a look on the small screen for the sets alone. 136m/C VHS, Wide. Charlton Heston, Rex Harrison, Harry Andrews, Diane Cilento, Alberto Lupo, Adolfo Celi;
Director:
Carol Reed;
Writer:
Philip Dunne;
Writer:
Leon Shamroy;
Cameo:
Jerry Goldsmith, Alex North. Natl. Bd. of Review '65: Support. Actor (Andrews).
