Once again the screen explodes with rage, passion and greatness!

Starring: Richard Burton, Peter O'Toole, John Gielgud, Gino Cervi, Paolo Stoppa, Donald Wolfit, David Weston, Martita Hunt, Pamela Brown, Percy Herbert, Sian Phillips, Inigo Jackson

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★☆☆ - great

"It's funny! It's too funny! Becket is the only intelligent man in my kingdom, and he's against me!" - King Henry II

Why watch this? Many of England's kings ruled as spoiled, contemptuous brats.

Plot Summary: King Henry II of England appoints his close friend and confident, Thomas Becket, as Archbishop of Canterbury, expecting him to be a compliant ally against the Church. Instead, Becket undergoes a moral awakening and embraces his spiritual duties, causing him to place the honor of God above his loyalty to the king. This fundamental shift in allegiance shatters their friendship, turning the two men into bitter enemies and forcing a violent showdown.

Dad's Preview: Based on the 1959 play by Jean Anouih, this British historical romp documents the relationship between England's King Henry II and his friend and advisor Thomas Becket. This film literally transports us to that time in history amid castles and massive Victorian churches. O'Toole and Burton give career-defining performances as two men who have deep feelings for one another, yet become bitter rivals. The film serves up the monarchy as a spoiled den of debauchers, accustomed to destroying those they've conquered - this is aptly personified by O'Toole's ranting portrayal of Henry II. Burton is the opposite. He's collected, sympathetic, smart; and he must weigh his newfound faith against the King's expectations. This mediaeval epic is chock full of lavish scenes, beautiful cinematography and eccentric performances.

Hal Wallis Productions; Paramount Pictures