Worthy, wordy sweeping historical drama as King Henry II ascends to the English throne with closest friend and confidant, Thomas à Becket, at his side.
Full of energy, drive and something of a womaniser, Henry (Peter O’Toole – Lawrence of Arabia, My Favourite Year) has little time for the objections of the Church to his confrontational style of reign. Seizing the opportunity to install Becket (Richard Burton – Equus, The Robe) as the Archbishop of Canterbury on the assumption his partner-in-crime would be compliant to his wishes and demands, Henry quickly discovers Becket has discovered a greater calling.
As a Saxon in the Norman court, Becket and his new found beliefs causes a rift between the two men and ultimately between State and Church resulting in a powerfully cinematic sparring between the two major stars. But, adapted from the stage play by Jean Anouilh and directed by Peter Glenville (The Comedians, Summer and Smoke), Becket lacks (seeing it 60 years after it was made) a sense of grandeur or gravitas, resulting in an engrossing if somewhat dull telling of a version of history.
Nominated for 12 Oscars in 1965 including best film, director, actor x2, supporting actor (John Gielgud), cinematography. won 1 (adapted screenplay- Edward Anhalt).
Rating: 62%
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