Constantine and the Cross

Constantine and the Cross, a historical drama from 1961, is a sweeping cinematic tale that captures the life and times of one of history's most transformative emperors, Constantine the Great, portrayed by Cornel Wilde. The film takes us back to the tumultuous period of the early 4th century AD, a time when the Roman Empire was vast but plagued by internal strife and the persecution of Christians. Against this backdrop, the movie weaves a narrative of political intrigue, personal ambition, religious turmoil, and the quest for understanding and acceptance.

At the heart of Constantine and the Cross is the character of Constantine himself, a figure whose ascension to power is as fraught with danger and intrigue as it is marked by his own internal moral struggle. Cornel Wilde's performance encapsulates the stoicism and intensity required for the role, as he depicts Constantine's journey from ambitious military leader to a ruler whose name would be etched into history – not only for his political conquests but also for his pivotal role in shaping the future of Christianity.

Belinda Lee co-stars as Fausta, adding depth and nuance to the complex political and emotional landscape in which Constantine operates. As the daughter of the reigning Emperor Maximian, played by Massimo Serato, Fausta is a figure of both political import and personal intrigue, serving as a catalyst for some of the film's most pivotal moments. Her presence adds a layer of romance and drama that enriches the historical context.

The film opens with a backdrop of a Rome gripped by turmoil. The empire, vast and unwieldy, is under the rule of a tetrarchy – four emperors sharing power in an uneasy alliance. The old religion of pagan gods is pitted against the emergent Christianity, which, despite enduring severe persecutions, continues to grow in both numbers and influence. Enter Constantine, a young and ambitious commander of Britain's Roman legions, who, upon receiving word of his father’s illness, embarks on a perilous journey to be at his side.

As the film progresses, we are witness to the power struggles within the Roman ruling class, where betrayal and alliance shift like sand. The portrayal of Constantine's rise to power is steeped in the realpolitik of the time, and the film doesn't shy away from showcasing the brutality and cunning necessary to navigate such treacherous waters. Throughout it all, Constantine's personal evolution, from a general set on securing his legacy to a ruler contemplating the sacredness of faith and life, serves as a compelling narrative thread.

Director Lionello De Felice, with a deft touch, brings to life the pageantry and spectacle of ancient Rome, not only in its grandeur but also in its capacity for horror. We see the contrast of the decadent imperial life with the plight of Christians thrown into the Colosseum, set to face a gruesome fate for the entertainment of the masses. However, the film's portrayal of these darker elements is deliberately restrained, striving to place greater emphasis on the moral choices and implications for the characters involved.

One of Constantine’s most significant moments, which is pivotal within the film too, is his fateful experience before the Battle of Milvian Bridge. This experience is a turning point, one that will not only determine the outcome of a crucial military engagement but also set Constantine on a path that will ultimately lead to the Edict of Milan – providing legal tolerance for Christianity within the Empire.

Throughout the film, the score composed by Angelo Francesco Lavagnino complements the epic narrative, enhancing the mood of valor and the weight of destiny that surrounds the main character. The scenic design and costuming immerse viewers in a believable recreation of an empire at a crossroads, where every gilded hall and bloodstained battlefield contributes to the painting of an era on the brink of profound change.

While some creative liberties are taken for dramatic effect, as is common in historical dramas, Constantin and the Cross aims to be somewhat faithful to the spirit of the real historical events. The result is a film that not only entertains but educates, providing a window into a transformative moment in the Western world.

As a cinematic experience, Constantine and the Cross stands as a work that aspires to blend grand historical drama with a thoughtful portrayal of a leader grappling with the divine and temporal powers. The focus on Constantine’s internal battle, as much as on his external conquests, makes for a narrative that is at once personal and epic.

Unfolding amid the rugged beauty of the Italian landscape and the splendor of Rome, this tale from 1961 captures a moment when the fate of an empire and the future of a major world religion were at stake, making it a fascinating watch for those interested in history and the complex figures who shape it.