El Cid

Arguably the best of Hollywood producer Samuel Bronston's made-in-Spain (for the cheap labor) epic extravaganzas, director Anthony Mann's retelling of the medieval hero Rodrigo Diaz de Bivar's (aka "El Cid") story is an occasionally poignant reminder of the lush spectacles of bygone days. Charlton Heston is the stoic "Cid" who, as the story opens, is prepared to marry the beautiful Chimene (Sophia Loren), daughter of the king's champion. Sidetracked into a battle with the Moors, Heston not only misses his wedding, but because of a quick succession of incidents, ends up whacking Loren's papa. Needless to say, Sophia withholds her charms, and immediately begins searching for an "avenger." As numerous attempts to kill the "Cid" fail, Heston works his way up the political ladder until be becomes the king's champion. Unfortunately, the death of the king leaves the kingdom divided between his two pasty-faced sons. In the midst of the all the new court intrigue and squabbling between the brothers, the "Cid" struggles against the Moorish infidels, and continues his quest to unite and protect an independent Spain. In the face of such unselfish loyalty and courage, Sophia capitulates and joins the "Cid." While Heston and Loren are about as suited for one another as Lawrence Welk and Madonna, the sweeping battle scenes (which reportedly employed about half of the Spanish army) and panoramic Spanish vistas are truly awesome. Patrons with a yen for the days when movies literally featured a "cast of thousands" will enjoy this mammoth production, on two cassettes and budget-priced for video. Recommended. (R. Pitman)