Cast
View AllFrancisco Rabal
as Tancredi d'Altavilla
Sylva Koscina
as Clorinda (as Silva Koscina)
Gianna Maria Canale
as Armida
Rik Battaglia
as Rinaldo d'Este
Philippe Hersent
as Goffredo di Buglione
Andrea Aureli
as Argante
Alba Arnova
as Harem Dancer
Nando Tamberlani
as Pietro, eremita
Cesare Fantoni
as Aladino
Edoardo Toniolo
as Raimondo da Tolosa
Carlo Hintermann
as Dilone
Ugo Sasso
as Gernando di Norvegia
Leonardo Bragaglia
as Achille Sforza
Fedele Gentile
as Comandante del presidio
Giulio Battiferri
as Ambasciatore mussulmano
Crew
Director
- Carlo Ludovico Bragaglia
Writer
- Sandro Continenza
Producer
- Ottavio Poggi
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Mighty Crusaders examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Carlo Ludovico Bragaglia brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1957, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Mighty Crusaders took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 149 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1497 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1957, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Mighty Crusaders shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike María Magdalena, pecadora de Magdala, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Mighty Crusaders offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Name of the Rose and The Godfather explore similar territory, The Mighty Crusaders stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 23, 1957
- Runtime: 1h 37m