Becket

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Buy This Item Becket by MPI Home Video  Available from Amazon  $18.99  on 8-31-2008     Made in 1964, but set in 12th-century England, this is the fact-based story of Henry II (Peter O'Toole) and his dear friend, the Archbishop of Canterbury (Richard Burton). When the king appoints his former drinking buddy to the high religious office, he believes he has placed an ally into power. Instead, he learns that Thomas very much takes his job to heart, prompting Henry to ask that fateful question--"Will no one rid me of this meddlesome priest?" <P> This won an Academy Award for Best Screenplay, and it is a strong example of finely tuned performances--both leading men received Academy Award nominations for their roles. There is much passion and rage on the screen, but the beauty of their performances is that we always know that love is there as well. The film, shot on location in England, is also visually appealing. Trivia buffs may be interested to know that Peter O'Toole played Henry II four years later in <i>The Lion in Winter</i>. <I>--Rochelle O'Gorman</I> Reader Reviews A truly great film from costumes to cinematography, to the acting itself. Richard Burton was spectacular in his role as Thomas Beckett. and O Toole's role as Henry II was absolutely his greatest performance. The story was told with as much historical accuracy as modern film would allow. Burton's excommunication of Lord Gilbert raised the hair on my neck. The drama of that scene stands far above anything I've ever seen. It is a tribute to Burton that he underplayed his role so as not to overshadow that of O Toole, but in so doing, he really stole the movie. I recommend this movie to anyone who is interested in the intrigue of the British Crown, and all that goes with it. The association of the church and the power structure regardless of country has always been of major interest to me. This movie illustrates that connection quite well.

Becket Available from Amazon Price: $18.99 Updated on 8-31-2008.

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