Salomé

"Salomé" is a one-act play written by Oscar Wilde in French. It's a rather obscure play, as it was legal to show it on stage in the UK until many years later. For more on that, read the Wikipedia article on the play.

This filmed version was directed by Al Pacino and I have no idea who it was made for, as it doesn't look like a movie but an avant-garde play put on video. It does not look anything like you'd think the play would look as the players are all wearing modern outfits...normal, everyday clothes at that.

The story is taken from the Gospels and Wilde created a story where the kinky step-daughter of Herod fell for John the Baptist but John rebuffed her advances. So, later, she dances a sexy dance and following this, Herod promised her anything...and things get really weird.

This was an unpleasant film. The language was stilted and old...which is odd with all the modern touches. But most of all, it's boring...boring, boring, boring. I really think the average person would be equally bored...though one of the reviewers found it all 'deeply moving'. I am glad they enjoyed it...I just think Mr. Or Miss Joe Average would NOT enjoy the taped play.

By the way, although this play is based on a Biblical reference, it is NOT a film most religious folks would enjoy due to the nudity in the program....just something to keep in mind.

The drama of power, paternal, marital, prestigious. Herod is caught up in a network of relations and contradictions of their positions. not able to make decisions of the wishes of his daughter the princess Salome. however, even she, his apple, has not decision simple. the drama of three live charactersd courtiers. a riveting range of expressions of the soul of Salome and Herod. so powerful psychodrama is unique. thanks to mr AlPacino, ms. Chastaine

I could not believe that there was only one review of this great film. It was released on DVD together with the documentary 'Wilde Salomé'. A great double package explaining the background, the journey and the making of to good effect. I watched Wilde Salomé first, which I think helped before seeing the 'main course'.

The overall effect was deeply moving - covering the whole range of emotions. I can't say too much more without it being a spoiler.

Some will struggle with the theatrical presentation and modern clothes. However don't let that put you off as the acting and the message are top notch.

It still moves me months later - the sign of a good film.

Highly recommended - when you are in the mood.

Putridly boring. What were they thinking when they decided to make this? These people must've been desperate for a paycheck. They should've just made a movie about Salome as a period piece rather than this play version in modern clothes. It was hard to take them seriously talking like that while wearing suits and dresses.

Even though these people are good actors, they were not here. That's not to say anyone else could've done a better job. I just think the material was...bad. It was such a struggle to stay awake.

There is a topless scene that Jessica Chastain does. It lasts for close to one minute. Throughout the rest of the movie, she keeps a long, red scarf draped over her shoulders covering her breasts.

I gave this a 3-star rating. If you close your eyes and just listen to them, it might be better. However, the modern clothes really took away from the storyline using the old-style way of speaking. I do NOT recommend. There are better ways for people to waste their money.

This woman can change mud into wine, really (like I said, unless it's an action movie, she's not Jesus, after all). I don't know if that's a good thing, but I have almost missed the plot altogether just observing the terrific monster of an actor that she is. Al Pacino could barely keep up, really.

Yes, it's an ancient tragedy and this not really appealing for today's standards. TV-theatre is difficult in itself, I would say. But it's more an acting exercise, take it as it is. Some people here have even complaint about the modern clothing. Come on, people... Just observe the best actress this century has produced and be glad you are alive at the same time.