The Silver Chalice is a difficult film to rate. On one hand, it's too long and too talky, with a jarring mismatch of old and new acting styles. On the other hand, its production design is just bizarre. It's as if the studio said, "We can't afford any elaborate sets for this, so just hire some graphic artists to whip up some matte paintings inspired by ... Giorgio di Chirico!"
Honestly, this has to be seen to be believed. At times, the cast seem to be stuck in a cartoon world, like Julie Andrews and Dick van Dyke in Mary Poppins. Except for the actual sand dunes that provide the setting for one outdoor episode, none of the sets are realistic. Instead, they all look like things designed for the big ballet in an Astaire or Kelly MGM musical.
In other respects, the film alternates between boring and campy. Jack Palance seems to be enjoying himself as a flamboyantly evil magician. Virginia Mayo is saddled with over-the-top mantrap eye makeup. Alexander Scourby finds his niche as Mr. Bible. Paul Newman struggles to make his sincere portrayal register amid all the craziness.
It's unique.
Honestly, this has to be seen to be believed. At times, the cast seem to be stuck in a cartoon world, like Julie Andrews and Dick van Dyke in Mary Poppins. Except for the actual sand dunes that provide the setting for one outdoor episode, none of the sets are realistic. Instead, they all look like things designed for the big ballet in an Astaire or Kelly MGM musical.
In other respects, the film alternates between boring and campy. Jack Palance seems to be enjoying himself as a flamboyantly evil magician. Virginia Mayo is saddled with over-the-top mantrap eye makeup. Alexander Scourby finds his niche as Mr. Bible. Paul Newman struggles to make his sincere portrayal register amid all the craziness.
It's unique.