Becket

Star Review

Adapted from the Tony-winning play by Jean Anouilh, Becket is the kind of film that Hollywood has decided not to make any more. Instead of pandering to the lowest common denominator in the hope of scooping the biggest possible profit, it attempts to tackle complex issues with a gravitas that reflects the intelligence of its makers and the aspirations of its audience.
Becket tells the notorious tale of the turbulent 12th century relationship between King Henry II of England (Peter O'Toole) and his closest advisor and friend, Thomas Becket (Richard Burton). Burton and O'Toole are magnificent and watching the two together on screen is a real pleasure. Aided by Henry Anhalt's Oscar-winning witty yet human screenplay they create characters that are as fatally human as they are politically intransigent. Becket begins as a man with fleeting concepts of honour, happy to accompany Henry through his dubious escapades even when he sees fault in his friend. However, when promoted to Archbishop of Canterbury, he unexpectedly finds honour (and love) through serving God. This new allegiance quickly brings him into conflict with Henry - a flawed, needy individual who loves and respects Becket beyond any other. Spurned love turns to hate and the conflict escalates, culminating in the famous cry - “Will no-one rid me of this troublesome priest?”
Peter O'Toole holds a unique place in Oscar history, in that he was twice nominated for Best Actor for playing the same character and was overlooked on each occasion. In 1965, his portrayal of Henry II in Becket was pipped by Rex Harrison's Henry Higgins from My Fair Lady, while his performance as the same monarch in The Lion in Winter was deemed inferior to Cliff Robertson's utterly forgettable display in Charly. In both films, O'Toole holds his own against a screen titan - Richard Burton and Katharine Hepburn respectively.
Becket's 12 Oscar nominations testify to its grandeur. Now, newly restored and available for the first time, it's about time this costume classic was considered on a par with another stand-off between an intemperate Henry and a conscience-driven Thomas - A Man for All Seasons (1966).

David Parkinson on 16th April 2007

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Film Description

One of cinema’s legendary pairings - Richard Burton and Peter O’Toole - plays out the story of the tempestuous friendship between King Henry II and Thomas a Becket. The King appoints his trusted companion to the esteemed position of Archbishop of Canterbury, believing his loyalty will give him control over the church. However Becket takes his new duties seriously and his devotion to God soon brings him into direct conflict with both the State and his lifelong friend.

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The pairing of Richard Burton and Peter O'Toole in this solid adaptation of Anouilh's great play shines as brightly as it did when first released. If only modern cinem... more >

The pairing of Richard Burton and Peter O'Toole in this solid adaptation of Anouilh's great play shines as brightly as it did when first released. If only modern cinema were as ambitious and intelligent as this! Unavailable for twenty years, this Martin Scorsese-approved restoration is essential viewing.
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DVD Extras

• Newly restored
• Peter O'Toole commentary
• A Tapestry of Music: Laurence Rosenthal on his score for Becket
• Interview with editor Anne V. Coates
• Lobby card gallery.

Film Details

Cast

John Gielgud, Richard Burton, Peter O Toole, Donald Wolfit

Technical Details