This movie has a fascinating subject, excellent battle scenes, some first-rate performances (Guinness, Mason and Plummer), and stirring music by Tiomkin. So why is it such a crashing disappointment? Well, the supposed love between Boyd and Loren is totally without chemistry, but the central problem is the script, which is the very definition of leaden. Entire scenes are jarringly tedious and without point. Marvellous cinematography, splendid costumes and sets and efficient direction can do nothing in the face of such mediocrity.
Review of The Fall of the Roman Empire
