Doctor Faustus
by Richard Burton, Nevill Coghill
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DVD Cover Information
Actor: Andreas Teuber, Elizabeth Taylor, Oxford University Dramatic Society, Richard BurtonDirector: Nevill Coghill, Richard Burton
Brand: Sony
DVD: Region Code 99
Audio: English (Unknown), Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono; English (Subtitled); French (Subtitled); Georgian (Subtitled); English (Original Language), Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono
Format: Anamorphic, Closed-captioned, Color, DVD, NTSC, Subtitled, Widescreen
Picture Format: Anamorphic Widescreen, 1.78:1
Running Time: 93 minutes
DVD Release Date: 2004-03-02
Audience Rating: Unrated
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Movie Reviews of Doctor Faustus
Movie Review: "Tell me, Faustus, shall I have thy soul?"
Summary: 5 Stars
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This movie is based on the play "The Tragical History of Dr. Faustus" (1588) by Christopher Marlowe (1564 to 1593).
The movie begins with the printed word:
"A tragic legend written down in the sixteenth century wherein a learned scientist honored with the laurels of his university, sold his soul to the devil for still greater knowledge and power in the unknown."
This brief introduction also summarizes the entire movie (except for the ending).
Dr. Faustus (the legendary Richard Burton, 1925 to 1984) actually signs a contract in his own blood with Mephistopheles (a disciple of the devil played by Andreas Teuber) present (and who asks the question that titles this review). Faustus is unsure of his decision but quickly adapts to his new life gaining not only power but other delights including the satisfaction of his lust for Helen of Troy (Elizabeth Taylor), "the face that launch'd a thousand ships." Besides he is told that,
"In Hell is all manner of delight."
But when Faustus begins to strongly regret his decision, it's too late and he has nothing to look forward too but "eternal damnation."
This movie is a tour de force for Richard Burton (who also co-directed and co-produced). The almost Shakespearean dialogue flows off his tongue and his acting as Dr. Faustus is superb. I sensed that he was really enjoying this role.
Surprisingly, Andreas Teuber who plays Mephistopheles (this was his first major movie role) also gives a convincing performance as the devil's assistant.
Be aware that Elizabeth Taylor as Helen has no speaking parts in this movie. At the end, she laughs wickedly.
The scenery and costumes were, I felt, fantastic. All filming took place in Rome. The background music adds to each scene.
A note on the language. Above I said it was "almost Shakespearean." This is because I find that Marlowe's language is not nearly as difficult to understand as Shakespeare's. However, I still recommend turning on the English subtitles. (Those viewers who are used to Elizabethan language should easily understand this movie.)
I should mention that this movie was put down by critics when it first came out. For myself, I can't understand why. This movie stayed with me long after I finished watching it (mainly due to Richard Burton's performance).
Finally, the DVD itself (the one released in 2004) is perfect in picture and sound quality. It has no significant extras.
In conclusion, in my opinion, this movie brings Christopher Marlow's classic play to life! By the end of it you will definitely know that
"the reward of sin is death."
(1967; 90 min; wide screen; 28 scenes)
<<Stephen Pletko or "Uncle Stevie," London, Ontario, Canada>>
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Summary of Doctor Faustus
The legend of Doctor Faustus is the immortal tale of a German conjurer who sells his soul to the devil in exchange for a life of adventure and excitement. Richard Burton stars as the aging scholar who makes a deal with the devil for youth, knowledge, and a dazzling mistress. Taylor plays the spellbinding seductress who seals Faustus? fate. Stars Academy AwardŽ nominee Richard Burton and Academy AwardŽ winner Elizabeth Taylor.Similar DVD Movies
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