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Community comment are the opinions of contributing users. These comment do not represent the opinions of Port Moody Public Library.
Dec 07, 2013lukasevansherman rated this title 3 out of 5 stars
Richard Brooks's 1960 adaptation of Sinclair Lewis's novel about a hypocritical, smarmy evangelist. Burt Lancaster plays the lead and won an Oscar for it. Yes, he's over the top, but it works for the role and it's enjoyable to see him in a less than heroic role (although he's better in "Sweet Smell of Success"). Jean Simmons plays the sweet lady evangelist that he falls for, Arthur Kennedy is a skeptical reporter and Shirley Jones is a prostitute who frames Gantry. She's only in a few scenes, but also won an Oscar, as did Brooks for his screenplay. It's a little long, but it takes on religious extravagance in a bold and energetic fashion. Brooks and Lancaster also did the western "The Professionals" together." Note: contrary to the previous comment, no ham is sliced in this film.