France, 1640. Cyrano, the charismatic swordsman-poet with the absurd nose, hopelessly loves the beauteous Roxane; she, in turn, confesses to Cyrano her love for the handsome but tongue-tied Christian. The chivalrous Cyrano sets up with Christian an innocent deception, with tragic results.
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I cannot recall being more enraptured with such a divine script and an actor, Jose Ferrer. Despite the poor sound quality, dark sets, and overall low budget production, I was overwhelmed with many unexpected emotions. This actor did not miss even half a beat for every line delivered with pitch perfect delivery and countenance. The obvious protuberance withstanding, nothing felt overtly theatrical but appeared so, definitely a mark of genius. Mr. Ferrer developed his character over the span of hundreds of performances but the film version still was fresh and nuanced.This film is old, B&W with no other well known actors but delivers action, sorrow, joy, laughter and compassion. Perhaps it was just the right moment to explore the depths of unrequited love, impossible to even speak of, yet able to achieve. What a longing this created and expressed through tears unexpected. Where has this all come from? Dumas, Shakespeare, Fitzgerald? Most likely strong influences and a grand tally that redefined cinema.If you have ever felt that depth of feeling for another who has absolutely no clue, or appreciate the power of the word over the sword, this film is definitely for you. Supreme recommend for lovers, dreamers and actors wanting to aspire to stardom. WOW!.
This movie is my favorite movie of all times..Not for any other reason but for Jose Ferrer alone..Never in my life have i seen a performance like that..Sure many will disagree..or they thing differently,but also a ton of others will agree with me..His performance goes beyond anything can anybody expects..This performance should be a standard to all those who aspire to be actors or they think they know what acting is..Watching movies nowadays..with lots of visuals,all computerized ..but no acting ..is a sad fact..And when i say acting i don't mean brutes who grapple each other,or super heroes who throw fire from their mouths..that's not acting..that's just visuals,special effects..What happened to the actors??they think that standing idle and flexing their biceps,or women who show off their "bodily riches"and everything that this means...they think they act?? Film industry should go back and see..go back to school..back to basics..This movie is a cornerstone..a piece of art..In all aspects..Thank you Jose Ferrer..You will always be remembered and honored..!!!!
Try as I may, I can't imagine seeing anyone play the role as well as the unforgettable Jose Ferrer. He had all of the elements that make for such a faithful and total performance— voice, diction, carriage, all of the dramatic elements that such a larger-than-life character demand. And of course, that climatic barroom sword fighting scene, done with such aplomb by the brilliant stage actor. I have no doubt that the idea for the sword fighting scene in "The Princess Bride" was a direct takeoff of that memorable fight scene. Many, many years after I'd first seen the classic B&W film on television, I had the honor of working with the then much older Ferrer on the set of the TV series, "The Love Boat," the veritable graveyard of old and forgotten actors. When I approached him to shake his hand, I said: "You were the greatest Cyrano who ever lived." Since few people on that set even knew who he was, I think he was doubly appreciative of my high praise, as evidenced by his broad smile. He was a true gentlemen, both as gracious and warm as you can possibly imagine. R.I.P.
In 1918 the great writer-Poet Edmond Rostand died in his native France. There is a singular monument at Cambo-les-Bains which marks his resting place. Even though there are ten other works attributed to him, his most noted work " Cyrano de Bergerac " has Immortalized him. The story is about an French Swordsman who was born with a comic sized nose. Heaven help anyone foolish enough to remark about it. Cyrano de Bergerac (José Ferrer, in an award winning role) happens to be the finest swordsman in France, however, although courageous enough to challenge an army, his shy nature, reluctantly prevents him from voicing his Love for Roxane (Mala Powers) the woman he loves. Incidentally, although he loves her, she in turn loves Christian de Neuvillette (William Prince) a soldier in the same King's guard. Secretly, they decide to win the fair lady for Christan, who becomes tongue-tied when trying to express his feelings for her. Despite, other adaptations, this is the superior version. Highly recommended to all. ****