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I saw this movie in release in 1972 on the big screen and it was a life-changing event. About 10 years ago it was over $80 for a VCS of the movie. This was priced reasonably, arrived fast in perfect condition, and I am delighted to be able to watch it instead of just remember it. It is not a movie of 2 second cuts, endless explosions or blood on the lens. It is a masterpiece of cinematography; every aspect of the film is extraordinary; direction, camera, acting, sets, script, etc. When it came out critics didn't know how to deal with it. I carry to this day the scene in which Peter O'Toole's character is struggling to act normally, and under the pressure of his situation is forced to hold in a scream until alone - the camera above him slowly pans away while he screams one of the most soul-stirring and frightening screams on film. O'Toole is a master actor,Peter Medak is a brilliant director, Ken Hodges delivers spot-on photography, and the supporting cast is filled with British master actors; I especially like the psychiatrist played by Michael Bryant. DON'T buy this unless you appreciate great acting, long scenes, musical interventions, brilliant acting, and deep, dark social commentary on the inhumanity of man, the ridiculous and absurd nature of English aristocracy and a poignant, and ultimately disturbing gaze into the depths of human frailties. This is one my top 5 films of all time list.Read full review
My taste in everything is, of course, very refined so that I would opt to purchase this movie for my private collection only means it is of the highest caliber. You still with me? Good! The Ruling Class neatly skewers established Western dogma with outrageous comic elan. You need only view the first five minutes to fall helplessy in love with its hilariously dark viewpoint. Peter O'Toole in a singing/dancing role of Jesus/Jack the Ripper (Oops! What a giveaway!) is a tour de force you won't soon forget. Not recommended for evangelicals or people who've undergone lobotomies.
I love this movie and I am very glad to have it on DVD. A very young looking Peter O'Toole plays the only living son of an English Earl who has just committed suicide (probably accidentally) while wearing ballerina's tutu. Jack is supposed to inherit his father's title, but he thinks he is Jesus. The rest of his family plots to get him married quickly so he will produce a male heir and the title can be taken away from Jack because of insanity. It's a surreal black comedy that satirizes the British social class system. There are bizarre moments where the cast suddenly start singing and dancing as if it was a 1930s musical. Alistair Sim is wonderful as an exasperated Bishop and uncle of the Earl. Everyone's performance is enjoyable.
It's not very good. Humor is childish and easy to anticipate. I bought it based on online comments and Boy did I make a mistake! I love Peter O'Toole and saw him on stage in London. This is unfortunately not his best work.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
One of the best movies ever made great humor combined with biting social commentary
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
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