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Arabesque

6.2

2,763

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Original title

Arabesque

Year

1966

Running time

118 min.

Country

United States

Director

Stanley Donen

Screenwriter

Julian Mitchell, Stanley Price, Peter Stone

Cast

Music

Henry Mancini

Cinematography

Christopher Challis

Producer

Universal Pictures

Genre

Mystery. Adventure | Spy Film

Synopsis

Story of international intrigue involving a university professor, an Arab prime minister, a ruthless businessman, a beautiful spy, and hieroglyphics.

Professor David Pollock (Gregory Peck) is an expert in ancient Arabic hieroglyphics. A Middle Eastern Prime Minister convinces Pollock to infiltrate the organization of a man named Beshraavi (Alan Badel), who is involved in a plot against the Prime Minister. The nature of the plot is believed to be found in a hieroglyphic code. Beshraavi's mistress, Yasmin Azir (Sophia Loren) is a mystery intertwined in the plot. Pollock needs her help, but when she repeatedly seems to double cross him in one escapade after another, he can't decide on whose side she is working. Ultimately working together, Pollock and Yasmin decipher the plot and set out to stop an assassination of the Prime Minister.

Awards: 1966: BAFTA Awards: Best Cinematography (colour). 3 Nominations.

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Critics' reviews

"The glossy Stanley Donen thriller offers one surprise after another and lots of romantic byplay between Peck and Loren, including a sensational shower scene"

Los Angeles Times
"It's all mindless, absurdly complex and hopelessly hip in that 1960s sort of way, but an agreeable way to pass the time with gorgeous Sophia."

TV Guide
"Op photography, lush décor, gimmicky locations and hairraising pursuits. And, of course, Sophia Loren, a stunning bit of animated scenery"

The New York Times
"Fault lies in a shadowy plotline and confusing characters, particularly in the miscasting of Peck in a cute role."

Variety Staff: Variety
"Stanley Donen's follow-up to Charade is not quite the tour de force the earlier film was, but even with Gregory Peck and Sophia Loren standing in for Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn, it's a slick and satisfying entertainment."

Dave Kehr: Chicago Reader

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User history

Arabesque

1966

Stanley Donen

6.2

(2,763)