Salom review

Behind Wilde Salomé

Reviews
By Jamie Graham
published

Why you can trust GamesRadar+ Our experts review games, movies and tech over countless hours, so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about our reviews policy.

While starring in a minimalist 2006 stage production of Oscar Wilde’s play, Al Pacino pieced together this film version during rehearsals. Comprising close-ups and medium shots with the odd angles to spice things up, it sees Pacino in bug-eyed form (“I remember he looked LANGUOROUSLY at Salomé!”) as King Herod, who lecherously pushes stepdaughter Salome (a riveting Jessica Chastain) into dancing for him; in return she demands the head of John the Baptist.

It’s more filmed theatre than cinema but Wilde’s lusty prose continues to quicken the pulse 123 years on.

Jamie Graham
Editor-at-Large, Total Film

Jamie Graham is the Editor-at-Large of Total Film magazine. You'll likely find them around these parts reviewing the biggest films on the planet and speaking to some of the biggest stars in the business – that's just what Jamie does. Jamie has also written for outlets like SFX and the Sunday Times Culture, and appeared on podcasts exploring the wondrous worlds of occult and horror. 

See comments