The Prodigal
The Prodigal

Movie spotlight

The Prodigal

1955
Movie
112 min
English

A wealthy young Hebrew traveling in Damascus renounces his faith after he is seduced by an alluring pagan priestess and cheated of his fortune by the High Priest as well.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: Richard ThorpeGenres: Drama, History, Romance

Plot Summary

In ancient Damascus, a wealthy merchant's son, Mika, lives a life of excess and decadence. His father's dying wish is for Mika to journey to Samaria to learn humility and compassion. Along the way, Mika is captured by brigands and sold into slavery, facing hardship and learning the true meaning of love and devotion through the kindness of a woman named Ruth.

Critical Reception

The Prodigal received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its biblical epic scale and Lana Turner's performance, while others found its narrative to be somewhat conventional and its historical accuracy questionable. Audience reception was generally lukewarm, with the film failing to achieve significant box office success.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its lavish production and Technicolor presentation.

  • Lana Turner's performance as the temptress Sarah garnered attention.

  • Criticized for a predictable storyline and lack of emotional depth.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce, but general sentiment suggests a visually appealing, though somewhat dated, biblical drama that doesn't fully engage.

Fun Fact

The film was one of Lana Turner's final roles for MGM, her longtime studio.

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