Movie spotlight
Androcles and the Lion
Rome at the time of the persecution of Christians: Androclus, a poor tailor, frees a lion in the forest from terrible pain caused by a thorn in his paw. The two meet again by chance when the devout Christian is about to be thrown to wild animals in the arena. The lion spares him with gratitude, but the real danger for Androklus comes from another direction.
Insights
Plot Summary
A devout Christian baker named Androcles is thrown to the lions in ancient Rome for aiding a fugitive. However, he befriends one of the lions by removing a thorn from its paw. When the man-eating beast is set upon him in the arena, it recognizes Androcles and refuses to harm him, leading to a surprising turn of events.
Critical Reception
Androcles and the Lion was a television film adaptation that received a generally warm reception for its lighthearted take on the classic fable. While not a major cinematic event, it was appreciated for its family-friendly nature and faithful, albeit simplified, retelling of the story.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its wholesome and family-oriented entertainment.
The performances were generally seen as adequate for the made-for-television production.
The adaptation was considered a straightforward and charming rendition of the well-known parable.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this 1969 television film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
This television adaptation of George Bernard Shaw's play 'Androcles and the Lion' was filmed in color but initially broadcast in black and white by NBC in the United States due to limitations in color broadcasting technology and viewer equipment at the time of its original airing.
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