Oedipus Rex
Oedipus Rex

Movie spotlight

Oedipus Rex

1967
Movie
104 min
Italian

In pre-war Italy, a young couple have a baby boy. The father, however, is jealous of his son - and the scene moves to antiquity, where the baby is taken into the desert to be killed. He is rescued, given the name Oedipus, and brought up by the King and Queen of Corinth as their son. One day an oracle informs Oedipus that he is destined to kill his father and marry his mother. Horrified, he flees Corinth and his supposed parents - only to get into a fight and kill an older man on the road…

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes90%
Director: Pier Paolo PasoliniGenres: Drama, Tragedy

Plot Summary

Pier Paolo Pasolini's adaptation of Sophocles' tragedy transports the story of Oedipus to ancient Thebes, following the prince destined to kill his father and marry his mother. Despite attempts to escape his fate, Oedipus unknowingly fulfills the prophecy, leading to a devastating realization and downfall. The film explores themes of fate, free will, and the inescapable nature of destiny.

Critical Reception

Pasolini's 'Oedipus Rex' was met with critical acclaim for its bold artistic vision and unflinching portrayal of the classic tragedy. Reviewers praised its stark visual style, powerful performances, and Pasolini's unique reinterpretation of the myth. While some found its allegorical depth challenging, it is widely regarded as a significant work of art cinema and a masterfully executed adaptation.

What Reviewers Say

  • A visually striking and thematically resonant adaptation of Sophocles' masterpiece.

  • Pasolini's bold artistic choices and intense performances elevate the timeless tragedy.

  • Praised for its unflinching exploration of fate and human destiny.

Google audience: Audience reception data for 'Oedipus Rex (1967)' on Google is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The film's opening sequence, depicting Oedipus's childhood abandonment and discovery, is set in Pasolini's own native region of Friuli, Italy, blending myth with autobiographical elements.

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