Hollywood Flashback: ‘The Cardinal’ Drew High Praise at the Golden Globes in 1964

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As a history enthusiast and film aficionado with a deep interest in both religion and cinema, I found “The Cardinal” to be an intriguing exploration of the Catholic Church, its inner workings, and the moral dilemmas faced by its clergy. Having lived through various eras and witnessed numerous changes within the church, it was fascinating to see such a sweeping narrative that tackled topics like interfaith marriage, abortion, and racial segregation, all while spanning two World Wars.

The movie “Conclave” provides an intimate look at the room where the Catholic Church’s cardinals choose their new pope, amidst the looming shadows of conspiracy. However, this film is not the first to delve into the church’s inner workings. In 1964, the Golden Globe for best drama was awarded to “The Cardinal”, which also portrays its own conclave. This film spans history with scenes ranging from Nazi encounters and Ku Klux Klan activities to lavish Viennese ballrooms. Directed by Otto Preminger, this Columbia production is an adaptation of Henry Morton Robinson’s best-selling 1950 novel of the same name. The story follows Father Stephen Fermoyle (Tom Tryon) as he progresses from a newly ordained priest in Boston to attaining one of the church’s top positions. Throughout his journey, he struggles with his faith after being faced with a moral dilemma that threatens life itself.

Despite tackling sensitive topics like interfaith marriage, abortion, racial segregation, and even covering two World Wars, the film garnered varied reviews from critics. THR praised it for being rich with “spectacle, color, humor, ambition, and relevance.” Conversely, The New York Times admired John Huston’s portrayal of an older priest but criticized the lead actor Tryon as a “stale cliché” in the “Bing Crosby priest mold,” lacking the originality and charm.

Instead of using soundstages, Preminger opted to shoot at historical churches in New England, Europe, and the American South, as well as sites in Vienna and Rome. Interestingly, the film’s European location liaison was a young German priest named Joseph Ratzinger, who later went on to be elected Pope Benedict XVI by the conclave.

Originally published as a solo issue in the November edition of The Hollywood Reporter magazine, you can get this magazine by clicking here to subscribe.

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2024-11-17 22:24