The Conqueror (1956)

The leader (John Wayne) of the Mongols kidnaps a Tartar woman (Susan Hayward) on her way to be married and takes her as his own despite her protestations. This precipitates a war between various tribes. THE CONQUEROR has the unenviable reputation of being one of the worst films of all time. Principally due to the insane casting of Wayne as Genghis Khan and redheaded Hayward as his Tartar woman. But take away the miscasting and how bad is it? In truth, it's no worse than those Tony Curtis/Piper Laurie exotic sword and sandal programmers Universal was churning out in the 1950s, it's just not as fun. In fact, for a supposed piece of kitsch, it's remarkable how dull it is. If the film had been cast more appropriately, say, Anthony Quinn and Gina Lollobrigida, it still wouldn't be any better. The dialogue has to be heard to be believed ("I feel this Tartar woman is for me and my blood says take her") but other than a bump and grind sword dance by Hayward, there's not much to grin about. On the plus side, handsome CinemaScope cinematography that utilizes the Utah desert landscapes to advantage and a full bodied Victor Young score. Produced by Howard Hughes and directed by actor Dick Powell. With Agnes Moorehead, Pedro Armendariz, Lee Van Cleef, Thomas Gomez, John Hoyt, Ted De Corsia and William Conrad.