Fabiola (1949)

Set in early 4th century Rome, the daughter (Michele Morgan) of a senator (Michel Simon) falls in love with a gladiator (Henri Vidal). When her father is murdered, the Romans place the blame on the Christians for political reasons and thus the persecution begins. Based on the novel by Nicholas Patrick Wiseman and directed by Alessandro Blasetti. Two years before the Hollywood epic QUO VADIS became a major blockbuster, this ambitious epic from Italy is quite impressive in its scope. The film eschews the DeMille pomposity and piousness that infected his biblical films and the stark B&W cinematography of Mario Craveri adds a touch of severity to the narrative. The movie's graphic finale includes brutality and violence that the Hollywood of that era wouldn't dare attempt, much less the nudity. I assume the finale was severely cut for its American release. If you're a fan of biblical epics or sword and sandal peplum, definitely check this one out. Michele Morgan would marry Henri Vidal shortly after the film's release. Loosely remade in 1960 as REVOLT OF THE SLAVES. With Massimo Girotti, Gabriele Ferzetti, Franco Interlenghi, Paolo Stoppa and Elsa Cegani.