Arian (Mark Forest) is introduced to Menelaus (Alberto Lupo) in THE LION OF THEBES (1964)
Alberto Lupo's role is small but significant. He had cameo-like roles as an important army leader in other movies. He always added a semblance of credibility to movies. He was in 6 movies in 1964 alone. I wonder if these cameos were for the Italian market. Mark was insanely buff in this movie. No costumes could contain him. Does anyone know the significance of the black tapestry in the background. That's Carlo Tamberlani making the introduction.
I really like the composition of this widescreen image where all eyes are on Mark Forest. It shows nicely how our eyes are directed to him by the arms and eyelines of the other actors, the edge of the table, the spear which leads to the tapestry lines and folds which in turn frame him, as well as the brightest light on his shoulder.
ReplyDeleteThe black tapestry does not strike anything familiar to me, but in itself adds depth to the image and is a wonderful creation which could be used in almost any peplum film set in any period ! I am always amazed at the amount of work that goes into designing and dressing believable sets when one considers the little surviving information available on ancient pottery, shields or frescos.
ReplyDeleteFor a closer, clearer view of the tapestry in question see earlier on this blog:
http://www.peplumtv.com/2021/07/by-gods_15.html