An attempt at making a literate blockbuster - the story of Michelangelo painting the Sinse Chapel focusing on his clashes with the Pope. Thing is it's not that interesting. He paints. They squabble. It feels better suited to a TV play or stage play.
It needed another subplot of more emotion. Someone in love with the Pope. Or a more compelling person into Michelangelo than Diane Cilento's noblewoman - nothing wrong with her performance but there's no heart.
I liked the scene where Michelangelo wants to discuss the painting before the Pope goes into battle - that's fun. It comes alive. The movie doesn't have enough life.
Gorgeously shot, smart, literate, attempts to raise the bar... But dull. Didn't need to be an epic/road show.
Fine performances from all - Charlton Heston, Rex Harrison. Harrison slightly miscast in a role that needed someone macho but he teams well with the more stoic Heston.
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