'The Power and the Glory' (1961) Movie of the Book by Graham Greene

Very poor quality - but a historical curiosity nonetheless.

'The Power and the Glory' is a 1961 American television film adaptation of Graham Greene's 1940 novel, produced by David Susskind for CBS. The film features an impressive cast, including Laurence Olivier as the unnamed "whiskey priest," George C. Scott as the police lieutenant, and Julie Harris as Maria. ​

Plot Overview: Set in 1930s Mexico during a period of anti-Catholic persecution, the narrative follows a flawed Catholic priest (Olivier) who, despite his moral shortcomings—such as alcoholism and fathering an illegitimate child—continues to minister to the spiritual needs of the people. He is pursued by a zealous police lieutenant (Scott) determined to capture and execute him, believing that eradicating the church will liberate the oppressed populace. The story delves into themes of faith, redemption, and the complexities of human nature.​

Production Quality: The production was ambitious for its time, with a reported budget of $500,000, which eventually escalated to $746,000. A Mexican township set, valued at $125,000, was constructed at NBC studios to authentically depict the setting. Despite these efforts, some contemporary critics felt that the film did not fully realize its potential. ​

Critical Reception: Upon its release, the film received mixed reviews. The New York Times described it as "a proverbial milestone and a major disappointment," suggesting that while the production was significant, it fell short of expectations. Similarly, the Los Angeles Times commented that the film was "less than it could be," indicating that the adaptation may not have fully captured the depth of Greene's novel. ​

Performances: Laurence Olivier's portrayal of the tormented priest showcases his versatility, though some critics noted that his accent was inconsistent. George C. Scott delivers a compelling performance as the relentless lieutenant, embodying the character's ideological fervor. Julie Harris brings depth to the role of Maria, adding emotional weight to the narrative. The supporting cast, including Roddy McDowall as the mestizo and Keenan Wynn as the bootlegger, contribute to the film's exploration of moral ambiguity.​

Availability: For many years, this adaptation was difficult to find, leading to a sense of intrigue among film enthusiasts. However, it has since been made available on DVD, allowing contemporary audiences to assess its merits. Some viewers have expressed appreciation for the opportunity to watch this rare production, despite acknowledging its limitations. ​

Conclusion: The Power and the Glory (1961) stands as an ambitious television adaptation that brought together a stellar cast to tackle Greene's complex narrative. While it may not have fully achieved the critical acclaim anticipated at the time of its release, it remains a noteworthy exploration of faith and morality, offering valuable performances that continue to resonate with audiences today.