“Cyrano de Bergerac” is a classic play by Edmond Rostand, which has been adapted into various forms including a 1950 film directed by Michael Gordon. The movie stars Jose Ferrer as Cyrano, a brilliant poet and swordsman with a famously large nose who is in love with his beautiful cousin Roxane (Mala Powers).
Despite his talents and wit, Cyrano believes that his appearance makes him unworthy of Roxane’s love. When Roxane falls in love with a handsome but dull soldier named Christian (William Prince), Cyrano agrees to help him win her heart by writing romantic letters and poetry in Christian’s name.
Cyrano’s writing skills succeed in winning Roxane’s heart, but Christian is killed in battle before he can reveal the truth about who wrote the letters. Years later, Cyrano visits Roxane and confesses his love for her, but she only realizes the truth about his feelings for her after his death.
The film adaptation stays true to the play’s original themes of love, courage, and honor, while also showcasing Ferrer’s stunning performance as Cyrano. It received critical acclaim and was nominated for several Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Directors:
Michael Gordon
Writer:
Edmond Rostand, Brian Hooker, Carl Foreman
Stars:
José Ferrer, Mala Powers, William Prince
