The Cardinal 1963
"A motion picture that spans two decades of conflict and drama as it tells the story of a young American and his rise to prince of the church."
Otto Preminger's sweeping epic *The Cardinal (1963)* unfolds over two decades, tracking the moral and spiritual journey of a young Boston priest as he ascends to the highest ranks of the Catholic Church.
Director: Otto Preminger
Cast
Tom Tryon
Stephen Fermoyle
Romy Schneider
Annemarie von Hartman
John Huston
Kardinal Glennon
Carol Lynley
Mona Fermoyle / Regina Fermoyle
Dorothy Gish
Celia Fermoyle
Maggie McNamara
Florrie Fermoyle
Bill Hayes
Frank Fermoyle
Cameron Prud'Homme
Din Fermoyle
John Saxon
Benny Rampell
Loring Smith
Cornelius J. Deegan
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Cardinal (1963) about?
*The Cardinal (1963)* follows a young Catholic priest from Boston as he rises through the ranks of the Church amid the rise of Nazism and societal intolerance. His personal and spiritual battles unfold over decades, forcing him to confront bigotry, war, and his own conscience on the path to becoming a cardinal.
Who directed The Cardinal?
Otto Preminger, the acclaimed director behind classics like *Anatomy of a Murder* and *Laura*, helmed *The Cardinal*.
Who stars in The Cardinal?
The film features Tom Tryon in the lead role, supported by Romy Schneider, John Huston, Carol Lynley, and Dorothy Gish in standout performances.
Is The Cardinal (1963) worth watching?
With its epic scale, historical depth, and stellar cast, *The Cardinal* is a rewarding watch for fans of dramatic, thought-provoking cinema. While it may not match modern pacing, its exploration of faith and power holds enduring relevance, making it a film worth seeking out on classic movie platforms.
How long is The Cardinal?
The Cardinal runs for 185 minutes, offering an immersive, slow-burn narrative perfect for those who appreciate classic storytelling.
🎥 Trailer
About The Cardinal (1963) — Otto Preminger's dramatic journey of faith and power
Otto Preminger's sweeping epic *The Cardinal (1963)* unfolds over two decades, tracking the moral and spiritual journey of a young Boston priest as he ascends to the highest ranks of the Catholic Church. Set against the backdrop of rising Nazism, religious intolerance, and personal sacrifice, the film immerses viewers in a world where faith is tested against worldly pressures and ideological conflict. With Tom Tryon leading a stellar cast alongside Romy Schneider and John Huston, *The Cardinal (1963)* blends historical drama with intimate character studies, exploring themes of duty, conviction, and the cost of ambition within the hallowed halls of the Vatican.
This 1963 masterpiece captures the tension between idealism and pragmatism, as its protagonist navigates the Church's complex politics while grappling with his own ideals. Shot with Preminger's signature visual sophistication, the film contrasts the grandeur of ecclesiastical power with the raw emotional turmoil of its characters, creating a poignant and thought-provoking experience. Whether you're drawn to its historical weight or its timeless moral dilemmas, *The Cardinal* remains a landmark in classic cinema.
