The Sign of the Cross 1932
"A picture which will proudly lead all the entertainments the world has ever seen"
Cecil B. DeMille's sweeping historical drama *The Sign of the Cross (1932)* immerses viewers in the decadent and dangerous world of ancient Rome under Emperor Nero's reign.
Director: Cecil B. DeMille
Cast
Fredric March
Marcus Superbus - Prefect of Rome
Elissa Landi
Mercia
Claudette Colbert
Empress Poppaea
Charles Laughton
Emperor Nero Claudius Caesar
Ian Keith
Tigellinus
Arthur Hohl
Titus
Harry Beresford
Favius Fontelas
Tommy Conlon
Stephan
Ferdinand Gottschalk
Glabrio
Vivian Tobin
Dacia
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Sign of the Cross* (1932) about?
The film follows a Roman tribune who finds himself torn between his loyalty to Emperor Nero and his growing love for a Christian woman. As political and religious conflicts escalate, Marcus must confront the consequences of his choices in a world where power and faith collide.
Who directed *The Sign of the Cross*?
Cecil B. DeMille, the legendary filmmaker known for his grand historical epics and lavish productions, directed *The Sign of the Cross*.
Who stars in *The Sign of the Cross*?
The film features Fredric March as Marcus Superbus, Claudette Colbert as Poppaea, Charles Laughton as Emperor Nero, Elissa Landi as Mercia, and Ian Keith as Emperor Commodus.
Is *The Sign of the Cross* (1932) worth watching?
For fans of historical dramas with sweeping narratives and strong performances, *The Sign of the Cross* delivers a compelling narrative set in ancient Rome. Its exploration of love, power, and faith adds depth to its grand spectacle, making it a standout film of the era.
How long is *The Sign of the Cross*?
The runtime of *The Sign of the Cross* is 126 minutes, or approximately 2 hours and 6 minutes.
About The Sign of the Cross (1932) — Epic Historical Drama with Love and Betrayal
Cecil B. DeMille's sweeping historical drama *The Sign of the Cross (1932)* immerses viewers in the decadent and dangerous world of ancient Rome under Emperor Nero's reign. The film follows Marcus Superbus, a conflicted Roman tribune torn between his duty to the empire and his growing attraction to a devout Christian woman, Mercia. As the story unfolds, Marcus must navigate the treacherous political landscape of Nero's court, where power, persecution, and forbidden love collide in a tale of moral dilemma and epic grandeur. With lavish sets, dramatic performances, and DeMille's signature storytelling flair, the film blends romance, political intrigue, and religious tension against the backdrop of one of history's most notorious eras.
Set against the opulence and cruelty of Nero's Rome, the movie captures the clash of faith and power through a story of forbidden love and personal redemption. Fredric March's commanding presence as the titular tribune anchors the film, while Claudette Colbert and Elissa Landi deliver standout performances as the women who challenge his loyalty. Whether you're drawn to its historical spectacle, romantic drama, or timeless themes of conviction and sacrifice, *The Sign of the Cross* remains a captivating exploration of love tested by the extremes of human nature.
