Salom review

Behind Wilde Salomé

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While starring in a minimalist 2006 stage production of Oscar Wilde’s play, Al Pacino pieced together this film version during rehearsals. Comprising close-ups and medium shots with the odd angles to spice things up, it sees Pacino in bug-eyed form (“I remember he looked LANGUOROUSLY at Salomé!”) as King Herod, who lecherously pushes stepdaughter Salome (a riveting Jessica Chastain) into dancing for him; in return she demands the head of John the Baptist.

It’s more filmed theatre than cinema but Wilde’s lusty prose continues to quicken the pulse 123 years on.

Jamie Graham
Editor-at-Large, Total Film

Jamie Graham is the Editor-at-Large of Total Film magazine. You'll likely find them around these parts reviewing the biggest films on the planet and speaking to some of the biggest stars in the business – that's just what Jamie does. Jamie has also written for outlets like SFX and the Sunday Times Culture, and appeared on podcasts exploring the wondrous worlds of occult and horror. 

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