Elmer Gantry (PG)

★★★★✭ "This once scandalous adaptation of the trenchant Sinclair Lewis novel pulls few punches in its story of the hypocrisy, materialism, and opportunism at the heart of the evangelical world of Bible-thumping barnstorming revival troupes, an industry that professes to be about spiritual salvation." ~ AllMovie.

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1960 would prove to be a major year for Jean Simmons with the release of Elmer Gantry and Spartacus as well as The Grass is Greener. The three films confirmed her as a major Hollywood star who could hold her own alongside some of the biggest stars of the day.  

Elmer Gantry, driven by the captivating performances of leads Burt Lancaster and Simmons, is Richard Brooks’ thoughtful adaptation of Upton Sinclair’s novel about a charismatic salesman who uses his guile to become a successful evangelical preacher.

The film won numerous awards including three Oscars.

A reminder of a time when Hollywood was not afraid to make serious and thought-provoking films.  

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★★★★★ "Long, certainly, but deeply satisfying and richly rewarding, this is a truly great movie." ~ Radio Times.