It's Easter; and a group of soldiers note how war "Hills" all blend together, as they rest after a battle. To combat their war weariness, the group have some coffee, and hear the story of Jesus Christ. Christ's Hill was "Hill Number One", where he was crucified. In flashback, the story shifts to tell the main story - of Christ's resurrection. After Christ's death, a surprised Pilate witness several of his people are being converted to Christianity. Following his mother Mary's lead, the followers of Jesus recite "The Lord's Prayer". Many people celebrate Christ's resurrection. Back in the present, the soldiers learn their allies have taken another Hill. Lastly, viewers are led in a Catholic prayer.
This was produced on a limited budget, for a specific purpose; and, understandably, it is not a great production. Ruth Hussey and Leif Erickson star as Mary (the mother) and Pilate. They are both memorable in their roles, considering the production limitations. Ms. Hussy emotes properly, and Mr. Erickson looks almost on the road to conversion in probably the most memorable performance. There are familiar and unfamiliar players - some good and some bad.
Most notable is, of course, James Dean, in his first available screen performance. There isn't much sign of the later Dean. I believe he comes on about 20 minutes in, if you want to skip to that part. He receives his cue from a line Mary says; so look for Ruth Hussey as Mary, as Dean's cue comes after she begins. It looks like a 'bit", but he comes back into the story. Roddy McDowall plays a Christian soldier (the "Professor") in the "present", and has no scenes with Dean.
** Hill Number One (4/4/51) Arthur Pierson ~ Ruth Hussey, Leif Erickson, James Dean, Roddy McDowall
This was produced on a limited budget, for a specific purpose; and, understandably, it is not a great production. Ruth Hussey and Leif Erickson star as Mary (the mother) and Pilate. They are both memorable in their roles, considering the production limitations. Ms. Hussy emotes properly, and Mr. Erickson looks almost on the road to conversion in probably the most memorable performance. There are familiar and unfamiliar players - some good and some bad.
Most notable is, of course, James Dean, in his first available screen performance. There isn't much sign of the later Dean. I believe he comes on about 20 minutes in, if you want to skip to that part. He receives his cue from a line Mary says; so look for Ruth Hussey as Mary, as Dean's cue comes after she begins. It looks like a 'bit", but he comes back into the story. Roddy McDowall plays a Christian soldier (the "Professor") in the "present", and has no scenes with Dean.
** Hill Number One (4/4/51) Arthur Pierson ~ Ruth Hussey, Leif Erickson, James Dean, Roddy McDowall