Another presumably choice DVD on the way: Peter Ustinov‘s Billy Budd (’62), a literate, superbly acted (by Terence Stamp, Robert Ryan, Melvyn Douglas, Ustinov), very handsomely photographed (monochrome, 2.35 to 1 Scope) adaptation of the Herman Melville novel about innocence wronged. Ustinov’s Captain Vere is perhaps too humane and guilt-wracked, but the reptilian malevolence in Ryan’s Claggart is fascinating, and the young, blonde-haired Stamp is angelicism personified before even speaking a word. Ustinov directed and produced. Due March 6th from Warner Home Video.
