''The Last Days of Pompeii'', 1935 - art by Frederick Madan
by Movie World Posters
Title
''The Last Days of Pompeii'', 1935 - art by Frederick Madan
Artist
Movie World Posters
Medium
Mixed Media - Vintage Movie Posters
Description
A vintage movie poster reprint of ''The Last Days of Pompeii'', a 1935 historical drama film directed by Ernest B. Schoedsack and Merian C. Cooper. The movie is loosely based on the 1834 novel of the same name by Edward Bulwer-Lytton and set against the backdrop of the cataclysmic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD that destroyed the ancient Roman city of Pompeii.
The film unfolds a grand and sweeping narrative that captures the lives of several characters whose destinies become intertwined as the impending disaster approaches. Among the central characters are Glaucus (played by Preston Foster), a nobleman wrongly accused of murder; Ione (played by Maureen O'Sullivan), a beautiful noblewoman with whom Glaucus falls in love; and Arbaces (played by Basil Rathbone), a treacherous priest who craves both power and Ione.
As the story progresses, it delves into themes of love, betrayal, and redemption against the backdrop of the grandeur of ancient Rome. The film is particularly known for its spectacular special effects, which bring to life the cataclysmic eruption of Mount Vesuvius. This sequence is a thrilling and visually stunning depiction of the volcano's fury, complete with lava flows, earthquakes, and ash clouds, showcasing the technical achievements of its era.
"The Last Days of Pompeii" is celebrated for its lavish production design, including elaborate sets and costumes that transport viewers to ancient Rome. The film's dramatic score adds to the emotional intensity of the story.
While the 1935 adaptation may not adhere closely to Bulwer-Lytton's novel, it remains a significant cinematic portrayal of the destruction of Pompeii and the lives affected by this historical catastrophe. The film's fusion of romance, drama, and disaster spectacle establishes it as a notable entry in the annals of early Hollywood cinema.
About the artist:
Frederic C. Madan (1885 – 1972) was an American artist who lived and worked in New York City. He studied art under painter and teacher Harvey Dunn (1884-1952). Madan became known for Illustrating works for action genres, including covers and posters, which helped define RKO's style of advertising art.
Search “Madan” to see his other art.
Uploaded
April 20th, 2021
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