Question 1

Why did Victor Mature refuse to wrestle the lion in the famous scene?

Accepted Answer

Victor Mature refused to wrestle the tame movie lion, telling director Cecil B. DeMille he didn't want to be 'gummed to death' even if the lion had no teeth. The scene used a stuntman with the lion intercut with Mature wrestling a lion skin.

Question 2

How did this film connect to the classic Sunset Boulevard?

Accepted Answer

During Sunset Boulevard's production, Delilah's tent set from this film was reassembled on a Paramount soundstage for a scene where Norma Desmond visits Cecil B. DeMille, with costumed cast members appearing.

Question 3

What was Groucho Marx's humorous criticism of the movie?

Accepted Answer

Groucho Marx joked that the film had 'one glaring fault' because 'no picture can hold my interest where the leading man's bust is larger than the leading lady's!'

Question 4

What surprising reason kept Burt Lancaster from playing Samson?

Accepted Answer

Burt Lancaster didn't get the role of Samson because of political differences—Lancaster was liberal while director Cecil B. DeMille and eventual star Victor Mature were conservative.

Question 5

What awards recognition did this biblical epic receive?

Accepted Answer

The film was recognized at both the Golden Globes and Academy Awards in 1951.

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Samson and Delilah

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