Myths, muscles and movies.
That’s what I call ‘em. Others call them Sword and Sandal movies and some just call them “Peplum” movies – Italian-made spectacles dubbed into English and given new names. Whatever you call them, I venture to say that you know what I am talking about and have probably seen your fair share of them.
Crazy Gary, here, and Granny wanted me to be sure to feature these spots because she knows how much these movies mean to me.
Every monsterkid worth his or her salt grew up watching these movies either at the movie theater, the drive-in, or later on TV. And why not? It featured a muscular hero, gorgeous women and, usually, one or more monsters or beasts. The guys identified with the hero, and the women swooned over his body and wished they could be the damsel in distress that he rescues.
Although filmed in Italy and surrounding picturesque locations, the heroes were generally American bodybuilders or physique models, and just reading their names on the posters and seeing the spectacular artwork promised a grand adventure. Most popular were Gordon Scott, Brad Harris, Mark Forest, Ed Fury, Gordon Mitchell, Reg Lewis, Dan Vadis, and the all time favorite, Steve Reeves. Also included were Englishman Reg Park, and Italians Sergio Ciani (Alan Steel) and Adriano Bellini (Kirk Morris). The movies were colorful, epic, and full of feats of strength.
The radio spots were colorful too, promising the viewer sights never before seen. Surprisingly, despite Granny’s best collecting efforts and those of The Radio Reaper, few are available. Even so, what we do have will be broken down into two parts.
The two movies I want to highlight this week represent the best, in my opinion, of capturing the spirit of the genre, and are two of my personal favorites, both released by American International.
First up is Steve Reeves’ fourth movie, Goliath and the Barbarians, released in late 1959. The most memorable scene in the movie is when Emiliano (called “Goliath” because of his strength) is tied between two horses going in opposite directions in an attempt to pull him apart. No such success, however, as Emiliano exerts his strength in an impressive double-biceps shot. He passes this “Test of Truth” and is released, only to later return and lead a revolt against the barbarians. Chelo Alonzo is the barbarian beauty he falls for and who complicates things with his people. Les Baxter added a new music score and his “Goliath March” added a sense of grandeur and spectacle.
The second, and my personal favorite of all the sword and sandal movies, is Goliath and the Vampires (1961) starring Gordon Scott. It has everything: feats of strength , an evil vampire creature, giant bugs, atmospheric scenery, creepy sound effects, blue men, faceless humanoids and the inspiring “Goliath March” music theme. It also features an awesome battle between Goliath and Kobrak the vampire who has assumed Goliath’s form. Muscular stuntman Giovanni Cianfriglia doubles Gordon Scott as he fights himself. Thanks to The Radio Reaper for furnishing these four classic spots.
These movies inspired many young moviegoers to take up the weights and embrace the fitness lifestyle, myself included. Today, they are still fun to watch.
So, sit back and enjoy these spots which reflect back to a time when men were men and women were glad of it. See you next time with Part Two…
Goliath and the Barbarians Radio Spots
Goliath and the Vampires Radio Spots
