Heston is convincing as an englishman

perhaps because it ends in a downbeat way with the death of Gordon this film never attained the cult status of Lawrence of Arabia, as Gordon essentially fails. However the location and action scenes are stunning and classic big cinema with star studded cast :Alec Guiness as the Mahdi is masterful - the whole story of an army of devout and vengeful islamists getting the upper hand over the british and their egyptian allies is very topical indeed. The Mahdi is portrayed as an intelligent charismatic leader and the one to one negotiations between Heston and Guiness are thrillingly acted and full of suspense. the protrayal of Gladstone and his cabinet is amusing and convincing too. If you like high drama, beatuiful scenery and high budget historical settings do not miss this one