This multiple Oscar-winning film is a magical atmospheric epic - its sumptuous art direction and beguiling special effects making this the definitive vision of the famous Arabian Nights tale.Imprisoned by the evil Grand Vizier Jaffar Ahmad - the rightful King of Bagdad - meets young Abu the greatest thief in the land. Together they escape from the dungeon and travel to Basra where Abu falls in love with the Sultan's daughter. Jaffar casts a spell on the two lovers and the Princess reluctantly succumbs to Jaffar's advances in order to release them. To rescue her Ahmad and Abu embark on a series of fantastical adventures only just surviving a terrifying encounter with a Djinn from whom Abu manages to extract three wishes...Starring Sabu - the first Indian actor to attain star status in Hollywood - and directed by no less than six people (including Oscar-nominated director Michael Powell (Black Narcissus) The Thief of Bagdad won three Oscars (Best Art Direction Best Cinematography and Best Special Effects) as well as a nomination for Best Original Score. Filmed in Wales Cornwall and the Grand Canyon it premiered on Christmas Day 1940 to universal and lasting acclaim.
This multiple Oscar-winning film is a magical atmospheric epic - its sumptuous art direction and beguiling special effects making this the definitive vision of the famous Arabian Nights tale.Imprisoned by the evil Grand Vizier Jaffar Ahmad - the rightful King of Bagdad - meets young Abu the greatest thief in the land. Together they escape from the dungeon and travel to Basra where Abu falls in love with the Sultan's daughter. Jaffar casts a spell on the two lovers and the Princess reluctantly succumbs to Jaffar's advances in order to release them. To rescue her Ahmad and Abu embark on a series of fantastical adventures only just surviving a terrifying encounter with a Djinn from whom Abu manages to extract three wishes...Starring Sabu - the first Indian actor to attain star status in Hollywood - and directed by no less than six people (including Oscar-nominated director Michael Powell (Black Narcissus) The Thief of Bagdad won three Oscars (Best Art Direction Best Cinematography and Best Special Effects) as well as a nomination for Best Original Score. Filmed in Wales Cornwall and the Grand Canyon it premiered on Christmas Day 1940 to universal and lasting acclaim.