Back to browse
64% Critic Match
The Greatest Show on Earth
“The Heartbeat Story of Circus People, Filmed with the Cooperation of Ringling Bros. - Barnum and Bailey Circus!”
6.4 / 10• 1952• 2h 32m•NR• English
DramaRomance
Storyline
To ensure a full profitable season, circus manager Brad Braden engages The Great Sebastian, though this moves his girlfriend Holly from her hard-won center trapeze spot. Holly and Sebastian begin a dangerous one-upmanship duel in the ring, while he pursues her on the ground.
Cast & Crew
Betty Hutton
Holly
Lead
Cornel Wilde
The Great Sebastian
Charlton Heston
Brad Braden
Dorothy Lamour
Phyllis
Gloria Grahame
Angel
James Stewart
Buttons
Henry Wilcoxon
Agent Gregory
Lyle Bettger
Klaus
What People Are Saying
4.0
“A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Cecil B. DeMille's vision lands with breathtaking precision.”
3.0
“Every frame feels alive. The Greatest Show on Earth is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.”
