Synopsis
When a plot against a prominent Middle Eastern politician is uncovered, David Pollock, a professor of ancient hieroglyphics at Oxford University, is recruited to help expose the scheme. Pollock must find information believed to be in hieroglyphic code and must also contend with a mysterious man called Beshraavi. Meanwhile, Beshraavi's lover, Yasmin Azir, seems willing to aid Pollock -- but is she really on his side?
Your Movie Library
Cast
- Gregory PeckProf. David Pollock
- Sophia LorenYasmin Azir
- Alan BadelNejim Beshraavi
- Kieron MooreYussef Kasim
- Carl DueringPrime Minister Hassan Jena
- John MerivaleMaj. Sylvester Pennington Sloane
- Duncan LamontWebster
- George CoulourisRagheeb
- Ernest ClarkBeauchamp
- Harold KasketMohammed Lufti
Recommendations
- 80
The New York Times
Producer-director, Stanley Donen, apparently goes on the theory that in a chase movie the plot should only be used as a framework, for visual entertainments. Arabesque provides those, all right—Op photography, lush décor, gimmicky locations and hairraising pursuits. And, of course, Sophia Loren, a stunning bit of animated scenery who is not called upon to act but to Dior. - 80
Los Angeles Times
The glossy Stanley Donen thriller offers one surprise after another and lots of romantic byplay between Peck and Loren, including a sensational shower scene. [30 Sep 1990, p.85] - 75
Chicago Reader
Stanley Donen's follow-up to Charade is not quite the tour de force the earlier film was, but even with Gregory Peck and Sophia Loren standing in for Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn, it's a slick and satisfying entertainment. - 60
TV Guide Magazine
It's all mindless, absurdly complex and hopelessly hip in that 1960s sort of way, but an agreeable way to pass the time with gorgeous Sophia. - 50
Time Out
Much flashier than Donen's earlier Charade (also scripted by Peter Stone, alias Pierre Marton) and very sub-Hitchcock. - 50
Variety
Arabesque packs the names of Gregory Peck and Sophia Loren and a foreign intrigue theme, but doesn't always progress on a true entertainment course. Fault lies in a shadowy plotline and confusing characters, particularly in the miscasting of Peck in a cute role.
