The Oracle of Delphi (1903) User Reviews

And all he got for his troubles was that he made a jackass out of himself!

[planktonrules · 6/10 · 10 September 2020]

Apparently, filmmaker Georges Méliès didn't realize that the famed Oracle at Delphi was next to Mount Parnassus in Greece...not in Egypt! And because of this mistkae, the setting is inexplicably in Egypt.

A man attempts to rob the building in which the oracle resides. Not surprisingly, bad things are in store for the guy when a spirit appears and passes judgment on the thief!

This is a short but modestly enjoyable film. As I noted above the setting is all wrong but it's still worth your time...particularly if you are a Georges Méliès fan.

Méliès still on top

[Horst_In_Translation · 6/10 · 14 May 2016]

"L'oracle de Delphes" or "The Oracle of Delphi" is a 2-minute silent film from 1903, a year in which actually many other filmmakers besides movie pioneer Georges Méliès had emerged, but this film we have here is evidence that he was still among the very best the time had to offer. The plot is really interesting, the sets, effects and costumes are outstanding for their time and the acting is convincing as well. After watching this really short film, I am certain Méliès was ahead of his time and it makes me a bit sad that he came so early already because I am sure the medium of film at that point was not ready for him and his imagination and creativity. Who knows what might have been. In terms of what was though, we have a great body of works from the master Méliès and we should be grateful for it.

The Oracle of Delphi

[Michael_Elliott · 26 April 2008]

Oracle of Delphi, The (1903)

** 1/2 (out of 4)

aka L'Oracle de Delphe

Middle ground film from Melies has a box of valued jewels being placed inside the tomb of Delphi. A thief breaks into the tomb and steals them but soon the ghost of Delphi appears and puts a curse on the thief. This film just runs 90-seconds and is somewhat entertaining thanks in large part to some great special effects. There's really no wasted time in the film as everything happens very quickly. The special effects include two statues coming to life and another great scene where Delphi places the curse on the thief by turning his head into that of a donkey's head. The mask being worn by the actor is obviously fake but that doesn't take away from any of the charm. A few more tricks might have helped the film but for what's here it isn't bad.

Don't Mess With the Gods

[Hitchcoc · 7/10 · 14 November 2017]

In this brief film, a man waits until an official leaves the building housing the Oracle. He goes in an tries to steal it and is immediately held in place by a figure appearing in the entrance. He begs and begs for forgiveness and give the oracle back. It's too late. He pays a dear price which is remindful of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" by Shakespeare. Well done with a couple of neat special effects.