Abdulla the Great

Abdulla the Great (alternatively titled Abdullah's Harem) is a 1955 comedy film both directed and produced by Gregory Ratoff, who also assumes the lead role. The script, crafted by Boris Ingster and George St. George, adapts Ismet Regeila's novel My Kingdom for a Woman. The film’s score was composed by Georges Auric, with cinematography handled by Lee Garmes.

The principal cast features Gregory Ratoff, Kay Kendall, Sydney Chaplin, Alexander D'Arcy, and Marina Berti. Ratoff refuted claims that the narrative serves as a thinly disguised satire of King Farouk of Egypt and the circumstances surrounding his 1952 deposition.

Plot

The narrative unfolds in Bandaria, a lavish Middle Eastern realm governed by the extravagant Abdullah. The plot centers on Abdullah’s obsession with Ronnie, an English model who rebuffs his pursuits in favor of Ahmed, an officer serving in Abdullah’s military. Simultaneously, escalating civil unrest poses a threat to Abdullah’s rule.

Cast

• Gregory Ratoff as Abdulla
• Kay Kendall as Ronnie
• Sydney Chaplin as Ahmed
• Alexander D'Arcy as Marco
• Marina Berti as Aziza
• Mary Costes as the countess
• Marti Stevens as singer

Reception

According to The Monthly Film Bulletin, although the film encourages audience empathy with its protagonist, its Hollywood-style grandeur and musical sequences dominate the experience. Ratoff’s interpretation of Abdulla was notably effective during satirical moments but became excessively forceful in later scenes. Kay Kendall received commendation for her credible portrayal of resistance to Abdulla’s advances.

Variety critiqued the movie for its clichéd dialogue and uneven tone, highlighting stiff direction and conventional performances that diminished its potential commercial success.