The Arabian Nights (1974)

Synopsis of The Arabian Nights

This lush anthology of erotic tales was filmed in four countries (Iran, Nepal, Yemen, and Eritrea) over a period of more than two years. Completing the literary cycle begun by Pier Pasolini in Il Decamerone and I Racconti di Canterbury, this one is perhaps the most controversial of the lot, engendering reactions from admiration to dismissal. The connecting story deals with Mur el-Din (Franco Merli), a prince searching for his slave girl lover, Zumurrud (Ines Pellegrini), who has been kidnapped, only to disguise herself as a man, take a wife, and become ruler of a great city. Mur el-Din's quest carries him to the ends of his known world, where he listens to several stories of carnality and betrayal. The continuity and fluidity of the film depend entirely on the version screened, because several different cuts exist; producer Alberto Grimaldi insisted on a 130-minute release, whereas Pasolini and United Artists preferred the unexpurgated 155-minute version with its ten stories all intact. ~ Robert Firsching, Rovi

Director(s):

Pier Paolo Pasolini

Writer(s):

Pier Paolo Pasolini, Dacia Maraini

Producer(s):

Alberto Grimaldi

Theatrical MPAA Rating:

NC17(Not For Children, Violence, Sexual Situations, Nudity)

• 1974 - Cannes Film Festival - Special Jury Grand Prix

Warning:  This product is intended for mature audiences only. It may contain violence, sexual content, drug abuse and/or strong language. You must be 17 or older to purchase it. By ordering this item you are certifying that you are at least 17 years of age.

Looking for special editions of The Arabian Nights?

See All Versions

Subtitles:

Check All Versions

Closed Captioning:

Check All Versions