Around the World in Eighty Days

Critical Acclaim

When Around the World in Eighty Days premiered in 1956, it garnered a mix of admiration and skepticism due to its ambitious scope and lavish production. Critics marveled at the film's grandeur and the innovative use of location shooting across multiple continents, which was a rarity at the time. The film's ability to capture the spirit of Jules Verne's novel while engaging audiences with its star-studded cameo appearances was particularly praised. The New York Times lauded it as "a vast and merry travelogue," highlighting its entertaining nature despite some critics noting the film's lengthy runtime.

Bosley Crowther of The New York Times remarked on the film's spectacle, noting its "eye-filling" quality and "amusing" storytelling. Variety praised the film for its "sumptuous" visuals and "rollicking" pace, emphasizing the strength of its ensemble cast led by David Niven and Cantinflas. Today, the film holds a 73% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with modern critics appreciating its nostalgic charm and historical significance, even if some aspects now seem dated. The film's ability to transport audiences on a visual journey remains a point of admiration.

The film's critical success translated into major accolades, including winning five Academy Awards, such as Best Picture and Best Cinematography. It demonstrated the commercial viability of epic-scale productions and set a precedent for future adventure films. Around the World in Eighty Days has been credited with influencing the genre, with its blend of adventure and comedy inspiring similar cinematic endeavors. Its innovative use of global locations and lavish production values continue to be celebrated in film history, cementing its legacy as a pioneering epic of its era.