Thomas Becket, Henry II's longtime advisor, finds his friendship with the debauched king corroding when he is unwillingly appointed as Archbishop of Canterbury in an attempt to gain absolute loyalty from the Church.

Richard Burton
as Thomas Becket

Peter O'Toole
as King Henry II of England

John Gielgud
as King Louis VII of France

Gino Cervi
as Cardinal Zambelli

Paolo Stoppa
as Pope Alexander III

Donald Wolfit
as Bishop Folliot

David Weston
as Brother John

Martita Hunt
as Empress Matilda

Pamela Brown
as Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine

Percy Herbert
as Baron
John Chard
Here's my royal foot on your royal buttocks! King Henry II of England has grown tired of the interference of the Church. When the Archbishop of Canterbury dies, he senses an opportunity to gain the upper hand. Much to the church, and Thomas Becket's surprise, he appoints his great friend Thomas ...