In 1954, after a few more bandit movies, Quinn made two epics in Italy, Ulysses and Attila, as well as Federico Fellini’s La Strada. In the latter, he was superb as Zampano, the whoring, drunken itinerant strongman who ignores the simple-minded girl (Giulietta Masina) he has put to work as a clown. Cruel as the character is, by the end, Quinn has revealed his own heartbreak and isolation. In a way all of the leading characters either get what they want or are proved right. You'll have to see the film to get my meaning. The same year, he married DeMille’s adopted daughter Katherine, although his father-in-law did little to advance his career, not only to counteract any suggestion of nepotism, but because he did not think much of his acting talent.

Quinn’s powerful portrayal makes the audience sympathize with Barabbas and understand his internal conflict.

The film was a critical and commercial success, receiving numerous award nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for Quinn’s performance.

Anthony Quinn’s Performance: Once again, Anthony Quinn delivers a standout performance as Barabbas, capturing the character’s complex journey from criminal to Christian convert.The film captures the spirit of Chicago’s working-class neighborhoods and its unique blend of ethnic cultures. Overall, “Barabbas” is a powerful and thought-provoking film that features Anthony Quinn at his best, an epic scope, and deep exploration of themes that continue to resonate with audiences today.