The film portrays the Trojan War with significant alterations to the Iliad’s narrative. Paris of Troy (Jacques Sernas) embarks on a journey to Sparta in order to establish a peace treaty between the two influential city-states. However, a storm causes his ship to return to Troy after he is swept overboard near the shores of Sparta. It is during this time that Paris encounters Helen, the Queen of Sparta (Rossana Podesta), whom he then falls in love with. Upon reaching the palace, Paris discovers Helen’s husband, King Menelaus (Niall MacGinnis), along with Agamemnon (Robert Douglas), Odysseus (Torin Thatcher), Achilles (Stanley Baker), and several other Greek kings engaging in a discussion about whether or not to initiate war against Troy.
Menelaus notices that Helen and Paris are in love and, while pretending to be friendly, plans to kill Paris. After being warned by Helen, Paris runs away and, when they are nearly caught by the Spartans, takes Helen with him to Troy. The Greeks come together under the guise of helping Menelaus regain his honor and the siege of Troy commences. A great deal of blood is spilled during the lengthy ordeal, with the Trojans blaming Paris and Helen for their misfortune until it is revealed that the Greeks are only interested in Troy’s wealth, not Helen. The siege reaches its climax with the Greeks achieving victory through the trickery of the renowned Trojan Horse.
While attempting to escape, Helen and Paris are trapped by Menelaus. Paris confronts the Spartan king in single combat, but just as he gains the advantage, he is stabbed from behind, denying him a fair trial by combat. Helen is compelled to go back with Menelaus. However, she remains calm in the belief that she will eventually be reunited with Paris. This project deviates from the original tale in several aspects, notably portraying Paris as both a hero and a great leader, and depicting most of the Greek lords as treacherous and opportunistic pirates who are exploiting Helen’s escape as a pretext to acquire the riches of Troy.
