Trapeze is a 1956 film directed by Carol Reed and starring Burt Lancaster, Tony Curtis, and Gina Lollobrigida. The film focuses on the world of circus performers and follows the story of Mike (Lancaster), a seasoned trapeze artist who takes Tino (Curtis), a young and talented acrobat under his wing to teach him the ins and outs of the trapeze act.
Mike is known for his daring "triple" move, where he jumps from one trapeze to another while catching a third swing. Tino quickly proves himself to be a fast learner and the two become a successful duo, performing in front of large crowds and receiving critical acclaim.
However, their partnership is threatened when the beautiful and ambitious Lola (Lollobrigida) joins the act. Both men are immediately captivated by her and tensions rise as they compete for her attention. While Mike resents Lola's presence and sees her as a distraction from their act, Tino is smitten and wants to incorporate her into their show.
As Lola becomes more involved in the act, the risks and dangers increase, leading to disagreements and conflicts between the performers. The tension reaches a boiling point during a high-stakes performance, where a mistake could cost them their lives.
Trapeze is known for its stunning acrobatic sequences, which were performed by the actors themselves without the use of stunt doubles or special effects. The film also showcases the personalities and egos of circus performers, and explores the themes of jealousy, romance, and the pursuit of perfection.