I really hoped to enjoy this film. It features an incredible cast involved in a story that seems like the pinnacle of collected storytelling. What could possibly be wrong? Unfortunately, there were several issues. David Niven is acceptable as the refined "Fogg," who, together with his temporary valet "Passepartout" (the agile Cantinflas), agrees to a challenge from some wealthy men at the Reform Club to complete a journey around the world in 80 days. Steam trains, balloons, ships, camels, horses, and even a paddle-steamer are used for their travels, with nearly every available movie star appearing as the story takes us through various countries and cultures, offering colorful and diverting adventures. There's a certain connection between the two travelers, but they spend too much time separated on screen, and I felt that it was the sheer variety of the stories which ultimately undermined the film. It feels overly episodic; the plot frequently lacks a sense of flow, resembling more a vibrant travelogue with occasional clever lines. Even Robert Newton’s playful performance as "Insp. Fix," who believes “Fogg” is actually a notorious bank robber, and Shirley MacLaine's charming portrayal of "Princess Aouda" aren't enough to truly improve or hold it together. It runs for a considerable length, though that wouldn't necessarily have been a problem (at least it isn’t 80 days), but it just feels lifeless – there was so much more potential, but it wasn’t realized. The final twenty minutes do pick up pace as their journey reaches its climax, but this doesn't quite compensate for the earlier shortcomings. The technical elements are all well-executed, especially the cinematography; the costume designers faced a massive undertaking and Victor Young's score is appropriately diverse in its musical influences and deserves his Oscar. Perhaps it benefited from having too much time and money available, but ultimately it’s somewhat underwhelming.

Source on TMDB