This two part adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello was produced and directed by Elliott Lewis using the original dialogue and casting three actors in the leading roles who had never played Shakespeare before. One being himself as Othello referred to as the Moor by Brabantio, Desdemona's father, who uses “Moor” as a derogatory name for Othello, Lewis's then wife Cathy Lewis as Desdemona and Richard Widmark as Iago.

Othello and Desdemona marry and attempt to build a life together, despite their differences in age, race, and experience. The envious Iago, who convinces Othello through his insinuations that Desdemona is unfaithful with Cassio, sabotages their marriage. This is a story of love and jealousies and as its true title tells it is the tale of the tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice.