Ben-Hur
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Movie Reviews of Ben-Hur
Movie Review: Ben-Him
Summary: 5 Stars
First released in 1959, "Ben Hur" is one the grandest, if not the most courageous exploration of sublimated hoe-more-sect-chew-all love between men. The film takes place in Judea during Jesus Christ's lifetime. It begins when boyhood friends, Messala (Stephen Boyd) and Judah Ben-Hur (Charlton Heston) are reunited in Jerusalem as young men. Messala is now a Tribune in command of the Roman legions that occupy Judea and Judah is both a prince and a wealthy merchant who objects to the Roman occupation in principle but does not overtly oppose it. Under the pretext of discharging his duty as a Roman soldier, Messala urges Judah to inform on any friends or acquaintances that refuse to accept Roman rule. When Judah refuses to comply with this request, Messala turns it into a demand stating that Judah is either for him or against him.
In reality, Messala is sublimating his repressed sect-chew-all desire for Judah and expressing it in consciously acceptable terms. Messala and Judah spent their boyhood together until the age of fourteen when Messala was sent to Rome. Undoubtedly the separation was difficult for both boys but for obvious reasons it traumatized Messala much more. In the first place, Messala was separated from Judah during the advent of his sect-chew-all maturity and before he could resolve any burgeoning sect-chew-all feelings for him. But at the same time, Messala was also transposed from an environment in which he enjoyed relative physical and personal freedom (He and Judah hunted together, and men in Judea are cool about crying when they are upset.) to one in which he underwent rigorous, depersonalizing indoctrination as both a Roman citizen and as a military officer.
Few things could have produced a more disastrous result since Messala now not only repressed his feelings for Judah, but also lacked adequate emotional tools in which to resolve them. As a result, instead of returning to the lost paradise of youth (One he references when he asks Judah if he still hunts jackals and wolves.) Messala attempts to indoctrinate Judah in the same way that he was. On the surface Messala is commanding Judah, but on an emotional level he is actually pleading with him, essentially saying "Look, I can't go back to what we were so let's love each other by having you become what I am." If Judah could properly identify the emotional process at work then he could possibly avert disaster. For example, he could say, "Forget about all this governing Judea stuff, let's talk about you and me." But because Judah fails to recognize the emotional process at work, he inadvertently rejects Messala's emotional advances with catastrophic results. Messala's identity is now trapped in an in-between state since he cannot return to his youthful past and Judah will not join him in his adult present. As a result, in order to prevent his own psychic annihilation, Messala must now destroy Judah-not so much because he rejected him but because his continued presence reminds him of what he has lost forever. For this reason, Messala has Judah condemned as a galley slave and imprisons his mother and sister in the local dungeon where all three face certain death.
After three years in the galleys, Judah is partially freed by a Roman Consul who identifies him with his own dead son. Judah subsequently saves the Consul's life and as a result, the Consul adopts him and trains him to race horses in the Roman circus.
The Consul's relationship with Judah is partly paternalistic and partly sect-chew-all-iced. In liberating Judah and training him to ride in the circus, the Consul unconsciously provides him with the sect-chew-all mentoring he requires to resolve his conflict with Messala. After all, in order to race in the Roman games, Judah must think and behave as a Roman, which means that he has now become indoctrinated in the same manner as Messala. This is apparent when Judah returns to Judea and confronts Messala, who can barely conceal his pleasure toward the fact that Judah has come back not as a Jewish prince or galley slave, but as a Roman aristocrat.
The sect-chew-all conflict between the two men is ultimately resolved during the film's climactic chariot race whose sect-chew-all symbolism is all too apparent. The chariot race takes place in a public arena in which men dressed in scanty, flashy costumes drive powerful horses from chariots mounted behind them.
At first Messala dominates this conflict in several manners. Messala has won this race during all the years of Judah's imprisonment and exile, which means that in a sense he has publicly declared his hoe-more-sect-chew-alit-E. Judah is popular as a hometown boy, but his racing skills (in other words, his sect-chew-all prowess) are unknown here although, ironically, they are well known in Rome. Messala acknowledges this during the start of the race when he smiles at Judah and says, "Hail Jupiter, grant me victory today." In doing this, Messala references the fact that they are now competing together in a Roman environment. In this sense, they have fulfilled Messala's original wish that, having lost their childhood bond, they at least become the same type of man. In referencing Jupiter, Messala subtly reminds Judah that the chariot race is a pagan conflict that recreates their lost youth. Messala is saying to Judah, "Good, you're finally here, let's play."
As the race progresses, Messala realizes that he cannot defeat Judah and begins to whip him furiously, which is essentially an open expression of his sect-chew-all feelings toward Judah. At first Judah is indignant, but then he seizes the whip and lashes back at Messala for the first time acknowledging his own sect-chew-all feelings toward him. This sect-chew-all expression literally overpowers Messala who is mortally injured. Shortly before his demise, however, Messala attempts to destroy Judah's hope of finding his imprisoned mother and sister (and thus of returning to their pre-sect-chew-all past). In the throes of death, Messala declares to Judah that "the race" (their sect-chew-all dance) "goes on."
Movie Review: 'Your eyes are filled with hate Forty One... "
Summary: 5 Stars
The 1959 adaptation of Lew Wallace's famous novel is the pinnacle of filming achiement: rightfully winning 11 Academy Awards for, among other things, its spectacular sets, brilliant acting, great direction, and beautiful score.
Prince Judah Ben-Hur (Charlton Heston) is a respected merchant in Judea whose people are under the yoke of Roman rule. He soon breaks ties with his life-long Roman friend Messala (Stephen Boyd)after his family and livelihood fall victim to Roman injustice. Condemened as a traitor to serve in the galleys under the command of Quintus Arius (Jack Hawkins), Judah Ben Hur keeps faith in his Lord and vows revenge against Messala. Our hero is soon taken to fight Macedonian pirates and to impress the crowds in Rome's Circus Maximus. Finally free, he returns to Judea to exact his revenge. His woes and hatred go unabatated until the Resurrection.
The film's theme is similar to Job's story in The Old Testament. A devout man's faith is tested by God's taking away of all that makes him human: his family, his wealth, his sense of self. All that remains to test in him is his faith. God will not stop plaguing Judah with woes until he's convinced of his undying faith. The story is epic and well adapted as a film with one of Miklos Rosza's most memorable musical scores. Although the film is rather heavy handed with its evangelical theme (Jesus scenes with choir intruductions, divine miracles, the resurrection, salvation etc.) that's the theme of the book as intended by its author and is therefore unavoidable. Despite the often overpowering biblical theme: I find the the story to be a moving epic regardless. My favorite part is when Quintus Arius descends in to the rowers' benches in the Roman Galleys and exclaims:
"...that's good, hate keeps a man alive: it gives him strength! Now listen to me all of you! You are all condemned men whose purpose is to serve this ship, should you fail you will sink with this ship chained to your oar: row well and live!"
Although his muscular anglo-saxon build hardly met the physical requirements for the role, Charlton Heston's persona as Ben Hur brings a commanding figure and presence to the story. His acting style is consistent with the other loin-cloth characters he played in other films before and after (i.e. Moses in 'The Ten Commandments' and Taylor in 'Planet of the Apes'.) Jack Hawkins (Bridge on the River Kwai; Zulu) as Quintus Arius also brings a commanding presence with his theatrical background as the cynical consul. Stephen Boyd as Messala plays one of the most memorable roles especially in the part where he affirms his hatred of Judah at the end of the chariot race: one of the most memorable performances in Hollywood history. The worst performance in the film is without a doubt that of Haya Harareet as Esther: utterly unattractive and barely proficient in English, her vapid expressions and forced acting undermined the intensity of every scene she appeared in. Being Palestinian, the main reason for her casting in the role was most likely political instead of being based on any standard of competence: done so to demonstrate a spirit of cooperation between the Israeli government and Palestinian authorities at the time.
This is truly one of the greatest films ever made. Director William Wyler did an outstanding job with this staggering film production. The 20+ minute chariot race was a real event and it's still to this day an unprecedented spectacle in film: it involved no CGIs or studio shots of an actor riding a fake chariot with a moving backdrop. Even for those who, like myself, don't care much for the evangelical themes that mark this story, this film presents a moving epic on injustice and a man's spiritual triumphs for which one doesn't need to be a devout Christian to enjoy.
Movie Review: The Thinking Man's Epic
Summary: 5 Stars
Ben-Hur is one epic that really deserves the label. Big in every sense of the world, yet it manages to be intimate and personal. The story is familiar to most: the childhood friendship of a Roman and a Jew turns sour when the two meet as adults. Judah Ben-Hur is a wealthy young Jewish prince who despite his wealth cannot deny the plight of his people. Judah's belief that the Romans are killing his people destroys his friendship with Messala, now a Roman tribune. To prove his loyalty to Rome, Messala has Judah sent to the galleys as a slave, based on trumped-up charges. Judah vows revenge and is consumed with hate for Messala and Rome. His chance encounter with Jesus Christ sets him on a path he never thought he'd walk down. There is so much to admire about this film. Charlton Heston in the title role does a wonderful job portraying the title character's torment. Stephen Boyd as Messala, gives the performance of his life. There are wonderful performances from the supporting cast: Finlay Currie (Mr. Shunderson in People Will Talk) as Balthasar, Sam Jaffe as Simonides, and Hugh Griffith as Sheik Ilderim. Griffith's performance is one of the great characterizations in this film. His sheik is wonderfully human and believable. The way he interacts with his horses provide some of the film's best scenes. Jack Hawkins (Academy Award Best Supporting Actor) is stolid and dignified as Heston's adoptive father. As the love interest, Haya Harareet is believable as Esther, a slave in the service of the House of Hur, who has loved Judah from her youth. The DVD transfer is beautiful and the sound is great. It's too bad they opted for a two-sided disc instead of two. The way they've labeled the single disc, it's difficult to know which is "Side A," (the movie) and which is "Side B," (the extras). It's also unfortunate that Warner Brothers (who seems to own most of the MGM library), again used the less than wonderful cardboard packaging. Some of the extras are worth a look. Heston's commentary during the movie is fun, especially his recollections regarding the chariot race. The screen tests of Cesare Danova and Leslie Nielsen (testing for Ben-Hur and Messala respectively) are enjoyable to watch. You'll have fun noticing the zippered back of Danova's costume. The test seems to favor Danova, since Nielsen is off camera during most of their scenes. The "screen test" of Haya Harareet seems more like a costume or lighting test. There's no dialogue and what we see is a rather short head shot of the actress. All in all, Ben-Hur is one of the most enjoyable movie epics ever made. William Wyler's skill with dramatic tension and emotional impact help the storyline direct the focus of the film, rather than the special effects, which are quite amazing, even by today's computer generated standards. The chariot race between Judah and Messala, among many others, is still one of the screens great moments. I've seen it a million times, it seems, but it always seems fresh and exciting. The biblical aspect of the storyline is handled with great care and sensitivity. The change in Judah's life because of his meeting with Jesus is one of film's emotional highlights. As is the crucifixion and Judah's reunion with his mother and sister. By all means get this DVD not for the extras or the packaging, but for the sheer power of its narrative, its great performances, its epic scale, its impeccable musical score, and that incredible chariot race! Lastly, try and view this on the largest TV screen you can find. The larger the screen the bigger the impact this film will have on the viewer.Movie Review: Prince of Judea Gets Royal Treatment From Warner Bros
Summary: 5 Stars
This review refers to the Warner Bros SINGLE DISC DVD edition of "BEN-HUR"......
Well, I am just absolutely thrilled at the treatment this 1959 classic epic has recieved in the transfer to DVD. Warner Bros has really done a superb job. The picture, color, clarity and sound could not be any better if this film was made yesterday. It is presented in the original anamorphic widescreen, and what a view. You won't miss a bit of the academy award winning cinematography. The chariot race, the sea battle,the splendors of Rome and all the glorious and immense sets will just have you in awe. The wonderful technicolor on this DVD is a stand out compared to some others of this era(there were a couple of occasions where there was some sort of greenish tint, but in the background and did not interfer with the view). The sound is enhanced in Dolby Dig Surround 5.1 and is just excellent. The music, dialouge and all surrounding sounds are crystal clear.
The film runs about 3 1/2 hours(you need to flip the disc at about the 2:20 mark, a good time to raid the fridge!), and includes the original overture and intermission music. And if you can't get enough, the DVD also includes some fabulous features. There is audio commentary by Charlton Heston, screen tests, a photo gallery,career highlights, subtitles in English, French(it may also be viewed in French) Spanish and Portuguese.
There is also an hour long behind-the-scenes documentary "BEN-HUR: The Making of an Epic". This feature not only goes into depth in the making of this version, but also gives some great information on the 1925 version with Ramon Novarro, and even has some footage of the very first celluloid attempt of the story(which ran 15 min) from 1907, and background information on the book and it's author. There are some great interviews with cast and crew(from both of these huge films).
"BEN-HUR", the story of a Jewish Prince who's life paralells that of Christ,is an epic saga that takes him from a nobleman, to a galley slave to a hero. The film won a record breaking 11 Acamedy Awards in 1959, including Best Picture, Best Director(William Wyler), Best Cinematography, Best Actor(Charlton Heston) and Best Supporting Actor(Hugh Griffith). This record was unmatched for nealy 40 years, when in 1997 "Titantic" burst onto the scene.
It is a wonderful story, and has something for everyone. The cast includes some of the greats from the 50's. Look for Jack Hawkins as Quinas Arrius the Roman whose life is saved by Judah Ben-Hur, Stephen Boyd as Messala, Judah's boyhood friend who turns on him,Martha Scott and Cathy O'Donnell as his beloved mother and sister, and Haya Harareet as Esther, the woman he loves.
If you have never seen this film before, keep reading some of the other terrific and informative reviews here that delve more into the story, and trust me this is one great story! For those that have seen it, you will fall in love all over with this film on this excellent DVD. There is another edition for sale as well, the "Limited Edition Collector Set". It looks like it comes with lots of goodies for the serious collector, but is quite a bit more expensive. The studio of release on that one is not Warner Bros though.
Bravo Warner Bros and Thank You!
also available in great 3 pack:Best Picture Collection - Epic Dramas (Casablanca/Gone With the Wind/Ben-Hur)(check for best deals available)
enjoy....Laurie
Movie Review: The Quintessential Epic
Summary: 5 Stars
In the late 1950's MGM was in trouble financially. They desperately needed a hit that would put the studio back in the black and re-establish it as a major player. They decided to bet the ranch on Ben-Hur. They brought in William Wyler ("Wuthering Heights", "The Best Years of Our Lives", "Roman Holiday") to direct and gave him carte blanche to spend whatever it took to make the film successful. The result was the most expensive film made to that date at $50 Million (equivalent to $300 Million in today's dollars). Many of the sets took over a year to build. It was lucky the film ever was finished at all. After six months in production, they still didn't have a cast and the script by Karl Tunberg was deemed unacceptable by Wyler. Wyler brought in Gore Vidal and Maxwell Anderson ("All Quiet on the Western Front", "Death Takes a Holiday", "Key Largo") to rewrite the screenplay and they frequently were doing desperate rewrites the night before shooting. Producer Sam Zimbalist died during production. The roman ships they built for the naval battle were top heavy and capsized, so they had to build a special tank where the ships were guided by wires and held upright. An expensive 65mm camera was destroyed in a collision with a chariot.
Numerous leading men were reported to have turned down the part of Ben-Hur, most notably Paul Newman, who said he didn't have the legs to appear in a tunic. Others who were considered were Rock Hudson, Burt Lancaster, and Kirk Douglas. Wyler couldn't find the right actor for the lead, so he turned to Charlton Heston, with whom he had done the film "The Big Country", the year before. Heston accepted the part and the rest is history.
Despite all its production problems, the film is brilliantly done and stands as an archetype of film epics. The sets and costumes are glorious, the direction superb and the acting compelling. The chariot race is an outstanding orchestration of set construction, stunt work and filming that is superlative even by today's standards. Charlton Heston and Stephen Boyd did almost all their own chariot driving, using stuntmen for only the most dangerous stunts. This lent greater realism to the scenes, allowing more close-ups during the intense action.
Somehow, despite all the rewrites using three different writers, the story flowed smoothly to its final resolution. The bitter rivalry between Judah and Messala, boyhood friends turned enemies by Messala's ambition, is well conceived and creates a sense of purpose that makes the ultimate confrontation as powerful as it is inevitable.
The entire cast is terrific. Charlton Heston gives a career performance as Judah Ben-Hur. His combination of strength, courage, compassion and perseverance creates an attractive and heroic character that few in film history have been able to equal. Stephen Boyd is also fantastic as Messala, with a ruthless ambition and a cold heart that stamps out lifelong friendships for personal gain. Jack Hawkins and Hugh Griffith lead a wonderful supporting cast.
This film is one of the most honored epics ever made. It was nominated for 12 Academy Awards and won 11 including Best Picture, Best Actor (Charlton Heston), Best Supporting Actor (Hugh Griffith), Best Director (William Wyler), and Best Music. It is number 72 on AFI's top 100 of the century. The chariot race is one of the most exciting sequences ever filmed. I rated it a 10/10. They don't come much better than this.