The numbers speak volumes: 100,000 costumes, 8,000 extras, 300 sets and a staggering budget in its day the largest in movie history. Ben-Hur's creators made it the best, the greatest Biblical-era epic ever. Charlton Heston brings a muscular physical and moral presence to the role of Judah Ben-Hur, a Jewish nobleman in Palestine whose heroic odyssey includes enslavement by the Romans, a bold escape from an embattled slave gallery, vengeance against his tormentors with Jesus Christ. Heston's charismatic performance brought him the Best Actor Oscar; the winner as 1959's Best Picture with the legendary William Wyler earning his third Best Director trophy, the film won a total 11 Academy Awards.
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A Brilliant Blend of Humility and Heroics
Mark Banks (United Kingdom)
Opinion: Recommended
Ben-Hur represents great Holiday-day watching; a film to have on in the background whilst children un-wrap Easter eggs and Granddad dozes in the armchair. Although long, the film is well worth watching as it blends both humility and heroics together in way that most modern filmmakers seem unable to do. Charlton Heston makes for a great hero fighting against the powers that be in a brutal world that is only just being touched by the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Gladiator fans take note!
