The Biblical epic has been one of the most financially rewarding genres in Hollywood cinema, due in no small part to the enormous spectacle often produced from these films. Fortunately for those of us who enjoy these movies, they have aged quite well and still command a great deal of respect, if for nothing else than for the immense artistry and work that went into their production. If you’ve always wanted to watch a biblical epic, try any of these great films, most of which were produced in the golden years of the Hollywood studios.
“The Ten Commandments”
Most people are familiar with this film, which stars Charlton Heston, one of the most famous and noteworthy actors of the golden age of Hollywood. It tells the story of the biblical prophet Moses as he attempts to convince the despotic and cruel pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage.
Although the story is a familiar one, the film succeeds because of its epic scope and the enormous cast of characters, as well as the very high-profile men and women who were its stars. Along with Heston, the film also includes such big names as Yul Brenner, Yvonne De Carlo, and numerous others. After watching this film, you will have a newfound appreciation for the immense work that goes into a large-scale epic production.
“Ben-Hur”
Charlton Heston made something of a name for himself starring in biblical epics, as this film, which follows the story of a charioteer struggling to survive in Rome, makes very clear. Like other epics of its time, it attempts to recreate the world that was Rome in terms of awesome grandeur and sheer epic storytelling and filmmaking at its best. As you watch the chariot races, you feel as if you are right there with the men, struggling to survive in the cutthroat world that was ancient Rome and the life of the races.
“The Greatest Story Ever Told”
Made during the twilight of the studio era, this film focuses on the life of Christ from his birth until his death. Again we see the sweeping vistas and enormous cast of characters that came to be the hallmarks of the epic film, and again we see a desire to recruit some of the biggest names in Hollywood to make the film appeal to as many people as possible. Although it is quite a slow-moving film (as epics tend to be), it is also immensely moving and quite lush as a visual spectacle. When it comes to the recreation of the world of the Bible, this film is second to none.
So, if you have a few hours to invest in a movie or want to watch the world of the Bible brought onto the television screen, you should definitely consider investing that time in one of the great biblical epics from the classic era of Hollywood cinema.
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