Ben-Hur Reviews

• A Biblical masterpiece

  
  By AT07UZQQR7ZEH on 2005-12-04
  
  William Wyler's Oscar-winning BEN-HUR (1959), produced by Sam Zimbalist (who died of a heart attack near the end of filming) and based on a best-selling late 19th Century novel by Lew Wallace, is one hell of a movie experience. Watching a brand-new, pristine camera negative copy, I could not believe that the opening Nativity scene and the Resurrection finale were the same movie. There is just so much here. This remake of the 1925 silent epic, runs 3 hours and 45 minutes, including powerful roadshow bookend music by Miklos Rozsa. It takes its leisurely time in telling the story of a Jew (Charlton Heston) and a Roman (Stephen Boyd), raised as best friends, who become bitter enemies in the Holy Land of Jesus Christ's life. Director Wyler was always known as a painstaking perfectionist who would exhaust cast and crew by doing take after take after take of every scene. But the result for the audience is enthralling.
  
  Wyler had never made a Biblical epic before and wanted to work in every genre; his BEN-HUR is the one with a literate brain. It is hard to believe it had major writing problems, multiple writers, and scenes written the night before they would be filmed. It flows beautifully and is continually engrossing, despite its near four hour length. The cast is impeccable, including Martha Scott, Cathy O'Donnell, Jack Hawkins, lovely Haya Harareet, and Oscar winner Hugh Griffith.
  
  If you are looking for the sea battle (directed by Andrew Marton), it is about 70 minutes into part one. If you are seeking out the greatest chariot race in movie history (choreographed and directed by Yakima Canutt), it is about ten minutes after the intermission. The Christ scenes are handled with taste and subtlety; we see only his back or his hand and never hear his voice. In fact, non-Christians might have a difficult time understanding what is going on in those scenes with Jesus, including an impressive Sermon on the Mount near the movie's end. The art direction and costumes are absolutely gorgeous, and Robert Surtees' use of ultra wide-screen Camera 65 is masterful. Most of all, Miklos Rozsa contributes the music score of a lifetime. Everyone won Oscars for their distinguished work. No wonder this BEN-HUR won eleven Oscars the same year as SOME LIKE IT HOT, NORTH BY NORTHWEST, and ANATOMY OF A MURDER. It is a masterpiece. The audio commentary, by scholar and author Gene Hatcher and Mr. Heston, is thoughtful and insightful.
  
  The 1925 silent version, starring Ramon Novarro as Ben-Hur and Francis X. Bushman as Messala, is on disk three of the new and magnificent four disk set. In some ways it is even more impressive than the remake. Novarro and Bushman give performances of a lifetime, the 143 minute length is a good 75 minutes shorter than the 1959 version, the color tinting is very beautiful, the sea battle and chariot race are sensationally good by any standards, and the silent version has far more Jesus Christ scenes and in two-color Technicolor. Carl Davis' orchestra score is outstanding, as always.
  
  The disk four bonuses include two major documentaries, one for the 1994 tape version and one brand-new for this 2005 DVD restoration. We also get "BEN-HUR: A JOURNEY THROUGH PICTURES", several 1959 movie theatrical trailers, and a gallery of vintage newsreels heralding the arrival and covering the premiere of the lavish remake in 1959. This $40 DVD set is a work of art and deserves a place in every library, even if it takes you a while to see all four disks of material. Amazon.com has it for $30, not much more than the cost of a family of four going out to a new movie at night. With both the 1925 and 1959 versions included in flawless prints, this DVD set gets my highest recommendation.
  
  
  
  

• Extraordinary Epic

  
  By A11PTCZ2FM2547 on 2003-04-17
  Yes, this movie was made forty-plus years ago, so it contains an uncomfortable amount of silly overacting so prevalent in dramatic films of that period. Yes, the film is rife with stereotypical depictions of Romans, Jews, and Arabs, and offers a very sanitized version of a leper colony. And yes, the movie has a religious theme, which makes it almost unworthy in today's politically correct culture. Despite all of the above, director William Wyler gave the world an engrossing, beautiful film, complete with stunning cinematography, a compelling story, moving musical score, and perhaps the most famous racing scene in the history of moviemaking.

  I first saw BEN-HUR as a young boy at a theater; I was captivated throughout the three hours, thoroughly entertained and in awe of the majesty on the big screen. The film instantly became one of my favorites, and remains so to this day. Few things do I enjoy more than watching a beautifully crafted, well made movie, and my appreciation certainly was not unique, as the film won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1959.

  The story is familiar to us all: Judah Ben-Hur (Charlton Heston) is a young nobleman from a prominent Jewish family reunited with his childhood friend Messala (Stephen Boyd), who returns to Judea as a Roman tribune. There is genuine warmth and friendship between the two men, yet the clash of their cultures drives a wedge between them--a wedge that becomes a chasm as Messala banishes Judah to the slave galleys and sends his mother and his sister to prison. Thus Judah's life becomes a quest: a quest to survive, a quest for vengeance. Judah survives the galleys to become the adopted son of a Roman general (Jack Hawkins), and his triumphant return to Judea permits him to challenge and subsequently confront Messala in a chariot race--a breathtaking sequence of spellbinding, unforgettable scenes.

  And although Judah's heart is twisted with anger, BEN-HUR is also the story of love, redemption, foregiveness--all depicted under the shadow of the crucifixion of Christ. And in the aftermath of the crucifixion we witness a miracle, a wondrous event that makes this movie so compelling.

  A sweeping, extraordinary epic, BEN-HUR is highly recommended and well worth three hours of anyone's time.
  --D. Mikels
  
  

• Ben Hur----- DVD Bliss***********

  
  By A1DF63P46AT5FW on 2001-03-04
  This film when it was released in 1959 saw it's studio MGM teetering on the edge of bankruptcy and the fact that this film cost in 1958 close to $15 Million dollars was most assuredly a make or break film for the studio.

  William Wyler the film's director, in order to make this film unique as if a running time close to four hours was not enough, filmed it in an aspect ratio of 2.76:1 using what was called MGM Camera 65, an Ultra Panavision process.

  This film was one of only two films that were filmed in that process which is the widest of processes used in film to date.

  Filmed utilizing 8000 extras, 300 sets, and over 100,000 costume changes this film epitomizes the word grand and released a few years after the Ten Commandments, it helped quench the public thirst for Biblical films.

  This new DVD release is presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 and the LFE channel(Low Frequency Effects) is apparent on two standout scenes, the Sea Battle scene, and the now infamous chariot scene which last close to 11 minutes.

  There are quite a few special features on this DVD release most of which appear on side two of this disc including a documentary, Ben Hur: The Making Of An Epic, which is just under an hour long.

  There was an open casting call for the lead role in this film and they have included on this DVD the original screen tests by Leslie Nielsen, and Cesare Danova which are interesting to see even though the quality of the audio and video are not up to the level of the film itself.

  Also included are storyboard art and posters as well as film biographies of the cast with pictures of them in character from the film.

  Overall this film is an incredible piece of work and presented in it's original aspect ratio with the enhanced sound combines to make an experience that should not be missed.

  This film on the small screen does lose a little bit of it's lustre especially if your television is under 27 inches in size but this film begs to be seen in it's broad presentation, so even if you would normally shy away from widescreen presentations, this is the only way to view this film in my honest opinion.

  On a rating scale of Bronze to Platinum...This film receives my highest rating.....Platinum!!!! Run don't walk to pick this DVD up!!!
  
  

• 1925 Version On DVD At Last.

  
  By A3QIW6ULPIPM2V on 2006-03-03
  There is a growing and welcome trend in recent months among DVD releases of classic films. If the title is a remake of a silent film version then the original is now being included along with the remake. Of course it's the remake that gets all the headlines but that is as it should be since most people aren't silent film enthusiasts. I was originally opposed to this idea on economic grounds as multidisc sets are expensive but then it occured to me that without the remake we wouldn't get to see the original at all and this way people can be exposed to the silent versions and hopefully learn to judge them on their own merits. Already we have the 1921 CAMILLE coupled with the 1936 Garbo version and the 1925 WIZARD OF OZ (plus other silent Oz films) newly restored with the classic 1939 version.
  
  Now comes the celebrated 1925 version of BEN-HUR accompanying the even more celebrated 1959 William Wyler/Charlton Heston film on a 4 disc set and later this month the 1923 version Of Cecil B. DeMille's THE TEN COMMANDMENTS will be issued along with a restored version of the 1956 film for its 50th anniversary. As a silent film enthusiast I will comment on the 1925 film as very little has been said about it compared to all that has been said about the much better known 1959 movie. BEN-HUR was once regarded as one of the magnificent follies of the silent era. It took years to make and cost M-G-M around $4,000,000 (approximately half a billion in today's currency). although what they lost in money was more than gained in prestige. The film made M-G-M THE studio in Hollywood, a position they would not relinquish for 30 years. It made a star out of Ramon Novarro and gave Francis X. Bushman at the end of his career the role of a lifetime as Messala. It featured Technicolor sequences (lovingly restored in this presentation), mammoth sets as well as the expected cast of thousands and has the original version of the chariot race which remains just as exciting today as back in 1925. The sea battle between the Pirates and the Roman galleys is even more exciting as it was shot in Italy with real ships and not miniatures.
  
  The one thing that really stands out about this version is how powerful its condemnation of anti-semitism is. The Christian aspects of the story are still there of course but they are on an equal footing with the plight of what it means to be Jewish in a hostile world. The orchestral score by Carl Davis is outstanding and really helps to elevate this into one of the best silent film viewing experiences especially for people unfamiliar with silent films. If only the money were available to treat all of the great silent films this way. Perhaps it will be someday.
  
  

• Surpasses all others in the �Biblical Epic� genre

  
  By A21VYRGFJFVDAL on 2000-03-07
  I've read that director William Wyler wanted to humanize the unwieldy scale of earlier Biblical films. He succeeded. The chariot race may be the hallmark of the movie, but it is the small, human elements that carry the story. Judah Ben-Hur's love for the slave, Esther; his devotion to mother and sister and his transformation from the vengeful slayer of Messalla to follower of Jesus on the road to crucifixion is a character saga of mythic proportions.

  Ben-Hur abounds with stirring dialog and memorable imagery and establishes female characters in strong, defining roles. Mother and daughter endure degradation, imprisonment and disease, living only for the sake of each other and the faint hope that Judah is alive. The love between Esther and Judah is a study of restrained passion. The scenes where Heston and Haya Harareet are together work well, proving the axiom that good actors generate their own chemistry; (and, for Heston, it probably didn't hurt that Harareet was a stunning beauty.)

  A warning to cultural nihilists: religious themes abound! This is, after all, a Biblical Epic. Nativity and Crucifixion scenes may remind you of those "Illustrated Bible" editions you might have seen in Sunday School. But, in the hands of director Wyler, they are splendidly and lovingly rendered. The Jewishness of early Christianity is never questioned; Esther refers to Jesus as "...a young Rabbi," a pacifist and healer who ultimately takes the sword from the hand of Ben-Hur. Overshadowing all is the heavy fist of Imperial Rome, its tyrannical rule driving the people to be, in the words of the departing Tribune, "obsessed with religion."

  As with all great movies it's the secondary players who invite repeated viewings. Two lesser known examples: Frank Thring, as Pontius Pilate, in a speech rich with insinuations of realpolitik, cautions Judah against crossing the will of Rome, ("There are many small men of envy and ambition..."). And Wyler's decision to cast veteran actor George Relph as Tiberius was a stroke of genius. In contrast to the majesty of his surroundings, the Divine Emperor looks rumpled and flea-bitten; more like a neglected grandfather than the power behind the Empire.

  Some of the SFX may be dated, but, in all the ways that count, Wyler's rendering of the Ben-Hur tale has improved with time.
  
  

• Ted Turner doesn't want you watching this film
  By on 1999-10-17
  The fortieth anniversary of "Ben-Hur" came and went and nobody noticed. No restoration. No special limited theatrical re-release. No special DVD issue with commentary by surviving cast and crew members. Nothing. Why? How could a landmark anniversary for such a beloved and important film go completely unnoticed? Because today, the film's lead actor, Charlton Heston, is president of the National Rifle Association. Because the man who now owns the distribution rights of "Ben-Hur" is Ted Turner who disapproves of the likes of the NRA and by association therefore disapproves of Charlteon Heston. Turner does not want "Ben-Hur" restored, re-released, or published on DVD because somehow this might focas more attention on Charlton Heston who is a bad boy because he doesn't hold the same political beleifs that Ted Turner does. And because of the feelings of Ted Turner, the fans of "Ben-Hur" must endure repeated viewings of this film on a lackluster VHS transfer instead of DVD. Ted Turner... isn't he the guy who colorized classic black and white films? Yep. No suprise to me why "Ben-Hur" has never, and will never be released on DVD.
  
  
• The 1925 Silent Classic
  By A2RD8FEU7MKSD5 on 2005-08-21
  In 1924 theatre owner Marcus Lowe organized the merger of three studios. Louis B Mayer was named vice president of the new company and a 25 year old "boy wonder" Irving Thalberg was named head of production. The studio chose for its mascot a roaring lion and the phrase "Ars Gratia Artis": "Art for Art's Sake". The studio was called Metro Goldwyn Mayer. A year later the studio and Thalberg scored their first triumph with Ben Hur. The film set the standard for exelence on which MGM made its reputation.With fine acting from Ramon Navvaro, Technicolor sequences, and the great chariot race, this silent classic is still impressive today and is included in this set. As a bonus, you also get the crappy 1959 remake.
  
  
• The greatest of all widescreen spectacles!!
  By on 1999-08-16
  BEN-HUR

  This is definatly one of my favorite movies of alltime!! For once, an epic film (217 min.), that doesn't get boring atany point. It's a very appealing, very exciting, and very dramatic film. Charlton Heston does an excellent job to depict the somewhat overplayed character. With thousands of extras, 65mm camera, terrific cinematography and special effects, this is a cream-of-the-crop biblical epic.

  The plot is about rivalry of old friends, in this case, Judah Ben-Hur and Messala. Because he won't betray his religion, Messala arrests him for a crime he knows was an accident. He is sent through a Roman Fleet, and continues to stalk Messala for a time for revenge. This takes us to the famous chariot race. For the time, (1959), it was the most expensive sequence, at 1 million dollars.

  What I didn't understand is nothing at all about the movie, it's about how critics redarded the fact that Jesus was involved it the film. Notice that the movie was based on a book, not entitled Ben-Hur, but The Tale of Jesus Christ. I don't want to spoil it the fact anymore, but take this into consideration.

  This is a wonderful widescreen epic, dramatic and entertaining. I'd see it as soon as possible!!
  
  

• Ben-Hur EPIC DVD, 11 Oscars including Best Movie 1959 !!!
  By AW003H7Z3OCHA on 2001-03-22
  Only a handful of motion pictures compare or even come close to this EPIC of EPIC's. (Voted as one of the greatest 100 movies of the last 100 years (1998) by the American Film Institute.

  Ben-Hur won 11 Oscar's in 1959 including the "Big 3", Picture, Director - William Wyler and Actor - Charleton Heston.

  This widescreen digitally restored picture & full sound (stereoized) DVD version is an absolute joy to watch & listen to.

  The cast was meticulously casted and proved to be the right combination to provide the drama for "General Lew Wallace's" epic story.

  In summary; This story parallels the "The Story of the Christ" Wallaces actual book title of this tale.

  The setting is a Roman conquered and imprisoned Judah. There is unrest & possible rebellion in the air. Judah Ben-Hur (Heston) a Jewish Prince and grown childhood friend Roman Centurian Messala (Stephen Boyd) clash with different adult views. Shortly after their falling out a serious accident occurs involving the new Roman Governor & the Hur family. Due to this accident Ben-Hur is arrested & sentenced to be Galley (slave) rower & his family is imprisoned to keep this possible rebellion from occuring. Hur promises he will return and seek Messala with a vengence.

  The movie is a long interesting journey (over 3 hours)of Hur and Christ. Their paths crossing at key times in each ones life. The Sea Battle and the most famous & spectacluar 11 minute chariot race highlights this greatest of tales.

  The DVD extras add to this package !! In closing a movie must for your library.
  
  

• Flawless!!!
  By AMN60P8B0VS45 on 2006-08-28
  This 4-disc set is loaded with extras including the 1925 silent version, but the real bonus is the flawless new transfer of what is definitely one of the best motion pictures ever made. By going back to original 65mm materials, the picture quality is simply stunning revealing color depth and a contrast range never before seen in any of the previous tape, laser disc or DVD versions. The subtlety and mastery that earned Robert Surtees ASC the academy award for best cinematography is clearly revealed in every frame of this bench mark film. If you ever have the opportunity of seeing a 70mm print of this film on a huge screen; jump at the chance! Until then, this new DVD version is a terrific alternative. There are movies and there are motion pictures; William Wyler's production of Ben-Hur defines the term "motion picture."
  
  
• Ben Hur (Four-Disc Collector's Edition) Worth the Price of Admission!
  By A3T4CP0CT8KHJP on 2006-01-13
  For those who already own a DVD of Ben Hur and have been scouring the net, as I have, to see if the new Ben-Hur (Four-Disc Collector's Edition) (1959) is worth the investment, the unequivocal answer is YES!
  
  I first saw Ben Hur at the movies when I was about 10 years old (yes... now you know I'm closer to Attends then Pampers) and revisited it several years after, in the VHS decades and again in the early and late DVD period (yes I do like the movie).
  
  This newly re-mastered version in anamorphic widescreen is absolutely incredible to view (they had to have spent a fortune re-doing this one) as well as listen to, with the addition of enhanced (not overdone) 5.1 surround sound (from six track stereo --- back in 1959).
  
  Enough has been said about how great the story and movie is, and I couldn't agree more, even though I don't have any particular bent for biblical epics. This movie is a classic, in the true sense of the word, and it takes on a new dimension with this particular DVD release.
  
  In reading reviews it is often helpful, I think, to get a sense of the author's realm of experience and what other movies or types of DVD's he or she likes, just to see if there is a correlation of tastes, and so, I offer some of my favorites, in no particular order or type, Saving Private Ryan, Titanic, Eagles (Hell Freezes Over), Sting (the Brand New Day Tour), Inherit the Wind NOT Gone with the Wind (Spencer Tracy and the Scopes monkey trial), Gladiator, Master and Commander, Amadeus, War of the Worlds the Cruise vs...etc.
  
  Enough said.
  
  
• New Edition of Epic Worth Buying Again!
  By A31I3HXMD5H1EL on 2005-09-10
  If you're a film fan, like me, you already own a DVD of the 1959 "Ben-Hur", with additional features, and you may, initially, be reluctant to shell out for the new four-disc set. But this is as close to an 'ultimate' edition as we'll ever see, and the MANY 'extras' it offers makes this THE copy to keep!
  
  Among the many exciting bonuses:
  
  A newly-restored print, with a 'Music Only' track, allowing you to savor one of Miklos Rozsa's greatest scores...
  
  The long-awaited DVD release of MGM's 1925 silent version of "Ben-Hur", with Ramon Novarro in the lead, and beefy Francis X. Bushman as Messala. Arguably the greatest silent film of the 20s (it established MGM as the premier movie studio), it holds its own VERY well against the sound version, with a terrific sea battle and chariot race, two-strip Technicolor in key scenes, and a fabulous 'new' score, composed by Carl Davis. If you've never seen it, you're in for a real treat!
  
  PLUS...
  
  "Ben-Hur: A Journey Through Pictures", which uses preproduction storyboards and sketches to show the metamorphosis of the film from concept to reality. Peter Jackson's "Rings" trilogy 'Bonus Features' really pioneered this concept, but the new "Ben-Hur" edition has taken it to a whole new level, and it shouldn't be missed...
  
  Not one, but TWO documentaries on the making of the epic; the excellent 1994 Christopher Plummer-narrated piece (which was included in the previous "Ben-Hur" release), plus a brand-new documentary, offering insights by modern directors, cinematographers, and other production people on how the film influenced their work; George Lucas (who tends to be a bit dry) acknowledged that the "Ben-Hur" chariot race did influence the pod race in "Star Wars I", and Ridley Scott admitted he watched "Fall of the Roman Empire" and "Ben-Hur" for inspiration, prior to making "Gladiator"...One of the contributors is Charlton Heston's son, Frasier, a gifted filmmaker himself, who offers his own memories of the 'shoot'.
  
  A very enjoyable documentary on the life and career of William Wyler, from 1984, full of home movies, 'behind-the-scene' photos and his last interview before his death...
  
  AND all the extras from the previous release, including trailers, newsreels, screen tests (Leslie Nielson, so serious, is fascinating!), costume and make-up tests, and other goodies.
  
  Finally, commentary by Gene Hatcher, film historian, and scene-specific comments by Charlton Heston, himself...while this 'extra' isn't 'new', Heston's failing health gives his words, recorded for the last "Ben-Hur" edition, a bittersweet quality...When he passes, an era will truly be gone forever...
  
  See why THIS is the DVD edition to own?
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Loved it, but BEWARE of the DVD Special Feature
  By A3UGQ34NTFLFEE on 2004-10-12
  The movie is great throughout the whole 3+ hours. BUT be careful if you're watching the DVD's featurette on the Making Of...they show a scene in the 1925 Ben-Hur movie of TOPLESS WOMEN. No kidding. The featurette is interesting, but you get NO warning for this and I had my 12 yo with me. :o(
  
  
• MAGNIFICENT. A SUPERB PRESENTATION OF AN ALL-TIME GREAT.
  By A30NVSLEMRKEW1 on 2005-09-15
  Warner Brothers first released BEN-HUR on DVD before they started lavishing care on the classics their library.
  
  The first DVD used recycled extras, had an over-enhanced image that was full of artifacts, and had cropped important picture information off the edges, It was too bright, and didn't represent the original look of the film.
  
  All is forgiven now by this stunning 4 disc boxed set which handsomely houses the flim in a stunning, glorious new transfer over two discs, with greater sharpness, more realistic and accurate color representation, and a host of stunning extras.
  
  The Heston commentary on the first disc has been abetted by contributions for BEN HUR historian Gene Hatcher, and the 1994 documentary that was on previous releases has been carried over, but is complemeted by a new one hour docu that has such filmmakers as Ridley Scott and George "star wars" Lucas revealing the influence BEN HUR had on their careers.
  
  The original souvenir program sold in theaters is included, as well as an isolated track of Miklos Rosza's great music score.
  
  But what matters most is this timeless film, which has never looked or sounded better.
  
  
• Surpasses all others in the �Biblical Epic� genre
  By A21VYRGFJFVDAL on 2000-02-27
  Despite forty years of bashing by cynical critics, William Wyler's Ben-Hur lives on as the archetype of epic moviemaking. By skillfully counterbalancing the majestic with the mundane, Wyler sought to humanize the unwieldy scale of earlier Biblical films. And, while the gripping chariot race is considered the hallmark of the film, it is the small, human elements that carry the story. Judah Ben-Hur's love for the slave, Esther; his devotion to mother and sister and his transformation from the vengeful slayer of Messalla to follower of Jesus on the road to crucifixion is a heroic character saga of a type many find unfashionable in today's world.

  The film abounds with stirring dialog and memorable imagery. Witness the cruel centurion who leads Ben-Hur and others in chains to the galleys. "No water for that one!" he commands, pointing to the bleeding and parched Ben-Hur. And when Jesus himself emerges to disobey the order, the Roman stands transfixed and impotent; the camera simply pauses for a moment and allows us to study the conflict expressed in the man's shamed and guilt-ridden face. This scene is a small masterpiece of deft acting and direction.

  Or Messalla, having lost the chariot race, lies crushed and near death, awaiting the arrival of Ben-Hur. A surgeon nervously pushes for permission to begin an amputation of his legs. "I won't receive him as half a man!" he screams. When Judah finally arrives Messalla gleefully recounts the fate of his mother and sister, enjoying the horror it instills in Ben-Hur's eyes. In a veiled and malignant reference to how the hatred of men perpetuates itself, Masallah sputters with his last breath: "It goes on, Judah... The race, it goes on..."

  Though notorious as a "guy" film, Ben-Hur establishes female characters in strong, defining roles. Mother and daughter endure degradation, imprisonment and disease, living only for the sake of each other and the faint hope that Judah is alive. Released from prison, disfigured and self-banished as lepers, they plead with Esther to convince Judah that they are dead, wishing only to be remembered, "as we were". They hobble away into the shadows, sorrowfully locked in each other's arms, but spiritually renewed by a stolen glimpse of Ben-Hur in the distance. The love between Esther and Judah is a study of restrained passion. The scenes where Heston and Haya Harareet are together work well, proving the axiom that good actors generate their own chemistry; (and, for Heston, it probably didn't hurt that Harareet was a stunning beauty.)

  A warning to cultural nihilists: religious themes abound! This is, after all, a Biblical Epic. Nativity and Crucifixion scenes may remind you of those "Illustrated Bible" editions you might have seen in Sunday School. But, in the hands of director Wyler, they are splendidly and lovingly rendered. The Jewishness of early Christianity is never questioned; Esther refers to Jesus as "...a young Rabbi," a pacifist and healer who ultimately takes the sword from the hand of Ben-Hur. Overshadowing all in Judea is the heavy fist of Imperial Rome, its tyrannical rule driving the people to be, in the words of the departing Tribune, "obsessed with religion."

  As with all great movies it is the secondary players who invite repeated viewings. Ben-Hur has many notables in small, vivid roles. Two lesser known examples: Frank Thring, as Pontius Pilate, in a speech rich with insinuations of realpolitic, cautions Judah against crossing the will of Rome, ("There are many small men of envy and ambition..."). And Wyler's decision to cast veteran actor George Relph as Tiberius was a stroke of genius. In marked contrast to the majesty of his surroundings, the Divine Emperor looks rumpled and flea-bitten; more like a neglected grandfather than the power behind the Empire.

  Ben-Hur is a sumptuous delight of lavish craftsmanship. It cries out for a DVD edition that gives credit to its spectacular photography as well a (justly famous) musical score. Ted Turner, are you listening?
  
  

• Spectacular Silent Version of Wallace Classic!
  By A31I3HXMD5H1EL on 2004-11-10
  With the record number of Oscars won by the William Wyler 1959 version of BEN-HUR, there is a tendency to overlook the monumental 1925 production, which established MGM as a studio to be reckoned with. Well, if you've never seen the earlier version, you may be in for a surprise...it is as enjoyable in nearly every way!
  
  Certainly, some of the performances (particularly Francis X. Bushman's scenery-chewing Messala) are cartoonish, the film lacks the widescreen splendor and scope of it's successor, and the 'Wyler Touch', the infinite care the legendary director poured over every detail, is sorely missed. But the 1925 production, beset by so many problems that it became the most expensive film ever made, brought new production head Irving Thalberg into the limelight, and his first decision was brilliant, firing the current director, and bringing in veteran director Fred Niblo to take charge. Niblo brought an energy and sense of intimacy to the silent "Ben-Hur" that is actually often lacking in the later version. The finished film, as a whole, is far closer in spirit to General Lew Wallace's novel, and young leading man Ramon Novarro (with a sexy intensity reminiscent of Tyrone Power), makes a far more charismatic and sympathetic Ben-Hur than Charlton Heston's more iconic portrayal.
  
  The 1959 version is remembered today primarily for the chariot race, one of the most spectacular action sequences ever filmed. But what of the other 'set piece', the gigantic sea battle between the Roman and pirate fleets? The scene is patently artificial, obviously comprised of model ships in a tank and rear projections (watch the tiny toy seamen jiggle as ships collide!) The 1925 version's chariot race is fast-paced and certainly exciting, and the sea battle is astonishing, using full-sized ships and hundreds of extras (shot in Italy, where an actual fire broke out on the ships during the battle...the extras' panic onscreen was NOT acting...)
  
  With an early two-strip Technicolor to emphasize key scenes (the Nativity, the new Roman Consul's arrival in Jerusalem...yes, those ARE topless women leading the procession!), and a wonderful, stirring new musical score by Carl Davis, Fred Niblo's BEN-HUR is a treasure, a film certainly worthy to stand beside the 1959 version!
  
  
• Every time I see this I get charged.
  By A3C6CZC2JP67VK on 2008-04-17
  It's definitely one of my favorites of all time because it's got stuff that most movies don't have: Everything. MGM and company unintentionally created a work of popular art that could only be fully appreciated in its original, pristine print, 70mm, super widescreen glory. It is no longer possible to make a film like Ben-Hur. Oh, George Lucas tries with all his computerized graphics, but this is a REAL spectacle, not some virtual one. 8,000 extras, tens of thousands of costumes, a $15 million budget (in the 1950's!), massive sets depict the power of Rome on the grandest possible scale. It took six years to complete production. Yet, its focus remains sharply on the detail, the private human experience of it all. The story doesn't get lost in the enormous vision of the work.
  
  Ben-Hur is a drama at its best. It's the story of a family that had it all, was destroyed and then given their lives back. Ben Hur depicts both the best and worst of the Roman Empire, its glory and progress and the oppression of the less fortunate who lived under its rule.
  
  There are two action scenes that really get my heart pounding each time this. First, the scene on the galley where the slaves are put through a grueling, forced rowing of their ship under the eye of General Quintus Arrius. The way that scene builds with the alternating of the camera from the slaves to the drums to the general, all the while picking up the pace, is quite riveting. Second, the chariot race. Some of the best action ever produced by Hollywood. The race itself keeps people on the edge of their seats. It appears to have been put together close to real time, which makes it all the greater.
  
  Although the movie slows down after the race I am still moved by what happens later. The movie follows up with how Judah dealt with the festering anger inside him and what happens to his mother and sister. His love, Esther, helps the family and tries to console Judah. I really like the character of Esther that is portrayed.
  
  Most of all, the greatest character of all in this movie is that of Christ. In Christ we see someone suffering without the hatred and vengeance that is so shown by Judah. A favorite scene of mine is when Christ gives Judah water to drink. The Roman commander orders him to stop. Jesus looks at him and the soldier is speechless. That says it all.
  
  Charlton Heston has said that this movie could not be made today because of the prohibitive budget that would be required. Heston gives a sensitive and intelligent performance, as does most of the supporting cast. Ben-Hur's 11 Oscar nominations has been equaled by very few films. There have been similar efforts in the past (The Ten Commandments (50th Anniversary Collection), Cleopatra, etc.) but nothing matches the dramatic intimacy balanced with the epic extravagance of Ben-Hur. Truly a film in a class by itself and an actor that will be miss.
  
  
  
• Ben Hur
  By on 2001-03-24
  This film is one of the greats. It is very disappointing that the disk must be flipped over, which takes time and is distracting.
  
  
• The Thinking Man's Epic
  By A2F7XTL4KHDZME on 2002-10-04
  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.
  
  
• Much superior to the Heston version
  By A2WLZD9BY669HY on 2003-07-07
  Wow! Even if you have little experience with silent movies, even if you erroneously believe that the 1959 Charlton Heston version of this movie surpasses all, you must see this film. It is a cinematic masterpiece, sumptuously photographed, faithful to Lew Wallace's novel and many scenes will quite simply knock your socks off.

  Ramon Novarro is handsome, boyish and enchanting as Judah Ben-Hur. His performance is infinitely beyond anything Heston is capable of delivering. He plays Ben-Hur as the character was presented in the novel, devoid of ths histrionics, anger and over-acting which plagued the remake. Francis Bushman does overact and give an excessively bravuro performance as Mesalla, but he's not on screen as much as Stephen Boyd would be later on.

  And what about the color sequences? Yes, there was actually color movies made in 1927, a fact I did not know. There are several color sequences which stun and fascinate. The chariot scene is epic and among the most stellar scenes ever shot in movie history; the same can be said for the galley scene, where the slaves sit three in a row and are rammed to death by Pirates on the high seas. Again, the 1959 version cannot hold a candle to this version in the epic, grand scenes.

  Get this movie and cherish it. I've watched it three times in the past month and am amazed at its scope, depth and power. Beautiful masterpiece!
  
  

• Classic Spectacle
  By A2B73CL3QSYWLB on 2004-09-26
  "Ben-Hur" is a great example of the kind of large scale film-making that Hollywood occasionally did and in this case they did it first rate. Probably what killed this kind of film-making is the excesses of later spectacles like "Cleopatra". Thankfully, with the help of CGI, it was revived with "Gladiator". Much has been said about the classic set-pieces (the chariot race, the battle at sea, etc.). The central conflict of this film between the former friends Judah(Charlton Heston), the Hebrew, and Messala(Stephen Boyd), the Roman Centurion is what is most compelling about this film. Boyd's rendering of the despicable Messala ranks as one of the great acts of villainy in screen history. Heston, who many dismiss unfairly as a lesser actor(probably because of his conservative politics and presidency in the NRA) gives a commanding performance which is not an easy task when you're working on an epic scale like this. His work in "The Ten Commandments" was probably good preparation for this film. Lest we forget this film is also subtitled "A Story of the Christ". Jesus makes appearances in this film, photographed from behind and usually with swelling music. Basically these scenes are a cue to forget our bitterness, no matter what injury has been done to us, because there are larger things in life than our current predicament. On a final note the DVD contains a first rate documentary as well as a great commentary track from Heston that dispels the legendary rumor that he was wearing a wristwatch during the chariot race scenes.
  
  
• Pseudo epic from the 50's
  By AOXF3WD1Y6PQM on 2004-10-29
  This film has dated very badly. First of all, the picture drags and is poorly paced and structured. Even the silent version isn't this dull. Most of the acting is wooden (Charlton Heston, Finlay Curie) or overblown (Hugh Griffith, Stephen Boyd). Haya Harareet (Esther) looks like a starlet who just walked through the doors of the MGM Make-up Department. At no time does she suggest someone supposedly living more than 2000 years ago. The music by Miklos Rozsa is overblown and keeps on blasting away even when silence would have worked better. Even the chariot race is so-so with the camera truck tire tracks clearly visible throughout. I think most people who rave about this film just have a hard time accepting the fact that something they liked when the younger simply hasn't held up very well.
  
  
• Ben-Hur: A Tale of A Great Epic
  By ATP9LYGM6D3RO on 2005-09-19
  The standard by which all Hollywood epics must be held, both the 1925 & 1959 versions of Ben-Hur stand as two pinnacles which bracket the golden age of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM).
  
  As you are probably familiar with the story, I will limit my comments to the presentation of this new 4-disc DVD;
  
  The outer sleeve is surprisingly flimsy and one must be a bit careful in pulling the main section in and out, otherwise you could easily dent and rip the sleeve. The casing for the DVDs is somewhat similar to the "Frasier" series and includes a nifty booklet.
  
  The 1959 version of Ben-Hur is presented on the first two discs in the widescreen format and the movie has never looked better. Especially impressive are the numerous close-ups in which the actors look like they are right in your living room. The Technicolor process is still unmatched today and the 65mm format in which Ben-Hur was filmed is quite stunning.
  
  The extras for these two discs are two items;
  - Feature commentary by Charlton Heston & film historian T. Gene Hatcher. Heston simply relates the stories behind the scenes (some of which you probably have heard before) and comments about how good each and every actor is (I'm waiting for a commentary where an actor tells how terrible someone is) while Mr. Hatcher gives more details about each scene, points out bloopers and who was considered for each role before filming began (his point about Robert Ryan as Masala is one I definately agree with).
  
  - A music-only track where Miklos Rozsa's Oscar winning sountrack can be heard by itself. This is a great feature and one which I hope is done on more DVDs.
  
  Disc 3 consists of the 1925 version of Ben-Hur. Unfortunately, there is no commentary track or other extras. A shame really since this version has some facinating trivia, as well as being a great film in and of itself.
  
  Disc 4 has two full documentaries;
  - 2005 Ben-Hur: The Epic that changed Cinema. Features many modern Hollywood notables including George Lucas, Ridley Scott, & especially interesting is cinametographer Ernest Dickerson commenting on how this version of Ben-Hur is the first "modern" Hollywood epic. I don't know if I agree with that (I think it should be "Spartacus", but I'm sure that there's plenty of room for discussion), but it is an entertaining, if not particularly enlightening hour.
  
  - 1994 Ben Hur: The Making of an Epic: I believe this was shown on Turner Classic Movies, but anyway, it's the ultimate documentary on the history of Hur from the initial book through the 1959 film.
  
  - Ben Hur: A Journey Through Pictures: This is pretty much a waste of five minutes. Basically, it's mostly photos from production stills edited to Rozsa's score.
  
  - Vintage Newsreels: Several short newsreels that cover the openings of "Ben-Hur" at various locations, including the world premier in New York City. Nothing really all that interesting about them, except perhaps that you get an idea of just how big this film was in terms of appeal & noteriety. The newsreel of "Ben-Hur" opening in Japan is the most interesting.
  
  - Screen Tests: Only three actual "tests" are included, most famously the one of Leslie "Way Before Airplane" Nielson as Masala, who tries hard but it was probably a good idea that he wasn't cast in the role. I'm assuming that these three tests are the only ones to survive, because it would've been interesting to see a greater sample.
  
  The sole make-up test included is one of the lovely Haya Harareet in an odd-looking gold headress and RED? hair, making her look more like a queen from an Italian gladiator film (in fact, this make-up footage could be from "Journey Under the Desert" a 1961 film where the publicity photo shows her in an almost identical headdress). Rozsa's "love theme" score is also included here and it makes for a interesting five minutes of Ms. Harareet looking rather bemused. Although for sharp-eyed enthusiasts, you may want a second look at her "top" (which looks suspiciously like a modern bra) because I think it's see-through.
  
  - Trailers: Again, not much of interest here, unless you are interested in the progression of how "Ben-Hur" was marketed via trailers. It is interesting that the first one (released before the film opened) shows very little of the movie itself.
  
  - 1960 Oscar Highlights; This feature is poorly edited with the sound popping in and out (which probably was on the original recording). Why this was so badly done is beyond me since many of the sound "mistakes" could've been edited out. One thing it does reveal is just how short acceptance speeches were back then, a lesson for the long-winded winners of today.
  
  Overall, this collection is one for the fans and while it may not be the last one (I can definately see an "ultimate" edition with more screen/make-up tests coming along), it certainly is complete enough for all but the most ardent fanatics. It also gives a chance to compare both the 1925 & 1959 films which reveals that the original still has moments that outshine it's more famous remake.
  
  
  
  
  
• One of the best examples of Old Hollywood craftmanship...
  By A2UYAFQ40U2PHS on 2007-03-14
  This is a spectacular edition of 2 of the greatest epics that Hollywood produced. They can serve as a reminder that not everything Hollywood put out was garbage, and that remakes can be better if they can improve on the original. The 1925 version is spectacular enough, costing an unprecedented 4 million at the time, and while not as good as the 1959 version, it's worth seeing and it's one of the best examples of silent film. The 1959 version is brilliant. Despite the film being almost 4 hours, it is never boring, even after the chariot race (contrary to rumour, the film doesn't end with the chariot race). The narrative arc of the story is so well done that it more than keeps your interest. Charlton Heston won an Oscar for his excellent performance, and Stephen Boyd and Jack Hawkins are superlative as well. The chariot race is amazing to watch. It goes on for quite some time, and there is not one word of dialogue spoken throughout it. Today, Heston and Boyd would be makin' snarky wisecracks at each other, and it would all be CGI. Knowing that the chariots, horses, racetrack, and actors are all real, makes this sequence even more gripping. Word to current filmmakers. The 1959 version of Ben-Hur is why you should remake something. First, the new version is in colour, it has sound, and it's shot in widescreen. These are great improvements over the 1925 version. There was a real valid reason to remake it (screw that "reimagning" rubbish), instead of a bald faced attempt to make money. Cecil B. DeMille was originally scheduled to direct this, but died before any pre-production work started. It was taken over by William Wyler, one of Hollywood's neglected directors. This film was shot in 2.75:1, the widest aspect ratio ever used. Only a handful of films were shot that way (The Greatest Story Ever Told was a notable one). It's truly spectacular, one of those brilliant epics that the old studio system cranked out quite prolifically.
  
  
• It's "THE EPIC".
  By AAHDREJKAUFXA on 1999-07-01
  I think 5-stars is not enough for this great movie. I've seen this film more than 10 times and each time I see it, it makes a new impression on me.
  I find Stephen Boyd's acting brilliant, not to mention Charlton Heston's.
  - Messala : "You've no other choice. You're either for me or against me."
  - Judah : "If that is the choice, then I am against you."
  I am touched by the sequence in which the conflict between the two old friends reaches the peak and the friendship turns into enmity, which comes from the sad situation of the conqueror and conquered.
  I am also very much impressed by the struggling look of the eyes of Judah's on the galley and I like the breathtaking chariot race sequence the most as many other people do.
  It's really sorrowful when Judah meets his mother and sister in the valley of the lepers but the last scene is lovely with a happy ending.
  This film has conflict, tragedy, victory, revenge, humour, belief, love and more in it. All of these made up the immortal masterpiece.
  Ben-hur is the best movie that I've ever seen and I want to give it 5+1 stars.
  
  
• Our Folk`s Gladiator.
  By A32RSA7CQCLKT5 on 2001-03-24
  Just as we "Young Un`s" lined up to awe at Ridley Scott`s and Russell Crowe`s virtual epic tour of the Roman world in "Gladiator", it`s sometimes hard to imagine that our own parents (or even great-grandparents in that matter) lined up to awe at epic visions they shall always call their own. William Wyler`s and Charton Heston`s "Ben-Hur" delivered these visions and even more. This film, complete with physical struggle and emotional anguish, blended with eternal themes of personal retribution and divine redemption, proves that even a forty year old film can carry the same compelling messages and visions without the aid of digital reality. At times, I found this film to surpass "Gladiator" on many sides. I`ll be quite blunt about it, Stephen Boyd`s Massala was a more vicious opponent to Judah Ben-Hur than Joaquin Phoenix`s Commodus was to Maximus. Sure, Commodus showed no mercy as he swiftly swiped Maximus`s identity away from the Roman sphere of power after Maximus defied his claim to power, but Massala took a more deliberate act of personal retribution to vanquish his blood brother`s standing in Judea, illustating Massala`s stern allegiance to the Roman Way. Yes, the acting is a bit theatric at times and there is a very overt religious message attached, but if you watch "Ben-Hur" closely you will understand how well constructed these parallels are. As far as the Chariot spectacle goes, sorry Ridley, but this scene shall always be film`s greatest tribute to Rome`s ancient glory. The organic vitality of this scene is simply unmatched in speed, fury, and urgency, and its surprising outcome will leave you shocked! Clearly, you will be at a loss if you don`t experienece "Ben-Hur", not only as a source of inspiration for our own epics, but also as a glimpse into the spectacles and values our older family members saw and learned from. The DVD is a complete evening of entertainment, really! Take time to notice the subleties of the color and sound. Later, relish the outstanding documentary film about this production. If you watch and listen very closely, you might notice that they never needed a computer to accomplish some very convincing illusions of size ans splendor, but that`s just movie magic for you, it inspires generation after generation, as this film always will. Watch "Ben-Hur", enjoy it with your family. And hey, do watch it side to side with "Gladiator" and notice their similarities, their differences and their wonder. But most of all, learn from it, and treasure it forever!
  
  
• Ben Hur
  By A29R4FCO6RFX4K on 2005-07-29
  One of the landmarks of epic and, arguably world cinema, Wyler's 'Ben-Hur' holds up well today. It was conceived by MGM as an eventual follow up to the success of Quo Vadis? (1951). Almost four hours in length, including substantial overture and entr'acte music by the redoubtable Miklos Rozsa, the film garnered 11 Oscars in its year - a feat echoed recently by Scott's 'Gladiator', to which unsurprisingly it bears some resemblances. (The return of the wronged, or the cathartic role of the arena for instance) But there are vital differences, principal of which is the fact that, while Scott's epic is a pagan film predicated around the expectation of glorious death, Wyler's work is deeply Christian: "a Tale of the Christ" as the titles announce, hinging on the acceptance of eternal life.
  'Ben-Hur' has a very considered structure, following Juden Ben-Hur's life and reconstruction, interposed with scenes from the life of Christ. In the first half we see Ben-Hur's fall from wealth and influence as a merchant, onto his fortunes as galley slave, rescuer and friend of a roman consul Quintus Arrius (Jack Hawkins), then successful charioteer before returning to Judea to claim his vengeance. The second half includes the climactic chariot race between him and his enemy Masala, his confrontation with his mother and sister's leprous condition and, finally, Ben-Hur's witnessing of the crucifixion. Thanks to spectacular scenes such as the galley battle, the entry into Rome and, not least, the 20-minute chariot race (which took three months to film), attention in this mammoth epic rarely flags. Having said that, the first half of 'Ben-Hur' has more energy than the second, an issue primarily springing from the source novel. Wallace, its author, had planned his story so Ben-Hur's bitterness peaked just before the great race. Once the competition set piece is over and Massala dispatched, longer contemplative scenes inevitably follow as Ben-Hur broods on injustices. Like the leprosy of his relatives, he has a sickness albeit not physical, which must be cured, whilst in terms of action his rage has effectively exhausted itself.
  
  As the principal male hero, Ben-Hur is one half of three strong male relationships in turn (Ben-Hur/Masala, Ben-Hur/Arrius and Ben-Hur/Sheik Ilderim). Although the relationships are fraternal, Ben-Hur's unmarried status, as well as the closeness of these associations with other single males (Arrius's wife is dead and Ilderim's several remain curiously unavailable) are enough to raise a vague question mark, at least in the minds of modern audiences. Kubrick would explore the homosexual elements prominent in ancient cultures more explicitly in 'Spartacus' a year later). In the more conservative 'Ben-Hur' the closest we get to the homoerotic torsos - a characteristic of the peplum cycle from Italy born on the back of such successful films as this - is the sight of an oiled and pampered Massala accepting Ilderim's bet with his fellow athletes and colleagues.
  Lew Wallace conceived 'Ben-Hur' as a didactic work as much as one of historical adventure, key moments in the life of Christ to be viewed in connection with those of an aggrieved man of action. Understandably, the film makes more of the possibilities of action, and less of the religious message. One result of this is that it is noticeably successful in communicating reverence without boredom, a fault of several other 1950s epics. Always difficult to portray, Christ is never heard speaking directly, his face never seen. Instead we witness the impact he has on people's lives. Instead of Christ the man, we have the events he occasions: the Passion is treated as an event of political significance to Judah and his family. The socializing of the Christian message is in evidence, rather than any crude proselytizing. But once Massala is gone, Christ's continuing 'unavailability' to the viewer reveals a dramatic lack: we miss a necessary balance to Ben-Hur's strengths and convictions, where another rounded character might have stood. Ben-Hur's conscience fights on, but in a campaign vacuum as it were, and because of it he becomes weaker.
  
  Interestingly, although Rome as an invading force is decried by Ben-Hur, apart from the harsh life of slaves and some enforced tax collecting there is very little to criticize in the Imperial occupation of Judea. Messala's twisted sense of justice is clearly a personal aberration, springing from his ambition. Both Tiberius and Pontius Pilate (who offers the Judean his citizenship) appear as reasonable men. Christ's trial is presented very briefly and then seen only at conclusion. One Roman even admits that Christian dogma is "quite profound really." Ben-Hur perhaps implicitly grants the value of Rome as much, accepting the role of Arrius' son, even appearing before Massala in a toga. If not quite a tacit acceptance of 'what the Romans have done for us', Ben-Hur could be far more condemnatory towards those fighting the fledgling religion of the Jews. Truly the film takes Christ's words "they know not what they do" as understood.
  'Ben-Hur' then, is that rare creature, the restrained epic. Perhaps because the source is a novel than taken direct from the Bible, it manages to balance the sublime and ridiculous into a still-satisfying whole, balancing great spectacle on the one hand with subtle veneration on the other. Together with Wyler's direction, Heston's tailor-made presence, Rozsa's grand score and a unleaden cliché-free script it still makes 'Ben-Hur' first.
  
  
• The Epic of all Epics!
  By on 1999-12-01
  I am astounded that this motion picture has not been released on DVD. I know that Ted Turner does not see eye to eye with Charlton Heston and the NRA, but please Mr. Turner don't let politics influence the non-DVD release of the greatest epic film of all time. And yes, this includes Titanic. I'll take a Ben-Hur DVD edition without an interview with Charlton Heston if that would help. The acting by the entire cast in this wonderful motion picture was incredible. I thought Best Supporting Actor honors should have gone to both Hugh Griffith (who won) and Stephen Boyd. The Director, William Wyler, certainly deserved his academy award. He pulled out the best performances from every actor. The "no special effects" chariot race sequence may never be equaled. So, please Mr. Turner, don't keep us waiting any longer for the DVD edition of the best movie in your MGM inventory!
  
  
• Sandals & Robe Classic
  By A1GN8UJIZLCA59 on 2001-03-21
  William Wyler's Ben-Hur is actually the third version of the film to appear. It was first done as a silent film, then remade in the 1920's and then tackled in this epic version. The film literally employed a cast of thousands and at the time of its release in 1959 was a technical marvel. Forty years later the film still stands up and the DVD version perfectly captures the grandeur of the film. The chariot race is one of the most famous scenes in movie history and despite all the technological advances has yet to be duplicated or surpassed. Charlton Heston won his only Oscar in the title role and he's at his bombastic, self-righteous and over-emoting best. Jack Hawkins is excellent as his one-time best friend turned rival and Hugh Griffith is delightful as the sheik who supplies Ben Hur with the horses for the chariot race. Mr. Griffith also won an Oscar as Best Supporting Actor and Mr. Wyler won his third Best Director award as the film went on to win an unprecedented 11 awards (including Best Picture). That was record that stood until 1997 when Titanic matched it. One complaint about an otherwise superb DVD release is that instead of putting the almost four hour film along with all the extra material onto two disks, they made one double-sided disk. The lettering distinguishing the two sides is extremely small and difficult to figure out and it is a nuisance to get up during the film to flip the disk over.
  
  
• Great film, not a great DVD
  By AECVYXIL9791R on 2001-04-09
  Ben-Hur is one of the greatest films of all time, winning 11 Academy Awards, including the award for best film of 1959. It should have had a better DVD treatment. Instead of using two discs, the movie is put on two sides of the same disc. That is too bad, and smacks of cheapness. By Comparison, Cleopatra, a less accomplished film, was put on two discs, with a third disc with bonus material thrown in for good measure. (And for about the same price.) The two-sided format will not bode well for long-term durability.

  The master film that the DVD was made from does not seem to be restored footage, and some of it shows wear. There are many dark places on the film, and DVD generally does not do well with dark screen areas, including those on this disc. (It should be noted that the DVD of "Spartacus" had the same problem, and that was made from a restored master). On one occasion, my player had difficulty reading one of the sides; I'm not sure why. The widescreen version wastes a large amount of screen real estate in an attempt to preserve as much of the aspect ratio as possible, given the super-wide 70 millimeter Panavision process that the movie was shot in. Don't bother trying to watch this movie on anything smaller than a 27 inch TV; in fact, this disc really calls for 36 inches or more of screen space. Despite these limitations, and given the price, this disc should be part of any basic DVD collection.
  
  

• The Ten Commandments (50th Anniversary Collection)
• The Robe
• Lawrence of Arabia (Single Disc Edition)
• El Cid (Two-Disc Deluxe Edition) (The Miriam Collection)
• Cleopatra