I was about 11 years old when I first saw The Ten Commandments. Seeing it on VHS, DVD, and television in a whole decade, I have probably seen this masterpiece 7 times from start to finish, including last night on ABC. With nearly a 4 hour run time, that is quite time consuming, but well worth it.
The movie was directed by Cecil B. DeMille, who, in his last and most known movie, uses the Books of Moses in the Bible and historical documents to bring an epic on the story of Moses-how he went from a baby saved from death to the leader of God's chosen people.
The movie clearly uses Exodus 1-14, 20, and 32 to tell the story. While other Bible quotes and scenes are used, the Exodus passages are the main focus.
However, it is important to note that according to the credits at the start, other historical writings were used, and both Jewish and Christian historians were consulted as well. So, when the movie is not following Scripture, keep in mind that a historical source is being used then.
From a visual viewpoint, The Ten Commandments IS visually stunning. From the costumes to the ancient Egyptian buildings and statues, to the effects, it's quite fascinating. Even the Red Sea parting, which looks a little bit dated 64 years later, is still chilling to witness.
The acting is on par as well. Moses is famously played by Charlton Heston, in arguably his best role. (I used to say Ben-Hur was best, though I do think his portrayal of Moses is better and more powerful. I can see the argument for either of those movies being better.)
Anyways, Yul Brynner is Ramses, who was Pharaoh when the slaves were freed. This is tradition, not Biblical, but it still works for the story. This is most likely done to give him a name instead of just referring to him as Pharaoh. (Fun Fact: Yul was in The King and I the same year as The King of Siam.)
I won't take the time to talk about the other actors, but they all do a great job playing their part. Some lines weren't well delivered at times, but the high majority of their work is superb.
Despite some minor flaws, as an epic, I consider The Ten Commandments to be a masterpiece. It's been beloved by many for decades, and it's no wonder why. Even my Grandma gave this a 10 when we viewed it last night, and she rarely does that.
No matter your religious beliefs, or lack thereof, The Ten Commandments should be considered to be a must see as an epic and a piece of classic cinema. There is enough spectacle and entertainment to more than justify the film taking up 1/6 of your day. For epic film-making and powerful storytelling, thou shalt see The Ten Commandments!
Note: Happy Palm Sunday, and I hope all reading this have a great Easter, even in these tough times! :)
The movie was directed by Cecil B. DeMille, who, in his last and most known movie, uses the Books of Moses in the Bible and historical documents to bring an epic on the story of Moses-how he went from a baby saved from death to the leader of God's chosen people.
The movie clearly uses Exodus 1-14, 20, and 32 to tell the story. While other Bible quotes and scenes are used, the Exodus passages are the main focus.
However, it is important to note that according to the credits at the start, other historical writings were used, and both Jewish and Christian historians were consulted as well. So, when the movie is not following Scripture, keep in mind that a historical source is being used then.
From a visual viewpoint, The Ten Commandments IS visually stunning. From the costumes to the ancient Egyptian buildings and statues, to the effects, it's quite fascinating. Even the Red Sea parting, which looks a little bit dated 64 years later, is still chilling to witness.
The acting is on par as well. Moses is famously played by Charlton Heston, in arguably his best role. (I used to say Ben-Hur was best, though I do think his portrayal of Moses is better and more powerful. I can see the argument for either of those movies being better.)
Anyways, Yul Brynner is Ramses, who was Pharaoh when the slaves were freed. This is tradition, not Biblical, but it still works for the story. This is most likely done to give him a name instead of just referring to him as Pharaoh. (Fun Fact: Yul was in The King and I the same year as The King of Siam.)
I won't take the time to talk about the other actors, but they all do a great job playing their part. Some lines weren't well delivered at times, but the high majority of their work is superb.
Despite some minor flaws, as an epic, I consider The Ten Commandments to be a masterpiece. It's been beloved by many for decades, and it's no wonder why. Even my Grandma gave this a 10 when we viewed it last night, and she rarely does that.
No matter your religious beliefs, or lack thereof, The Ten Commandments should be considered to be a must see as an epic and a piece of classic cinema. There is enough spectacle and entertainment to more than justify the film taking up 1/6 of your day. For epic film-making and powerful storytelling, thou shalt see The Ten Commandments!
Note: Happy Palm Sunday, and I hope all reading this have a great Easter, even in these tough times! :)