Colourful biblical tale with a glamorous cast headlined by newcomer Eden, playing a sensual beauty whose careless arrogance gradually gives way to unwavering humility under the attention and moral teaching of Judean artisan Tryon.
It's on par with it's contemporaries, and fun to see the always menacing Thayer David playing the evil Hedak prepare to immolate a sacrificial child under the watchful eye of the almighty (and somewhat befuddled looking) King played by future bumbling Sgt Schultz of Stalag 13, John Banner. Victor Buono also makes his film debut as an Ill-tempered soldier whose snobbish officiousness inadvertently saves the young Ruth's life.
It's a full hour before rugged Stuart Whitman strides into the ensuing conflict, by which time Ruth's transformation from vacuous prima donna to spirited servant of God is in full swing. Her epiphany made more melodramatic by tragedy, she's now compelled to spread the message to the faithful (although her past threatens to condemn her).
B-movie star Jeff Morrow also shows up around this time as a competitor to Whitman for Ruth's affection (he also humorously likens himself to a ripening cabbage such is the sometimes inane dialogue), setting up a climactic love triangle.
Equal parts romance, melodrama and topped with a sprinkling of action, it's a well-intentioned tale made on a mid-range studio budget, not epic status but sophisticated enough to hold the interest and not only for the faithful.
It's on par with it's contemporaries, and fun to see the always menacing Thayer David playing the evil Hedak prepare to immolate a sacrificial child under the watchful eye of the almighty (and somewhat befuddled looking) King played by future bumbling Sgt Schultz of Stalag 13, John Banner. Victor Buono also makes his film debut as an Ill-tempered soldier whose snobbish officiousness inadvertently saves the young Ruth's life.
It's a full hour before rugged Stuart Whitman strides into the ensuing conflict, by which time Ruth's transformation from vacuous prima donna to spirited servant of God is in full swing. Her epiphany made more melodramatic by tragedy, she's now compelled to spread the message to the faithful (although her past threatens to condemn her).
B-movie star Jeff Morrow also shows up around this time as a competitor to Whitman for Ruth's affection (he also humorously likens himself to a ripening cabbage such is the sometimes inane dialogue), setting up a climactic love triangle.
Equal parts romance, melodrama and topped with a sprinkling of action, it's a well-intentioned tale made on a mid-range studio budget, not epic status but sophisticated enough to hold the interest and not only for the faithful.