Review of Ben-Hur (1959) by Todd H — 14 Dec 2012
My favorite interpretation of 'Ben-Hur' is not as a 'Tale of the Christ', but instead as a questioning of faith. Whereas Mel Gibson's Christ story was a blunt instrument, this epic focuses on how a quest for revenge can be tested by any set of religious beliefs.
To me, faith is a highly personal matter, so as Charlton Heston's beliefs are evaluated (often in refreshingly long takes that show film's true power in writing, framing, and acting) and we pull for him to achieve victory, it is his inner struggle with his consciousness and his links with the new 'Jewish teacher from Nazareth' that keep the film grounded and personalized.
(I love how Jesus's face is never shown, but the camera and music still manage to portray him as the solution to all problems.) So, even after the great chariot race ends and the bitter hero has ended his 4-year long quest for redemption, we still want Ben-Hur to reconnect with his family and to achieve some sort of inner peace.
Even if the viewer does not believe in the Christ, he is still elated that Ben-Hur's belief has provided comfort and closure for the hero. It doesn't matter what others believe, the film is telling me, as long as your beliefs shine a light on your path.
This review of Ben-Hur (1959) was written by Todd H on 14 Dec 2012.
Ben-Hur has generally received very positive reviews.
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