Review of Ben-Hur (1959) by Tim L — 22 Mar 2009
This is one of those epic, classic films that I've alwas wanted to see. However, without meaning to sound like a complete philostine, I found most of it excrutiatingly dull and slow paced (and not because of the age of the film or the length - 2 of my favourite films are the Apartment which is from a year later, and Lord of the Rings trilogy, which runs at over 16 hours!) .
It's true that the chariot race scene is incredible to watch (and made even more amazing in that it's all real - all the people, all the danger, all the amazing camera work). But getting through the 3 or so hours of almost slow motion pontificating to get to the race feels gruelling and unsatisfying (at least the first time, it might grow on me the more I watch it).
It feels wrong to slate what is understandably a classic. I have to agree that it is beautifully shot, the story is good and Charlton Heston's acting in it is great. But the pace and span of the film was just not entertaining to me personally.
This review of Ben-Hur (1959) was written by Tim L on 22 Mar 2009.
Ben-Hur has generally received very positive reviews.
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