Review of Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014) by Old_Skool_Gamer — 07 Mar 2015

Possibly Ridley Scott's worst movie. The story and performance of the Prince of Egypt animated movie was actually far superior to this. Ridley's rendition of the story wasn't bad but the overall feel and performances of the movie didn't convince me. It's forgiveable that Biblical movies are almost never going to be 100% accurate due to interpretation or style of director; they may want to focus on some other aspect of the story. There were some parts that weren't bad and the performances were very strong. But it didn't feel consistent. From the trailers, the casting already looked odd. But I thought maybe it shouldn't be that bad after I watch it. I was wrong. After finally watching it was horrible and the characters were unconvincing. The acting wasn't that bad but it didn't match the epicness of a movie like this. It was a good twist to use a child playing "a messenger of God". The kid is talented and has a lot of potential for a kid actor but didn't quite feel right in a movie like this.

Christian Bale's performance was better than I expected. Although, I think it would be more powerful if he attached a bit more of Moses' character. Moses actually wasn't a great speaker (he stuttered) and I don't even think he was a general from what I recall. Also, one part that seemed to stand out was his accent didn't seem consistent throughout the movie (especially noticeable in the first dialogue with the "viceroy"). Overall, it didn't have quite an epic feel as I would have expected from Ridley. The effects were good...the cinematography captured some of the essence of that era. But overall it wasn't a keeper. Maybe it's just me, but I'm a big Ridley Scott fan....and just being too harsh. Not his best work anyways.