Glorious!

Rating: 10/10 (5 February 2012)

Ben Hur is a wonderful movie experience. While the pacing is slow by today's standards, it set the standard for many years for action sequences. The chariot race is still riveting no matter how old the film gets. The sets are gorgeous, the coordination of extras & principals is simply breathtaking. But what sets this movie apart from other Biblical-esque films is its story. Its central character is Judah Ben-Hur, but the story is a foil for the Gospel of Christ. In a way, it makes me feel as if I was there on Calvary witnessing the crucifixion. You could tell the cast and crew put their heart into this production, because it shines in every moment. The script is thought provoking, painting few as evil or good, but showing more that they are all people corrupted by power, revenge, too many wives, wealth, etc. Only after they have encountered the Christ, do they become altruistic and loving. And that is pretty true for people who have been truly transformed by Jesus. This would be an excellent film to show anyone who loves movies, action, drama, or is interested in Christianity.