It’s a gloomy bank holiday Monday. Everything’s closed. You could brave the rain for a kickabout, but that’s not much fun. Why not turn on the TV? You might catch a classic film like “Khartoum” or “The Magnificent Seven.” Or maybe it’ll be “Ben-Hur.”
“Ben-Hur” often gets mixed reviews. Not that it’s a bad film, but many believe it’s overrated. The movie kicks off not with action, but with an image of Michelangelo’s “Creation of Adam.” You see the fingers almost touch, followed by the word OVERTURE on the screen. For over six minutes, the film plays music, but it’s mostly forgettable. There’s much better music out there, even in other epics like “Lawrence of Arabia.”
Once we get past the long intro, “Ben-Hur” embraces its epic nature. Massive sets and thousands of extras create a striking visual. We see the Roman governor of Judea, Valerius Gratus, enter with his second-in-command, Messala. They meet Juda Ben Hur, played by Charlton Heston. Their bond is complicated by politics, leading to a falling out that sends Juda into slavery.
An interesting aspect is the queer undertones in their friendship. Screenwriter Gore Vidal highlighted these themes, while Heston dismissed them after shifting politically to the right. This tension adds depth to their characters and the story.
As the plot picks up, Juda’s life twists dramatically. After becoming a galley slave, he lifts the Roman Consul from drowning during a naval battle. This moment seems pivotal, but it feels more like a plot twist than a natural progression. The film’s action sequences shine, especially the famous chariot race, which is both breathtaking and intense, although it feels a bit drawn out.
The film does raise questions about animal treatment in cinema. The 1925 version gained notoriety for the mistreatment of horses, while this newer version reportedly ensured better care.
While “Ben-Hur” excels in big action scenes, much of it drags. There’s lengthy dialogue and repetitive scenes that could have been trimmed. Heston’s performance is solid as a straightforward hero, but emotional moments often lack depth. When tragedy strikes, the characters don’t show the feelings you’d expect.
In a comparison to historical epics, more recent films have found better ways to blend action and emotional storytelling. Today’s audiences often seek deeper connections with characters. As you watch “Ben-Hur,” you might find yourself yearning for more emotion between its grand moments.
So, the next time you’re stuck indoors, you might think about grabbing a classic. Just remember, some tales resonate more than others. For a truly engaging experience, perhaps it’s time to explore modern films that balance both action and emotion more effectively.
