Ben-Hur (1959)

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

Ben-Hur is a 1959 American epic historical drama film directed by William Wyler and starring Charlton Heston as Judah Ben-Hur. The film is based on Lew Wallace’s 1880 novel Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ. Set in Judea during the 1st century, the story follows the life of Judah Ben-Hur, a wealthy Jewish prince betrayed by his childhood friend Messala, leading to years of hardship and a quest for revenge.

The Story Unfolds

Judah Ben-Hur’s Betrayal

The film begins with the arrival of Messala (Stephen Boyd) in Jerusalem as the new commander of the Roman garrison. Reuniting with his old friend Judah Ben-Hur (Charlton Heston), Messala seeks Judah’s help to suppress Jewish dissent. Judah refuses to betray his people, straining their friendship. During a Roman parade, a loose tile accidentally falls from Judah’s house, nearly killing the Roman governor. Despite it being an accident, Messala seizes the opportunity to arrest Judah, his sister Tirzah, and his mother, sending Judah to the galleys as a slave.

Life as a Slave and the Quest for Revenge

Judah endures brutal conditions as a galley slave, motivated by thoughts of revenge. During a battle at sea, he saves the life of the Roman commander, Quintus Arrius (Jack Hawkins), who later adopts Judah as his son. Judah returns to Judea with newfound wealth and status, determined to find his family and seek vengeance on Messala.

The Climax and Resolution

The Chariot Race

Judah discovers that his mother and sister, previously imprisoned, are now lepers living in a valley outside the city. He confronts Messala, who challenges him to a chariot race. The iconic race in the Circus of Antioch is a thrilling and brutal spectacle, culminating in Judah’s victory and Messala’s crippling injury. On his deathbed, Messala spitefully reveals the location of Judah’s family.

The Healing and Redemption

As Judah seeks a cure for his mother and sister, he encounters Jesus Christ, whose crucifixion profoundly impacts him. Witnessing Jesus’ suffering and compassion leads Judah to forgive his enemies. Miraculously, his mother and sister are healed of their leprosy, symbolizing Judah’s own spiritual redemption and the transformative power of forgiveness.

The Conclusion

A New Beginning

The film concludes with Judah returning to his family, having found peace and a renewed sense of purpose. The overarching message of the film highlights the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the enduring power of faith and love.

Movie Ending

Ben-Hur ends on a hopeful and redemptive note, with Judah Ben-Hur reuniting with his healed family and embracing the teachings of Jesus Christ. The film emphasizes the transformative power of forgiveness and the spiritual journey from vengeance to redemption.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in Ben-Hur.

Type of Movie

Ben-Hur is an epic historical drama that combines elements of adventure, drama, and spirituality, focusing on themes of betrayal, revenge, and redemption.

Cast

• Charlton Heston as Judah Ben-Hur
• Stephen Boyd as Messala
• Jack Hawkins as Quintus Arrius
• Hugh Griffith as Sheik Ilderim
• Martha Scott as Miriam
• Cathy O’Donnell as Tirzah
• Sam Jaffe as Simonides

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Miklós Rózsa, whose music enhances the film’s epic scale and emotional depth. The score is one of the most celebrated in film history, winning an Academy Award.

Filming Locations

Ben-Hur was filmed in various locations, including:

• Cinecittà Studios in Rome, Italy: For most of the interior scenes and set pieces.
• Anzio and the Pontine Marshes, Italy: For the sea battle scenes.
• Arches National Park, Utah, USA: For the desert sequences.

Awards and Nominations

Ben-Hur received numerous prestigious awards, including:

• Academy Awards: Won 11 Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director (William Wyler), Best Actor (Charlton Heston), Best Supporting Actor (Hugh Griffith), and Best Cinematography.
• Golden Globe Awards: Won Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actor (Stephen Boyd).
• BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best Film and Best Foreign Actor (Charlton Heston).

Behind the Scenes Insights

• The chariot race scene, one of the most famous in cinema history, took five weeks to film and required 15,000 extras and 18 chariots.
• Charlton Heston performed many of his own stunts in the film, adding to the authenticity of the action sequences.
• The film’s production was plagued with challenges, including weather delays and the enormous logistical task of coordinating such a large-scale production.

Inspirations and References

Ben-Hur is based on Lew Wallace’s 1880 novel Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ. The film’s themes of forgiveness and redemption are deeply intertwined with the Christian narrative, reflecting Wallace’s original vision.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut of Ben-Hur closely follows the original script. Some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions and DVD releases, providing further context and character development.

Book Adaptations and Differences

The film is adapted from Lew Wallace’s novel. While the film remains largely faithful to the book, certain scenes and characters are dramatized or condensed for cinematic purposes. The portrayal of the chariot race is notably more elaborate in the film.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Judah’s arrest and sentencing to the galleys.
• The sea battle and Judah saving Quintus Arrius.
• The iconic chariot race in the Circus of Antioch.
• Judah’s encounter with Jesus Christ during the crucifixion.
• The healing of Judah’s mother and sister.

Iconic Quotes

• “In his eagerness to save you, your God has also saved the Roman fleet.” – Quintus Arrius
• “You have the spirit to fight back, but the good sense to control it. Your eyes are full of hate, Forty-One. That’s good. Hate keeps a man alive. It gives him strength.” – Quintus Arrius
• “I felt his voice take the sword out of my hand.” – Judah Ben-Hur

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The film includes subtle nods to biblical stories and Roman history, enhancing its depth and cultural context.
• The use of grand, sweeping cinematography and practical effects adds to the epic scale and immersive experience of the film.

Trivia

• The film’s budget was approximately $15 million, making it one of the most expensive films of its time, and it grossed over $146 million worldwide.
• Ben-Hur won 11 Academy Awards, a record it shares with Titanic (1997) and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003).
• The film’s success revitalized the genre of epic historical dramas and set new standards for production design and special effects.

Why Watch?

Ben-Hur offers a powerful and emotionally resonant exploration of themes such as vengeance, redemption, and the transformative power of faith, featuring standout performances, particularly by Charlton Heston, and masterful direction by William Wyler. Its blend of epic action, heartfelt drama, and spiritual depth makes it a must-watch for fans of classic cinema and historical epics.

Director’s Other Movies

William Wyler also directed:

• Roman Holiday (1953)
• The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)
• Funny Girl (1968)
• Wuthering Heights (1939)
• The Heiress (1949)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Spartacus (1960)
• Gladiator (2000)
• Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
• The Ten Commandments (1956)
• Cleopatra (1963)