Ben-Hur

Ben-Hur is a very popular story, so popular it has been made into a movie 3 times. The first time it was released was in 1925 as a silent film. It was remade in 1959 starring Charlton Heston. A remade version is set to come out this August. 

Based on the novel Ben-Hur: A Tale Of Christ by Lew Wallace, the 1959 film is a sweeping epic with massive sets, beautiful costumes, and stunning cinematography. It became the second top grossing film after "Gone With The Wind" and won 11 academy awards. It is a classic, classic movie, with a very good story to tell.  

In AD 26, Judah Ben-Hur (Charlton Heston) is a wealthy prince and merchant who lives in Jerusalem with his mother, sister, and loyal slaves. His childhood friend is a Roman citizen who has come back to Jerusalem as Roman tribune, Messala. Messala believes in the glory of the Roman Empire, while Ben-Hur believes in freedom for the Jewish people and is devoted to his faith. 

During a parade to honor the new governor of Judea, a ceiling tile falls from the roof of Ben Hur's house nearly killing the new governor. Despite knowing it was an accident, Messala condemns Ben-Hur to life on a galley ship and imprisons his mother and sister. Ben-Hur vows to revenge Messala'a treachery. The betrayal and promise of revenge sends Ben-Hur on a journey of discovery. He is eventually adopted by a Roman Consul and begins to live life the Roman way and becomes a champion chariot driver. However, he longs to return to his homeland. 

Upon the return to his homeland, he tries to gain the freedom of his mother and sister only  to learn they contracted leprosy in prison and were expelled from the city. His is lead to believe they are dead at their request. They want him to remember them as they were. When the news of his champion chariot driver becomes known, he is asked by an Arab sheik to drive a chariot in the race being given by the new governor Pontius Pilate. At first he declines, but when he learns Messala is entered in the race, he sees a perfect way to get his revenge. 

Does Ben-Hur get his revenge? Does he find out that his mother and sister aren't really dead? Will he find peace? How will his life be impacted by the life and crucifixion of a rebel known as  Jesus Christ? Curious? Find a copy of the movie at your local library, video rental store, or buy a copy. This is really a great movie with a moving story to tell. It is simply a must see for our holiday viewing! 

Simply enjoying the great story telling to found on a screen! 

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The newest version of Ben-Hur will be released to theaters in August. They just recently released the trailer and you will find it below.