In Israel Jews yearn for the long promised Messiah to save them from their hated oppressors. Against this background here is the tale of Judah Ben Hur and Messala, two childhood best mates who become bitter enemies - that friendly cart race when young years later replaced by a chariot race to the death.
Born to fail after the surely definitive 1959 film version, Charlton Heston's Ben Hur impossible to match? Judged on its own merits, this 2010 production has much to offer, especially to fans of "The Originals", Joseph Morgan's later triumph. His Ben Hur is of far slighter build. Some may say this makes the various triumphs over formidable challenges rather more satisfying. More controversially some may also claim this of the chariot race itself - it a more local affair, with not much more to come. (The film's version was breathtakingly spectacular, but there was still a lot of film to follow, it dragging somewhat.)
Where this television adaptation disappointingly misses out is in "A Tale of the Christ" aspect. The 1959 film stressed the links between Jesus and Ben Hur - born at the same time, both thought to be The Promised One, their brief encounters very moving indeed, help on the road to Calvary resulting in a miracle as gratitude. This new version sadly misses much by not giving such matters similar emphasis.
Despite such reservations this version was enjoyed - not least because of unexpected names amongst the cast. Chief of these was Joseph Morgan himself - a portrayal gaining stature as challenges threatened. Also ever present was a vulnerability very moving - demonstrated in his final scene with Messala. Time to gloat, or for sad reflection on how life so easily could have been otherwise?
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Customer reviews
Top reviews from other countries
Mr. D. L. Rees
OPPORTUNITIES MISSED, BUT STILL MUCH OF INTEREST
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 2 September 2018Verified Purchase
Carrick
Good TV: Can't rival Charlton Heston
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 1 January 2017Verified Purchase
AnnieCymru1993
FANTASTIC
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 6 September 2013Verified Purchase
sue brock
Five Stars
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 13 February 2017Verified Purchase
Mand
Really interesting take on the Ben Hur story, originally ...
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 6 February 2017Verified Purchase
