Best enjoyed as a sample of the state of the art circa 1925, not as a timeless masterpiece.
Ben-Hur - A Tale of the Christ (1926)
Tomatometer
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Reviews Counted:7
Fresh:7
Rotten:0
Average Rating:7.8/10
Synopsis: This renowned silent epic was one of the most expensive features of its day, and easily stands up to the later, technically superior version. Juda Ben-Hur, a Judean Prince forced to become a galley... This renowned silent epic was one of the most expensive features of its day, and easily stands up to the later, technically superior version. Juda Ben-Hur, a Judean Prince forced to become a galley slave, saves the life of a Roman nobleman. He is adopted by the Roman and becomes a respected citizen and a famed chariot racer. Upon his return to Judea, Ben-Hur witnesses the crucifixion of Jesus and is inspired to convert to Christianity. Hold on tight during the sea battle and chariot race. [More]
Starring: Ramon Novarro, May McAvoy, Betty Bronson, Francis X. Bushman
Starring: Ramon Novarro, May McAvoy, Betty Bronson, Francis X. Bushman, Claire McDowell, Carmel Myers, Nigel De Brulier
Director: Fred Niblo
Director: Fred Niblo
Screenwriter: Bess Meredyth, Carey Wilson, June Mathis
Producer: Charles B. Dillangham, Abraham L. Erlanger, Florenz Ziegfeld
Composer: Carl Davis
Reviews for Ben-Hur - A Tale of the Christ
At nearly 2½ hours long, the 1925 version is still an hour shorter than the 1959 version, yet the story is essentially the same, and the scale similarly impressive.
Yes, you'll also find the chariot race in here, and you may even find it as exciting or more exciting than the one Heston enacted.
Novelist Lew Wallace’s 'Tale of Christ' got the silent Hollywood treatment, and how, in M-G-M's elephantine costume epic.
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