I mostly agree. Only segment of this film that really looks outdated to me was naval battle. I saw silent version of Ben Hur from 1925 and it's naval battle was vastly better. But as for the rest of the film, it holds up phenomenal. Settings look like real places, unlike for example Ten Commandments.
@@shawnmiller4781 He also played the lead in Fall of the Roman Empire (1964), which costarred Sophia Loren. They wanted Charlton Heston, but he turned down the offer, because he didn't want to work with Loren a second time after starring with her in El Cid (1961).
Madison, I admire your style and your choice of words when watching these great films. You never use profanity or vulgarities. I applaud you for that! 👍
@willardchi2571 I respect your opinion & right to voice it..Although many others (Including myself) Don't agree with it & the movie establishment/industry/critics didn't & still don't agree with that as well.
@@willardchi2571 "The Ten Commandments" is an epic movie. I believe there are a lot of top tier knowledgeable movie industry professionals that hold TTC in very high regard. Martin Scorsese considers TTC as one of his cinema favorites. In 1978 he stated he had watched TTC around 40 - 50 times.
A perfect reaction Madison. The crucifixion still moves me to tears. It is the thinking person's epic film. An intelligent script, modern acting without over-the-top drama, and a magnificent music score by Miklos Rosa. The remake a few years back was not in the same league.
Only two movies made my U.S. Marine father shed a tear to my memory. This one, when Juda sees his mother and sister at the top of the staircase, and Boys Town (1938) when little Pee Wee gets hit by the car. I, on the other hand, wear my heart on my sleeve.
At one point, Chuck Heston confided to the stunt coordinator, Yakima Canutt, that he wasn't fully confident in driving the chariot in the race. Cannutt assured Heston that all he had to do was drive the chariot and he would guarantee he would win the race.
Madison, another epic movie in the same vein as Ben-Hur, that is also entirely appropriate for Easter time, is "The 10 Commandments" from 1956, in which Charlton Heston plays Moses. I believe all of your subscribers would enjoy watching your reaction to this classic movie as well.
I cry a river of tears each time. I've seen this film many times since I was a child raised Baptist 6 decades ago. And though today I am not religious, I am deeply spiritual yet I still deeply appreciate the beauty symbolized by this myth of universal Love & hope. This version of Ben-Hur will always be one of the greatest epics ever made. Glad you enjoyed this masterpiece filled with incredible performances, direction and spectacular cinematography!
3 weeks until Good Friday. I saw this movie in 1959, I was 7 years old and it made a great impression on me. I am glad that you saw it and reviewed it.
My favorite movie from the time I saw it at age 10 in our local theater, and it has never disappointed me ever since. I watch it every Easter, and occasionally in between... it brings me to tears each time, but even more so seeing your reaction, Madison. Thank you so much! Make it a tradition for yourself, too, Okay?
National Velvet (1944) also has a thrilling horse race. And also has an Oscar winning, best supporting performance form Ann Revere as Elizabeth Taylors wise mother.
Thank you for your heartfelt reaction. I remember the first time I saw this film and its portrayal of Masala’s evil and the ultimate victory of the Gospel. I was in awe as well. Have a wonderful Easter celebration.
Thank you for reacting to this movie. It's one of my all-time favorites, and the giving-water callback gives me chills and moves me to tears every time.
You know that feeling after GREAT movie and lights come on and you walk out stunned to your car. I think Ben Hur best ever that way. One even may avoid eye contact as emotion so private. I saw at age 6
The greatest film ever made intertwines seamlessly with the greatest story ever told. The raw power and emotion driving this epic is unmatched. _Ben-Hur_ is the greatest of all the old Hollywood epics.
Greatest epic ever and profoundly moving even in a reaction edit. I saw it on a giant drive-in theater screen in 1960, which made the effect of the chariot race awesome beyond words. I think you may be the best reactor, Madison, at connecting with movies on such a deep emotional level. It’s wonderful!
Another wonderful reaction to a true classic of the cinema. In addition to one of the greatest action sequences ever filmed, you've got a remarkably strong principal and supporting cast, brilliant adaptation and screenplay, state-of-the-art set design for the time, you name it -11 Oscars I believe, a new record at that time. It was a joy to watch you constantly on the edge of your seat. It's such a cracking yarn regardless of one's religious affiliation or lack thereof. First-rate, Madison.
Took 9 months for them to make this movie. Charlton Heston spent a couple of months learning to drive a chariot for realism. An epic film on every level.
Hugh Griffith, the sheikh was a great actor. One of his best roles was in Tom Jones, which won best picture and made Albert Finney a star. Highly highly recommend.
Reminder that Frank Thring - who plays Pilate is an Aussie actor He was in "El Cid" also wth Heston, and played Herod Antipas in "King of Kings" and again playing Herod in "Salome".
Madison, you may not remember this but you've seen Charlton Heston in Tombstone. He was the old man who took in Doc Holiday when he collapsed as the posse was taking their revenge/comeuppance against the Cowboys 👍👍
No, first equaled in 1998 by Titanic, and then equaled again in 2004 by LOTR: The Return of the King. ROTK was the a clean sweep where Ben-Hur and Titanic were nominated for 12 and 14 Oscars respectively. So these 3 movies tie for most wins at 11.
As stated in the other comment, it has been tied twice. Also, let's not forget that unlike "Titanic" and "Return of the King", "Ben-Hur" won an Oscar in the Best Acting category. If you were to score the Oscars weighted by the importance of the award, "Ben-Hur" is still unmatched.
Films back in those days inspired, other classics you should react to, Madison: "The Robe", "The Ten Commandments", "Spartacus". I'm sure that you'll truly appreciate them.
All of these would be great. I’d also love to see a reaction to the original Robin Hood as well as Ivanhoe with Elizabeth Taylor (1952). Both have good action sequences. Not as epic as this one but still lots of fun.
this version is so so so much more memorable than the remake.. so glad you are watching this.. love sharing your reaction... they never should have tried doing a remake... it would be like trying to remake Gone with the Wind.. the editing of some of the clips like just the side shot of the cross after the lightening
I saw an episode of the Johnny Carson show way back in the day, and Charlton spoke of flying way too high in the chariot race stunt resulting in a couple of broken ribs. Props to all who starred and worked on this epic masterpiece.
Ben Hur was the most successful novel of the 19th century. Its author Lew Wallace was a general in the Union Army, a diplomat and governor of the New Mexico territory during the Lincoln County Wars and he dealt with Billy the Kid. He wrote other novels and poetry. He is one of the most accomplished men in US history.
The thing about Wallace is that his contribution to Shiloh was late in coming (he took the wrong fork in the road), and so many men who might have otherwise survived the battle lost their lives instead. It was the bloodiest battle of the war thus far and someone had to be thrown under the ox-cart, and it unfairly ended up being Wallace. His account of Judah's betrayal by a friend who knew better but stood to gain from duplicity grew in part out of that injustice. 😮 😠
Great reaction, Madison. Your next Bible epic should be "The Ten Commandments." More incredible sets, amazing acting, sweeping score and even some pretty horses.
"Ben-Hur" is a must-watch epic that should be experienced by everyone. *FUN FACT:* There were several sets still standing from a previous epic "Quo Vadis" (1951) that were refurbished and used for Ben-Hur. And yes, I'm one of the viewers who said "bless you" when you sneezed. I thought maybe you were allergic to the on-screen horses 😜.
I think some of the sets from an early movie about the Ancient world, possibly the 1925 "Ben Hur," were discovered a few years ago burited under many feet of sand. I think the site was being excavated as if it were an archaeological dig.
The movie won 11 Oscars. 365 speaking roles and 50,000 extras were used for the film. Over a million props and 40,000 tons of Mediterranean sand. For the filming, a replica of ancient Jerusalem was built on the Cinecitta Filmstudios site, covering almost one square kilometer. The largest film set was the arena, which was also the largest set ever built for a Hollywood film.
Now that you've done Ben-Hur, Passover is coming, so maybe your could do The Ten Commandments, also starring Charlton Heston as Moses. Lots of other big names and humongous scenes and great acting too. Thank you so much for doing this one. I loved your reactions. Thank you so much, Madison. You do such a good job.
I never miss watching selected parts of this film. Every year, I will be watching the crucifixion scene on the eve of Good Friday, and I will be watching the opening nativity scene on the eve of Christmas Day. And every now and then especially when the mood strikes, I will be watching the chariot racing scene to appreciate the arr and craft of filmmaking
Iconic Director Frank Capra ("It's A Wonderful Life",, Etc.) Also directs this Absolute MUST SEE uplifting Classic,, "Pocketful Of Miracles" (1961) Includes a HUGE cast of acting icons.
In Raiders of the Lost Ark the scene where Indiana goes under the truck was a nod by stuntman Terry Leonard to the stuntman Yakima Canutt when Yakima went under the chariot in this movie.
Watched this more times than I can count. 61 years old and still think this is the greatest movie of all time. Charlton Heston is incredible in everything he did but this is probably his greatest performance. I still get goosebumps every time I see the scene when the Roman centurion has to avert his gaze when he confronted Jesus.
The actor's name is unknown to me but it's true he did a wonderful job sliding down the scale from anger, to confusion, intimidation, and finally shame. I have always wondered what expression was on Jesus's face. 🤔 🤨
The novel from which this is based was written by Civil War General Lew Wallace, and was America's number one selling novel each year from 1880 until 1936, when Margaret Mitchell's Gone With The Wind outsold it. Watching this film is an annual event - THE TEN COMMANDMENTS (Cecil B. DeMille's 1956 classic) should be your very next film reaction. The making of it was even more epic.
Charlton Heston has always been my favourite actor. He's in so many films I love like "55 Days at Peking", "Khartoum", "Planet of the Apes", "Soylent Green", "The Omega Man", "El Cid", "Ben-Hur", and "The 10 Commandments" I've not been concerned with his politics -as I'm an Aussie so American politics doesn't affect me
Hi Madison, glad you enjoyed this amazing historical drama, I`m always happy to see people from younger generations discovering & enjoying these classics. I did the same myself around 15 yrs after it was released, with each classic I discovered I looked for more. Though, at that time, I had to look out for them on Tv mainly & occasionally with re-showing at our local cinemas. Charlton was a wonderful Actor & I can honestly say, I can`t think of any of his films I did not like. Among other`s were the historical dramas, The Ten Commandments 1956, (Ben-Hur 1959), El Cid 1961 & 55 Days At Peking 1963. :)
Great PART 2 reaction! Have you seen Charlton Heston in 'THE TEN COMMANDMENTS' already? If not, you will enjoy that one equally. My favorite actor is Gregory Peck ( from ROMAN HOLIDAY ). He and Charlton Heston star together in the amazing movie 'BIG COUNTRY ' with many other classic stars. It's one of my personal favorite movies and I would highly recommend it for you to see. Crossing my fingers lol. Thanks and keep smiling! 👍🙂
I had been watching this in its pan and scan version on television before seeing it on a letterboxed VHS and noticed the wide tire marks on the far left of the chariot race made by the camera vehicle. The cropped version had left out so much of the film. This would have been great to see in the cinema.
Gina lollobrigida, a great physical beauty in her day. A great beautiful person in her old age, she sold jewellery and donated 5 million dollars to charity. Passed away last year at the age of 95. A epic film,which I’ve lost count how many times I’ve seen it.
The 50s and 60s were quite the time for epic movies. You should try watching "Spartacus" with Kirk Douglass. It also has music by Alex North whom I think you will appreciate.
Racing fans were fanatical about their allegiances to their favorite teams in the Eastern Roman Empire, Byzantium. I remember that the teams were named after various colors. So heated were the feelings about the outcome of one of the races, that a riot ensued as fans of the two leading teams began fighting in the arena, with the fight spilling out through the streets of Constantinople and eventually led to the storming of the imperial palace, threatening to overturn the government itself. Many people died in the riots.
Charlton Heston (Judah) and Stephen Boyd (Masala) had to learn to drive the chariots because that’s really them driving when you see their faces. Stunt doubles were only used for more dangerous shots where you can’t see their faces. Stuntman Joe Canutt, who doubled for Heston/Judah, drove too fast when he went over the crashed chariot and accidentally flew over the front. He was fine, and they kept the unplanned moment. Joe‘s dad, stunt legend Yakima Canutt, planned the entire race and assured Heston he would win. Don’t worry.
Still the best motion picture ever made...the message is powerful and life changing. I know many that have been inspired by this film and as a result, began searching for spiritual truth and meaning.
The Actor that played Tribune Messala was Stephen Boyd, played many epic movies and yes he was a great actor in his own right,Born in Ireland 1931 he died way too young at age 45 in 1977. another movie he acted in as a Roman general which you could also react to since it also has other great actors like Alec Guinness, Sophia Loren and Christopher Plummer, the movie is "the Fall of the Roman Empire " 1964.
If I'm not mistaken , the line " Blessed Are The Peace Makers " is also in RDR2 by Mikah. And the actor who plays the part of " Ben Hur " was also in the origional : Planet Of The Apes.
I aaw this in a plush first run cinema. I was 8 yrs old. I knew even then it was the best and would always be the best. I still believe that and the film has a message for everybody believer nonbeliever man woman or child. People forget that ben hur was himslf healed of the hate within his heart a powerful concept.
To be honest I am waiting for somebody to do review of “Last Man in Earth” with Vincent Pice, “The Omega Man” with Heston and “I am Legend” with Will Smith since all three are movies based on the same book
This movie is so epic and is wonderfully shot. Great story with a super ending. I know if you liked this one you would also love "The Ten Commandments". It is another epic and well shot movie.
When you mentioned the remake, remember that the movie you watched is a remake itself. Original was released in the 1920s and they pulled off a hell of a chariot race even back then. And I know some extras were killed filming the wild sea battle of that earlier version.
A pity it is, that the Academy instituted its award ceremony in the year following the silent *Ben-Hur.* Had the Oscar come into being a couple of years earlier, who could doubt but that almost certainly it would have won for Best Picture? (And *The Big Parade* the year before that, and *The Thief of Bagdad* the year before _that,_ and...) 😎
This movie and the Ten Commandments. Some of the best movie viewing I've seen in my whole life. I'd also put films like the original "The Fly" with Vincent Price up there as well.
If you are interested in other films by the great director William Wyler, I highly recommend The Big Country, which came out a year before Ben Hur. Charlton Heston plays a prominent supporting role here and was then given the lead role in Ben Hur due to his convincing performance. One of the best Westerns of all time.
Thank you for your excellent and heartfelt reaction .A great movie but it’s sad you can not duplicate the experience in the movie theatre. I remember that movies like this were events This only shown in the premiere movie house in a city There would be 2 shows daily and yes, there was an intermission. Seating was called , at least in Dallas, road show ticket sales. There was not open seating but tickets for assigned seats that a uniformed usher would take you to find The movie was shown a big screen and for a boy it was enormous. My memory is how some of the sets looked massive, the sea battle was awesome, and the sound and look of the Chariot Race was never duplicated or surpassed in any movie before or since. Lastly , Charlton Heston was the perfect star for epics. I was too young for his turn in The Greatest Show on Earth but it dazzled a young Steven Spielberg He starred as Moses in The Ten Commandments (?biggest hit on the 1950’s) and the epic Western The Big Country the year before Ben-Hur Late in Charlton Hestons life he was on the outs in Hollywood due to his role being an outspoken advocate for the National Rifle Association But he left a legacy of big hit movies and true superstar status until the late 1970’s. Some other of his big big hit movies were El Cid, Planet of the Apes, Earthquake, and Midway Keep us the great work
Ben Hur was the first movie to win the most Oscars ever, and it wasn't until Titanic that record was broken. The chariot race is one of the greatest action sequences ever filmed IMO. And yet after this magnificent race, we see Messala defeated - he still says what really matters in the movie: "The race still goes on" - that the real heart of the race was not the power of Rome, but the power of Spirituality and Love. Great story with so many meaningful moments - such as the entire beginning of Judah's journey hinges on an accidental loose tile on a roof falling. But is life itself an accident? What matters more in life? Love or the Power of the Sword?
I have a copy of the book from the 1800s, I dont think it was a first printing but the actual title of the book is " Ben-Hur: A Tale of Christ." Lew Wallace was a covil war officer and the books whole point was placing us in the time of Jesus and showing us the effect He had on the people. Its a Wonderful Life and Ben Hur are my top 2 favorite movies. Its just sad, Hollywood made this film and it really was unifying as our people all shared this story of Christ, and yet today we are so divided. I wish it were possible to bring such an experience to younger people.
65 years old and there is nothing dated or fake looking about this movie. An amazing achievement in cinema.
True. A masterpiece. Just the chariot race alone.
65 years of age??
You are OLD AS well as ancient!!!❤❤LOL
I AM 65 ALSO
I mostly agree. Only segment of this film that really looks outdated to me was naval battle. I saw silent version of Ben Hur from 1925 and it's naval battle was vastly better. But as for the rest of the film, it holds up phenomenal. Settings look like real places, unlike for example Ten Commandments.
Ben Hur is one of the best movies ever made.
It probably is the best. Maybe the best musical score as well.
"Ben-Hur", very worthy of all 11 Academy Awards it won.
Stephen Boyd played Masala. Sadly, he died far too young in 1977 from a heart attack, just one month from his 46th birthday.
One of three films I know him from the others being “Fantastic Voyage” and “The Man who Never Was”
@@shawnmiller4781 He also played the lead in Fall of the Roman Empire (1964), which costarred Sophia Loren. They wanted Charlton Heston, but he turned down the offer, because he didn't want to work with Loren a second time after starring with her in El Cid (1961).
Very talented actor.
@@aaaht3810 It's a real shame that Boyd was not nominated for an acting award for his portrayal of Messala. He MADE the role a realty, to be sure.
When you have horses at full gallop, you don't need music. It's a perfect symphony.
My fav movie all time.
Seen it probably 50 times.
I still cry.
Every time.
I cry, as well.
Same
Madison, I admire your style and your choice of words when watching these great films.
You never use profanity or vulgarities. I applaud you for that! 👍
Wish she'd wipe the grease off her face, it's bad look.
@@ckobo84….You’re an idiot.
It’s a real relief!
Another MUST SEE Classic movie starring Charlton Heston,, "The Ten Commandments"
(1956) An absolutely INCREDIBLE Cast,, Costumes,, Locations,, Etc.
"The Ten Commandments" is cheesy and doesn't compare to "Ben Hur."
@@willardchi2571In no way is it "cheesy".
@willardchi2571 I respect your opinion & right to voice it..Although many others (Including myself) Don't agree with it & the movie establishment/industry/critics didn't & still don't agree with that as well.
@Akihito007 100% Agreed & Thanks for sharing your veiw on it.
@@willardchi2571 "The Ten Commandments" is an epic movie. I believe there are a lot of top tier knowledgeable movie industry professionals that hold TTC in very high regard.
Martin Scorsese considers TTC as one of his cinema favorites. In 1978 he stated he had watched TTC around 40 - 50 times.
A perfect reaction Madison. The crucifixion still moves me to tears. It is the thinking person's epic film. An intelligent script, modern acting without over-the-top drama, and a magnificent music score by Miklos Rosa. The remake a few years back was not in the same league.
Always makes me tear up. Beautiful film ❤️🔥🙏🙏✝️
Only two movies made my U.S. Marine father shed a tear to my memory.
This one, when Juda sees his mother and sister at the top of the staircase, and Boys Town (1938) when little Pee Wee gets hit by the car.
I, on the other hand, wear my heart on my sleeve.
It's very satisfying to revisit a movie like this through someone else's eyes. I'm so glad you enjoyed it so much.
I sure hope you watch The Ten Commandments soon
At one point, Chuck Heston confided to the stunt coordinator, Yakima Canutt, that he wasn't fully confident in driving the chariot in the race. Cannutt assured Heston that all he had to do was drive the chariot and he would guarantee he would win the race.
Madison, another epic movie in the same vein as Ben-Hur, that is also entirely appropriate for Easter time, is "The 10 Commandments" from 1956, in which Charlton Heston plays Moses. I believe all of your subscribers would enjoy watching your reaction to this classic movie as well.
I cry a river of tears each time. I've seen this film many times since I was a child raised Baptist 6 decades ago. And though today I am not religious, I am deeply spiritual yet I still deeply appreciate the beauty symbolized by this myth of universal Love & hope. This version of Ben-Hur will always be one of the greatest epics ever made. Glad you enjoyed this masterpiece filled with incredible performances, direction and spectacular cinematography!
3 weeks until Good Friday. I saw this movie in 1959, I was 7 years old and it made a great impression on me. I am glad that you saw it and reviewed it.
Over 200 camels and 2,500 horses were used in the shooting of the film, with some 10,000 extras and those are physical sets.
My favorite movie from the time I saw it at age 10 in our local theater, and it has never disappointed me ever since. I watch it every Easter, and occasionally in between... it brings me to tears each time, but even more so seeing your reaction, Madison. Thank you so much! Make it a tradition for yourself, too, Okay?
National Velvet (1944) also has a thrilling horse race. And also has an Oscar winning, best supporting performance form Ann Revere as Elizabeth Taylors wise mother.
I love that film and have a copy. Also international VELVET done in 1977 is a quite fitting sequel.
The chariot race was filmed without CGI, it’s all authentic, and it took 8 weeks to film. I really enjoy your channel🤗
When you sneezed, I said, "Bless you."😀
Same here 😂
Honey you and this movie made an old man cry but I'm not mad. I've always loved this. Written by a civil war general.
This is the greatest live action sequence ever shot.
1 of the greatest movies ever made❤
Thank you for your heartfelt reaction. I remember the first time I saw this film and its portrayal of Masala’s evil and the ultimate victory of the Gospel. I was in awe as well. Have a wonderful Easter celebration.
Thank you for reacting to this movie. It's one of my all-time favorites, and the giving-water callback gives me chills and moves me to tears every time.
You know that feeling after GREAT movie and lights come on and you walk out stunned to your car. I think Ben Hur best ever that way. One even may avoid eye contact as emotion so private. I saw at age 6
Ben-Hur my favorite movie! Loved your reaction. The acting, the staging, a true epic! Thank you again!
Great classic movie. They don't make them like this any more. Thanks for reacting to it.
The greatest film ever made intertwines seamlessly with the greatest story ever told. The raw power and emotion driving this epic is unmatched. _Ben-Hur_ is the greatest of all the old Hollywood epics.
Greatest epic ever and profoundly moving even in a reaction edit. I saw it on a giant drive-in theater screen in 1960, which made the effect of the chariot race awesome beyond words. I think you may be the best reactor, Madison, at connecting with movies on such a deep emotional level. It’s wonderful!
Another wonderful reaction to a true classic of the cinema. In addition to one of the greatest action sequences ever filmed, you've got a remarkably strong principal and supporting cast, brilliant adaptation and screenplay, state-of-the-art set design for the time, you name it -11 Oscars I believe, a new record at that time. It was a joy to watch you constantly on the edge of your seat. It's such a cracking yarn regardless of one's religious affiliation or lack thereof. First-rate, Madison.
Took 9 months for them to make this movie. Charlton Heston spent a couple of months learning to drive a chariot for realism. An epic film on every level.
Hugh Griffith, the sheikh was a great actor. One of his best roles was in Tom Jones, which won best picture and made Albert Finney a star. Highly highly recommend.
Heston in El Cid was good, too, although nothing tops Ben Hur.
El Cid would be a great one to watch
Reminder that Frank Thring - who plays Pilate is an Aussie actor
He was in "El Cid" also wth Heston, and played Herod Antipas in "King of Kings" and again playing Herod in "Salome".
Madison, you may not remember this but you've seen Charlton Heston in Tombstone. He was the old man who took in Doc Holiday when he collapsed as the posse was taking their revenge/comeuppance against the Cowboys 👍👍
I think that was his last cinematic foray before he passed. Unless you count Bowling for Columbine (which I don't).
This movie held the record for most academy awards won for decades. It was finally broken in 2004 by Return of the King.
No, first equaled in 1998 by Titanic, and then equaled again in 2004 by LOTR: The Return of the King. ROTK was the a clean sweep where Ben-Hur and Titanic were nominated for 12 and 14 Oscars respectively. So these 3 movies tie for most wins at 11.
As stated in the other comment, it has been tied twice. Also, let's not forget that unlike "Titanic" and "Return of the King", "Ben-Hur" won an Oscar in the Best Acting category. If you were to score the Oscars weighted by the importance of the award, "Ben-Hur" is still unmatched.
That is correct and besides, 11 oscars out of 12 wins over 11 out of 14.
Films back in those days inspired, other classics you should react to, Madison:
"The Robe",
"The Ten Commandments",
"Spartacus".
I'm sure that you'll truly appreciate them.
Hear hear! Yes, this is a good list. I would probably add Quo Vadis
Spatracus is the most Intelligent Epic of the lot!
@@Straun30 Another good choice.
@@jamesalexander5623 I think it is too.
All of these would be great. I’d also love to see a reaction to the original Robin Hood as well as Ivanhoe with Elizabeth Taylor (1952). Both have good action sequences. Not as epic as this one but still lots of fun.
this version is so so so much more memorable than the remake.. so glad you are watching this.. love sharing your reaction... they never should have tried doing a remake... it would be like trying to remake Gone with the Wind.. the editing of some of the clips like just the side shot of the cross after the lightening
I saw an episode of the Johnny Carson show way back in the day, and Charlton spoke of flying way too high in the chariot race stunt resulting in a couple of broken ribs.
Props to all who starred and worked on this epic masterpiece.
Interesting. 👍 I did not know of this.
Ben Hur was the most successful novel of the 19th century. Its author Lew Wallace was a general in the Union Army, a diplomat and governor of the New Mexico territory during the Lincoln County Wars and he dealt with Billy the Kid. He wrote other novels and poetry. He is one of the most accomplished men in US history.
Wallace played a key role in the Battle of Shiloh and was promoted to major general at the age of 34. And yea, he lived a pretty amazing life.
The thing about Wallace is that his contribution to Shiloh was late in coming (he took the wrong fork in the road), and so many men who might have otherwise survived the battle lost their lives instead. It was the bloodiest battle of the war thus far and someone had to be thrown under the ox-cart, and it unfairly ended up being Wallace. His account of Judah's betrayal by a friend who knew better but stood to gain from duplicity grew in part out of that injustice. 😮 😠
Ben Hur. A marvellous movie. Actors and acting was beyond words including the scenes . really fantastic and realistic. Dbn South Africa
Great reaction, Madison. Your next Bible epic should be "The Ten Commandments." More incredible sets, amazing acting, sweeping score and even some pretty horses.
Barabbas (1961) is my favorite Easter week/ Easter movie.
Mine as well. I feel most men can relate to this interpretation of Barabbas....... 💯
Indeed. Has the best non-special, special effect ever....
"Ben-Hur" is a must-watch epic that should be experienced by everyone. *FUN FACT:* There were several sets still standing from a previous epic "Quo Vadis" (1951) that were refurbished and used for Ben-Hur.
And yes, I'm one of the viewers who said "bless you" when you sneezed. I thought maybe you were allergic to the on-screen horses 😜.
I think some of the sets from an early movie about the Ancient world, possibly the 1925 "Ben Hur," were discovered a few years ago burited under many feet of sand. I think the site was being excavated as if it were an archaeological dig.
The movie won 11 Oscars. 365 speaking roles and 50,000 extras were used for the film. Over a million props and 40,000 tons of Mediterranean sand. For the filming, a replica of ancient Jerusalem was built on the Cinecitta Filmstudios site, covering almost one square kilometer. The largest film set was the arena, which was also the largest set ever built for a Hollywood film.
Now that you've done Ben-Hur, Passover is coming, so maybe your could do The Ten Commandments, also starring Charlton Heston as Moses. Lots of other big names and humongous scenes and great acting too. Thank you so much for doing this one. I loved your reactions. Thank you so much, Madison. You do such a good job.
Thank you for reacting to this movie! I haven’t seen it since I was very young, but remembered a lot of it. Excellent movie!
For real the stuntman actually died filming the chariot race when his chariot broke and he was run over.
I never miss watching selected parts of this film. Every year, I will be watching the crucifixion scene on the eve of Good Friday, and I will be watching the opening nativity scene on the eve of Christmas Day. And every now and then especially when the mood strikes, I will be watching the chariot racing scene to appreciate the arr and craft of filmmaking
It’s a travesty that Stephen Boyd (Messela)spell? Was not nominated for an Oscar.
Iconic Director Frank Capra ("It's A Wonderful Life",, Etc.) Also directs this Absolute MUST SEE uplifting Classic,, "Pocketful Of Miracles"
(1961) Includes a HUGE cast of acting icons.
Agreed. Pocket Full of Miracles is a great one.
@DinoNardelli 100% Agreed & Anyone that I have ever suggested the movie to,, Loved it.
In Raiders of the Lost Ark the scene where Indiana goes under the truck was a nod by stuntman Terry Leonard to the stuntman Yakima Canutt when Yakima went under the chariot in this movie.
Watched this more times than I can count. 61 years old and still think this is the greatest movie of all time. Charlton Heston is incredible in everything he did but this is probably his greatest performance. I still get goosebumps every time I see the scene when the Roman centurion has to avert his gaze when he confronted Jesus.
The actor's name is unknown to me but it's true he did a wonderful job sliding down the scale from anger, to confusion, intimidation, and finally shame. I have always wondered what expression was on Jesus's face. 🤔 🤨
They picked the right actor to lead this movie extravaganza. I couldn't imagine the pressure and the physical requirements
Charlton Heston's greatest role for sure. He won an Oscar for it.
The novel from which this is based was written by Civil War General Lew Wallace, and was America's number one selling novel each year from 1880 until 1936, when Margaret Mitchell's Gone With The Wind outsold it. Watching this film is an annual event - THE TEN COMMANDMENTS (Cecil B. DeMille's 1956 classic) should be your very next film reaction. The making of it was even more epic.
When I was a kid in the '70s, my parents had the Ben Hur soundtrack. I listened to it a lot.
Lew Wallace was one of those people who studied the Bible to find out how to disprove it, but instead, believed and was saved.
Charlton Heston has always been my favourite actor.
He's in so many films I love like "55 Days at Peking", "Khartoum", "Planet of the Apes", "Soylent Green", "The Omega Man", "El Cid", "Ben-Hur", and "The 10 Commandments"
I've not been concerned with his politics -as I'm an Aussie so American politics doesn't affect me
"War Lord" was another memorable Heston movie, although the ending was lacking.
Stephen Boyd (Masala) played a great bad guy. In the movie "Fantastic Voyage" he played a great good guy. What a great Actor!
He isn’t a bad spy on “The Man Who Never Was” either
Charlton Heston was perfect. You can see the hate in his eyes when Esther compares him with Messala. What an actor
Hi Madison, glad you enjoyed this amazing historical drama, I`m always happy to see people from younger generations discovering & enjoying these classics. I did the same myself around 15 yrs after it was released, with each classic I discovered I looked for more. Though, at that time, I had to look out for them on Tv mainly & occasionally with re-showing at our local cinemas.
Charlton was a wonderful Actor & I can honestly say, I can`t think of any of his films I did not like. Among other`s were the historical dramas, The Ten Commandments 1956, (Ben-Hur 1959), El Cid 1961 & 55 Days At Peking 1963. :)
Great PART 2 reaction! Have you seen Charlton Heston in 'THE TEN COMMANDMENTS' already? If not, you will enjoy that one equally.
My favorite actor is Gregory Peck ( from ROMAN HOLIDAY ). He and Charlton Heston star together in the amazing movie 'BIG COUNTRY ' with many other classic stars. It's one of my personal favorite movies and I would highly recommend it for you to see.
Crossing my fingers lol. Thanks and keep smiling! 👍🙂
Amazing epic movie. I watch it every Easter. Usually shown on TV at this time of year.
If I hadn't mentioned this before, Charleton Heston made an appearance in the 1990s movie, "Tombstone."
I had been watching this in its pan and scan version on television before seeing it on a letterboxed VHS and noticed the wide tire marks on the far left of the chariot race made by the camera vehicle. The cropped version had left out so much of the film. This would have been great to see in the cinema.
I think Stephen Boyd did such a good job portraying Messala. Underrated actor IMO.
Gina lollobrigida, a great physical beauty in her day. A great beautiful person in her old age, she sold jewellery and donated 5 million dollars to charity. Passed away last year at the age of 95. A epic film,which I’ve lost count how many times I’ve seen it.
One of the stuntmen in this movie actually died performing a chariot race shot. It was left in the film as a tribute to the stunt man.
That is a myth. During the filming of the original "Ben Hur" film (1925), a stuntman died.
No one died during the making of 1959 Ben Hur.
The 50s and 60s were quite the time for epic movies. You should try watching "Spartacus" with Kirk Douglass. It also has music by Alex North whom I think you will appreciate.
OMG YES PLEASE SPARTACUS
Racing fans were fanatical about their allegiances to their favorite teams in the Eastern Roman Empire, Byzantium. I remember that the teams were named after various colors. So heated were the feelings about the outcome of one of the races, that a riot ensued as fans of the two leading teams began fighting in the arena, with the fight spilling out through the streets of Constantinople and eventually led to the storming of the imperial palace, threatening to overturn the government itself. Many people died in the riots.
This, and the original Star Wars trilogy I have had to have in every new format, from all the way back to VHS.
Another epic movie you might enjoy is Beckett,it stars Peter otoole and Richard Burton, Ben hur won the most Oscar award of any movie
Charlton Heston (Judah) and Stephen Boyd (Masala) had to learn to drive the chariots because that’s really them driving when you see their faces. Stunt doubles were only used for more dangerous shots where you can’t see their faces. Stuntman Joe Canutt, who doubled for Heston/Judah, drove too fast when he went over the crashed chariot and accidentally flew over the front. He was fine, and they kept the unplanned moment. Joe‘s dad, stunt legend Yakima Canutt, planned the entire race and assured Heston he would win. Don’t worry.
Nice to watch the film with you Madison. As if I have a friend sitting next to me watching the movie
Still the best motion picture ever made...the message is powerful and life changing. I know many that have been inspired by this film and as a result, began searching for spiritual truth and meaning.
Masterpiece ever. 6:41 Chariot Scene epic ever until now. The best scene ever made. Great
The Actor that played Tribune Messala was Stephen Boyd, played many epic movies and yes he was a great actor in his own right,Born in Ireland 1931 he died way too young at age 45 in 1977. another movie he acted in as a Roman general which you could also react to since it also has other great actors like Alec Guinness, Sophia Loren and Christopher Plummer, the movie is "the Fall of the Roman Empire " 1964.
If I'm not mistaken , the line " Blessed Are The Peace Makers " is also in RDR2 by Mikah. And the actor who plays the part of " Ben Hur " was also in the origional : Planet Of The Apes.
Thank you Madison! That was great!
I aaw this in a plush first run cinema. I was 8 yrs old. I knew even then it was the best and would always be the best. I still believe that and the film has a message for everybody believer nonbeliever man woman or child. People forget that ben hur was himslf healed of the hate within his heart a powerful concept.
congrats on your well deserved 25k subs
The Valley of the Lepers is an old stone quarry.
Omega Man another Charlton Heston classic!
Soylent Green
To be honest I am waiting for somebody to do review of “Last Man in Earth” with Vincent Pice, “The Omega Man” with Heston and “I am Legend” with Will Smith since all three are movies based on the same book
Thank you for sharing this great story
This movie is so epic and is wonderfully shot. Great story with a super ending. I know if you liked this one you would also love "The Ten Commandments". It is another epic and well shot movie.
When you mentioned the remake, remember that the movie you watched is a remake itself. Original was released in the 1920s and they pulled off a hell of a chariot race even back then. And I know some extras were killed filming the wild sea battle of that earlier version.
A pity it is, that the Academy instituted its award ceremony in the year following the silent *Ben-Hur.* Had the Oscar come into being a couple of years earlier, who could doubt but that almost certainly it would have won for Best Picture? (And *The Big Parade* the year before that, and *The Thief of Bagdad* the year before _that,_ and...) 😎
This movie and the Ten Commandments. Some of the best movie viewing I've seen in my whole life.
I'd also put films like the original "The Fly" with Vincent Price up there as well.
My favorite movie of all! Praise God for it!
This the kind of stuff Hollywood used to make. Now all we get is superhero reboots.
I can't believe someone actually watched Ben hur
If you are interested in other films by the great director William Wyler, I highly recommend The Big Country, which came out a year before Ben Hur.
Charlton Heston plays a prominent supporting role here and was then given the lead role in Ben Hur due to his convincing performance. One of the best Westerns of all time.
OMG YES THE BIG COUNTRY!!!!!
fantastic movie!...one of my faves
Great reaction - loved it!!
Thank you for your excellent and heartfelt reaction .A great movie but it’s sad you can not duplicate the experience in the movie theatre. I remember that movies like this were events This only shown in the premiere movie house in a city There would be 2 shows daily and yes, there was an intermission. Seating was called , at least in Dallas, road show ticket sales. There was not open seating but tickets for assigned seats that a uniformed usher would take you to find The movie was shown a big screen and for a boy it was enormous. My memory is how some of the sets looked massive, the sea battle was awesome, and the sound and look of the Chariot Race was never duplicated or surpassed in any movie before or since.
Lastly , Charlton Heston was the perfect star for epics. I was too young for his turn in The Greatest Show on Earth but it dazzled a young Steven Spielberg He starred as Moses in The Ten Commandments (?biggest hit on the 1950’s) and the epic Western The Big Country the year before Ben-Hur Late in Charlton Hestons life he was on the outs in Hollywood due to his role being an outspoken advocate for the National Rifle Association But he left a legacy of big hit movies and true superstar status until the late 1970’s. Some other of his big big hit movies were El Cid, Planet of the Apes, Earthquake, and Midway Keep us the great work
Ben Hur was the first movie to win the most Oscars ever, and it wasn't until Titanic that record was broken. The chariot race is one of the greatest action sequences ever filmed IMO. And yet after this magnificent race, we see Messala defeated - he still says what really matters in the movie: "The race still goes on" - that the real heart of the race was not the power of Rome, but the power of Spirituality and Love. Great story with so many meaningful moments - such as the entire beginning of Judah's journey hinges on an accidental loose tile on a roof falling. But is life itself an accident? What matters more in life? Love or the Power of the Sword?
I have a copy of the book from the 1800s, I dont think it was a first printing but the actual title of the book is " Ben-Hur: A Tale of Christ." Lew Wallace was a covil war officer and the books whole point was placing us in the time of Jesus and showing us the effect He had on the people. Its a Wonderful Life and Ben Hur are my top 2 favorite movies. Its just sad, Hollywood made this film and it really was unifying as our people all shared this story of Christ, and yet today we are so divided. I wish it were possible to bring such an experience to younger people.
Great reaction to a great movie, thanks! Happy Easter😊✔️
Ben Hurs mother is the same actress who played Moses mother in the Ten commandments