It’s the film that seems to get wheeled out every Easter, except for this one it would appear. Never having seen the film in it’s entirety before I decided to seek it out, I mean what self respecting film geek hasn’t seen The Ten Commandments? So, I got the DVD and a pillow and sat through all 3 hours and 39 minutes of this supposed classic. I was thankful for the pillow…..

Whilst I am glad that I have finally gotten round to seeing it I can say with no hesitation that I won’t be watching it again. It’s just way to long and the story just doesn’t interest me enough to warrant further watches. I’m not big into religion, I don’t have a faith as such and I feel like a hypocrite when I have to go to church for a wedding, christening, funeral etc. My atheist tendencies aside, what did I think of the film?

Well, it’s certainly an ambitious affair. You can’t help but be impressed by what was achieved by Cecil B. Demile. Grand, huge sets, a (literal) cast of thousands and some impressive special effects (even today) must have meant that the film cost a few bucks to put together. Such an achievement would be impressive today no matter 1956 when the film was released. I was especially impressed with how epic and grand the cities of the Egyptians were. Huge obelisks, pillars, pyramids and statues are everywhere and DeMille recreates them excellently.

Also impressive is the special effects work that surrounds the various miracles that God channels through Moses. The parting of the Red Sea in particular still looks pretty good today. Also of note is the Nile turning to blood and a pretty groovy mist effect for the pestilence that will kill all the firstborn. So if anything, the film is certainly a treat for the eyes.

A very youthful Charlton Heston can be found in the lead role of Moses and he does a pretty decent job. He has quite a commanding presence, perfect for the man who will lead the Hebrews. I liked Yul Brynner as Rameses; he has a distinctive look and was perfectly cast. Edward G. Robinson was fun as Dathan, and it was nice to see Vincent Price in a small role. I should also add the various women in the film were quite attractive, they must be getting on now, but back then they were easy on the eyes.

All the great visuals and fine acting can’t take away from the fact that the film is over three and a half hours long. DeMille kindly gives you an intermission, but I got the feeling that such a grand story may have benefited more form being split over 2 movies.

I know a lot of the film is lifted straight from the bible, but I had a hard time believing some of the story. I didn’t buy that the Hebrews would turn to a false God, just because Moses had been up the mountain for 40 days. Didn’t they see the Red Sea parting? Or the Nile turning to blood? Or the green mist of death? Maybe they have short memories, but if I was there and had seen these things that God had done I might have been willing to give Moses a bit of time to produce the goods.