The Ten Commandments (1956)

One of my favorite films of all time. The set designs and the visual effects are bar none some of the most impressive ever done up to that time and they still mostly hold up. One of my favorites is the angel of death descending near the moon like bony skeletal fingers. The burning bush is also nicely done as is the menacing Mount Sinai with the smoke and red glow.

Yul Brynner takes the best acting role for the film, he’s a multi dimensional character and I actually do have quite some sympathy for him. He’s a powerhouse as well, physically he is very imposing. Remarkable for someone who reportedly never really worked out or dieted. His father doesn’t have much respect for him, his wife doesn’t either and never seems to have really loved him and he is constantly tormented by the Hebrews, Moses in particular. In my opinion, Brynner is Pharaoh. When I read Exodus that’s who I picture, or anything about Rameses (secular works included).

Charlton Heston plays his part perfectly, although it is a bit stiff in the 2nd Act (guess that’s to be expected). Not my favorite role of his but he does an amazing job and I can’t really think of a contemporary actor that would have done a better job. I think Heston was in his element in Ben Hur but he is fine as Moses.

The rest of the cast does a fine job, including Baxter, Robinson and Price.

I do love DeMilles vision of Egypt though, the sets really do stick with me. It’s very impressive.