05. THE TEN COMMANDMENTS (1955)
The classic biblical tale of Moses (Charlton Heston), Prince of Egypt, who learns that his true heritage as a Hebrew demands he undertake a divine mission as the deliverer of his people. His rejection of Egypt pits him further against his brother Rameses (Yul Brynner) and the rest of his adopted family. This lavish and visually striking masterpiece was Cecil B. Demilles remake of his own silent epic production from 1923. Loosing to a film of equally epic scope Around the World in Eighty Days (1956) Demilles opus stands out as the more impressive production. With a host of extraordinary special effects (particularly the scene depicting Mosess parting of the Red Sea), solid performances from its extensive cast and a narrative that keeps you gripped throughout the four hour running time, it is a symbol remarkable filmmaking craftsmanship on Demilles part. Winner of 5 awards, Around the World is also a thoroughly entertaining romp, but doesnt exhibit craftsmanship of the same scale as Commandments.