A Tale of Christ | Ben-Hur (2016)

Judah Ben-Hur, from prince to slave and back.

Dir. Timur Bekmambetov

            A Jesus movie in no lesser terms, Ben-Hur ranks as one of the best re-tellings of the messianic story. Like Star War’s Rogue One, its focus is on an ancillary drama within the larger universe of an already popular franchise. Whether the Roman-occupied world of Jesus or the storm trooper-occupied world of the Empire, both settings couch an action-packed drama within, each referencing the universal struggle for self-determination in the face of injustice and corrupted authority. 

The fictional account of Judah Ben Hur (Jack Huston), a Jewish prince living in Jerusalem at the time of Christ, comes from the homonymous Lew Wallace novel published in 1880 which, thanks to its riveting plot and deep introspection on themes of the Christian canon, became one of the most best-selling books of the 19^th century, later adapted for the stage, film and television on multiple occasions.   

There is a profound message, subtle as it is powerful, within this fast-paced film. As opposed to the Zealots, whose revolt draws parallels with today’s Muslim extremists, the Jesus movement is shown to be the truly subversive revolution—anathema to empires—that must be subdued and eradicated, initially through the cross and later through co-optation. It’s the message of Love, in the face of abuse and oppression, a salve for the anger in the hearts of those who fight and resist the powers that be.

In a world where crucifixions and circuses are tools of conquest and empire, a lowly carpenter (movingly depicted by Rodrigo Santoro) preaches of another way. Esther (Nazanin Boniadi), of whom a keen biblical reference is made, is an early convert. Like the hippies of the 1960s, she drops out to follow the message, demonstrating a revolutionary non-participation in the system. It's the path of peace, of putting down the weapons of war, the leaving behind of hate and the thirst for revenge, regardless of how seemingly justified. 

After the break up of his house, Judah is confounded by love-interest Esther’s transformation, clues to which he garners through their rushed, secret encounters. Eventually the shattering understanding hits him like an inner surrender, signaled by his breaking down in the pelting rain of Golgotha. Later, even Messala (Toby Kebbell), Ben-Hur’s adopted Roman brother, whom he faces down in the story’s iconic chariot race, will literally lay down the sword in reconciliation. It is one of several miracles Ben-Hur delivers, not least of which is the turning out of an exciting yarn for new generations to enjoy this classic of American popular culture.