Guide Note

Ben-Hur is an epic film directed by William Wyler in 1959. It was one of many adaptations of the 1880 novel Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ, written by Lew Wallace. The 1959 version starred Charlton Heston, won 11 Academy Awards. The movie is famous not only for its story and acting, but also for its lavishly detailed special effects, including a its legendary chariot race scene.

Fast Facts

1. Release Date: December 10, 1959
2. Directed by: William Wyler
3. Starring: Charlton Heston, Jack Hawkins, Haya Harareet, Stephen Boyd, and Hugh Griffith
4. Distributor: MGM Studios
5. Running Time: 212 Minutes
6. Rated: G
7. Budget: $15 million
8. Box Office Earnings: $109 Million
9. Tagline: "A Tale of the Christ"
10. Only other movies to win 11 Oscars: Titanic in 1997 and Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King in 2003

Judah Ben-Hur (Charlton Heston) is a wealthy Jewish prince in the city of Jerusalem. Judah's childhood friend Messala, a Roman officer, has returned to the city after being named governor. The two soon discover that despite their old friendship, political differences have put them at odds. At a parade honoring the new political leadership, Messala is nearly struck by a brick while passing Judah's house. Messala opportunistically accuses Judah of attempted murder, sending his old friend to the galley and imprisoning his family. From prince to slave, Judah Ben-Hur seeks revenge against the Roman governor, and freedom for his family.

1. Best Motion Picture
2. Best Leading Actor (Charlton Heston)
3. Best Supporting Actor (Hugh Griffith)
4. Best Director
5. Best Set Decoration, Color
6. Best Cinematography, Color
7. Best Costume Design, Color
8. Best Special Effects
9. Best Film Editing
10. Best Music, Scoring of a Dramatic or Comedy Picture
11. Best Sound