Ben-Hur
In ancient Judea, a Jewish aristocrat opposing Roman occupation of his homeland reunites with his childhood friend, now a Roman commander — setting in motion a saga of betrayal, adventure, tragedy, revenge, and faith.
Critics Sentiment
Judah defeats Messala in the spectacular chariot race sequence
Judah agrees to race Messala's chariot for revenge
The film jumps from its slowest pacing during the pre-race buildup to the universally acclaimed chariot race sequence.
Ben-Hur maintains consistently high sentiment throughout its epic runtime, building from strong character establishment through devastating betrayal to spectacular action. The chariot race represents the film's absolute peak, while some reviewers noted pacing issues in the middle sections. The religious themes and family reunion provide an emotionally satisfying conclusion that reinforces the film's themes of forgiveness over revenge.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 69
Charlton Heston
Judah Ben-Hur
Stephen Boyd
Messala
Hugh Griffith
Scheich Ildirim
Jack Hawkins
Quintus Arrius
Haya Harareet
Esther
Martha Scott
Miriam
Cathy O'Donnell
Tirzah
Sam Jaffe
Simonides
Finlay Currie
Balthasar
Frank Thring
Pontius Pilatus
George Relph
Tiberius Caesar
André Morell
Sextus
Terence Longdon
Drusus
Ady Berber
Malluch
Lando Buzzanca
Jewish Slave in the Desert (uncredited)
Giuliano Gemma
Roman Officer with Messala (uncredited)
Marina Berti
Flavia (uncredited)
Robert Brown
Chief of Rowers (uncredited)
Liana Del Balzo
Guest at Banquet (uncredited)
Enzo Fiermonte
Galley Officer (uncredited)
Crew
Write a Review
Rate each story beat:
