This weekend marks both Easter and Passover Seder, and you know what that means: out of the hundreds of people buying chocolate and bunny decorations, there's going to be a small minority of us paying attention to more serious matters. Both Jew and Christian alike will spend the weekend learning about and remembering important moments in religious and worldwide history, and that can mean a chance to see our old Easter favorites. And no, that doesn't mean "The Ten Commandments", which can be substituted for these two awesomer (and in my opinion, more powerful) films:
1. Ben-Hur ( William Wyler, 1959 )
Despite massive sets and a cast of hundreds, Ben-Hur still manages to keep an eye on the human aspect of the story. Ben's fury and violent revenge on his former BFF Messala is a great character flaw, and makes his newfound Christianity at the climax of the film a genuinely redeeming moment. The Crucifixion is presented well, with music and the reactions of others replacing the need for gore and brutality (ex. "The Passion of the Christ"). This movie also boasts the best ( and most dangerous ) chariot race scene, as well as the great decision to never show Christ's face, only his actions. This is an epic tale that never forgets the very personal core: Jesus Christ being the Redeemer of all.
2. The Prince of Egypt ( Brenda Champan+Simon Wells+Steve Hickner, 1998 )
"Prince" is a great movie, a worthy first picture from the Dreamworks team. Not only is it suitably powerful and heartwarming, but it's open enough for every religion to enjoy, rather than just the Hebrew community. That said, this might be better for Passover celebrations than Easter. "Prince of Egypt" is an ideal film to help kids better understand the story of the Exodus that is revered by several major faiths, and is also mature enough for adults to enjoy. While Val Kilmer is an odd choice to voice Moses, it's barely noticeable amid the perfect storytelling and intense soundtrack. So just pop in this gem once you're done lighting the Menorah and reciting the...wait a minute, I think I'm mixing up holidays...
Well, that's my critique of the two movies I feel are the best to show this time of year. Hope you agree, and Happy Easter/Passover!
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