What observers say
“I feel that the subject of Moses and the Ten Commandments is particularly timely today… A constant stream of letters to me from all parts of America and from foreign countries has proved this and has largely influenced me to the subject of Moses, the heroic figure revered by Jews and Christians alike,” said Cecil B. DeMille, the legendary director behind the iconic film. This statement encapsulates the enduring relevance of The Ten Commandments, a cinematic masterpiece that has captivated audiences since its release.
Charlton Heston’s portrayal of Moses in The Ten Commandments is not just a performance; it is an embodiment of a cultural touchstone that transcends generations. The film, which first aired on ABC at 7 PM ET, has become a staple of American television, airing annually since 1973. Its runtime of 3 hours and 39 minutes is a testament to the epic storytelling that DeMille masterfully crafted.
With a production budget of $13.3 million, The Ten Commandments was a significant investment for its time. The film’s initial box office gross of $122.7 million, adjusted for inflation, now stands at an astonishing $2 billion. This financial success underscores not only the film’s popularity but also its cultural impact, as it has been selected for preservation by the Library of Congress.
One of the most memorable aspects of the film is the dramatic parting of the Red Sea, achieved with a staggering 360,000 gallons of water. This visual spectacle contributed to the film winning an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects, further solidifying its status as a landmark in cinematic history.
While The Ten Commandments has enjoyed immense success, it is essential to acknowledge its competition. For instance, Ben-Hur, directed by William Wyler, won 11 Academy Awards on April 4, 1960, a record that still stands today. This year marks 66 years since that historic achievement, yet The Ten Commandments continues to hold its own in the annals of film history.
The film’s legacy is not merely about awards and box office numbers; it is about the themes it explores. The story of Moses resonates deeply with audiences, reflecting struggles for freedom and moral integrity. As DeMille noted, the relevance of these themes remains strong, as evidenced by the constant stream of letters he received from viewers around the world.
As we approach the 50th anniversary of its annual airing tradition, the anticipation for The Ten Commandments remains palpable. With each viewing, new generations discover the film’s powerful messages, ensuring that Charlton Heston’s portrayal of Moses will continue to inspire and provoke thought for years to come.
