Moses and Pharaoh, Reelive

Moses
Moses

Let my people go!

Ramses
Ramses

Who is this God that I should obey him?

Moses
Moses

The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Ramses
Ramses

Your God? He is not known to me!

Moses
Moses

By my hand, He shall show power!

Ramses
Ramses

I will not let them go!

Moses
Moses

With each plague, you will come to know Him!

Ramses
Ramses

Do your worst, for I will NEVER yield!

Moses Receives the Commandments, Reelive

God
God

I am the Lord thy God.

Moses
Moses

What shall I say to the people?

God
God

Say 'I AM' has sent you.

Moses
Moses

But they will not believe me!

God
God

I will give you signs.

Moses
Moses

I am slow of speech!

God
God

Who made man's mouth? Go, I will be with your mouth.

Miriam's Plea for Moses, Reelive

Miriam
Miriam

Brother, the burden you carry is too great.

Moses
Moses

I must fulfill my duty.

Miriam
Miriam

But at what cost to you?

Moses
Moses

My life is not my own.

Miriam
Miriam

You must trust in God.

Moses
Moses

I do, but the path is fraught with danger.

Miriam
Miriam

Then allow me to stand by your side.

The Passover, Reelive

Moses
Moses

Tonight, the Angel of Death will pass over us.

Elders
Elders

What must we do?

Moses
Moses

Take a lamb, without blemish, and mark your door.

Elders
Elders

Will this protect us?

Moses
Moses

It will save our firstborns.

Elders
Elders

We will obey!

Moses
Moses

Prepare yourselves, for freedom is near!

Moses Discovers His Heritage, Reelive

Moses
Moses

I am a Hebrew!

Nefretiri
Nefretiri

You are royal!

Moses
Moses

What good is royalty if it costs the lives of my people?

Nefretiri
Nefretiri

They are slaves!

Moses
Moses

They are my brothers and sisters!

Nefretiri
Nefretiri

You cannot save them!

Moses
Moses

I must try!

Nefretiri's Warning, Reelive

Nefretiri
Nefretiri

You would defy the Pharaoh?

Moses
Moses

I will do what is right!

Nefretiri
Nefretiri

You risk everything for them!

Moses
Moses

I risk nothing compared to their suffering!

Nefretiri
Nefretiri

Your heart is foolish!

Moses
Moses

Better a foolish heart than a hardened soul.

The Plagues Begin, Reelive

Moses
Moses

Let my people go!

Ramses
Ramses

You will pay for this insolence!

Moses
Moses

The waters will turn to blood!

Ramses
Ramses

I will have you punished!

Moses
Moses

Your wrath means nothing against God!

Ramses
Ramses

You dare defy me?

Moses
Moses

I dare, and I will not falter.

Moses Challenges the Gods of Egypt, Reelive

Moses
Moses

Your gods are false!

Priest
Priest

You speak blasphemy!

Moses
Moses

They will not save you from His might!

Priest
Priest

We command the waters!

Moses
Moses

My God commands the waters!

Priest
Priest

You are a madman!

Moses
Moses

Madness is knowing truth in the face of lies!

The Red Sea, Reelive

Moses
Moses

Fear not! Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord!

Israelite
Israelite

What will we do?

Moses
Moses

The Lord will fight for us!

Israelite
Israelite

But the army approaches!

Moses
Moses

Lift your staff and divide the sea!

Israelite
Israelite

Is it possible?

Moses
Moses

With faith, all things are possible!

Ramses' Last Stand, Reelive

Ramses
Ramses

You will never take my throne!

Moses
Moses

Your throne is built on the backs of the oppressed!

Ramses
Ramses

I will reclaim what is mine!

Moses
Moses

You cannot turn away from the truth!

Ramses
Ramses

I will bury you!

Moses
Moses

Then you will bury yourself in your pride!

Moses Leading the People, Reelive

Moses
Moses

We are free! The Lord has delivered us!

Israelite
Israelite

But where do we go now?

Moses
Moses

We follow the promise of our God!

Israelite
Israelite

Will He lead us?

Moses
Moses

His presence will be our guide!

Israelite
Israelite

In Him, we trust!

Moses
Moses

Then let us walk in faith!

The Golden Calf, Reelive

Moses
Moses

What is this you have done?

Israelite
Israelite

We wanted a god we could see!

Moses
Moses

You have turned your hearts away!

Israelite
Israelite

Forgive us, we were afraid!

Moses
Moses

God has shown His might, yet you still doubt!

Israelite
Israelite

We shall repent!

Moses
Moses

Repentance requires sacrifice!

Moses' Final Blessing, Reelive

Moses
Moses

Remember these commandments, for they are your heritage.

Israelite
Israelite

We will keep them!

Moses
Moses

With them, you will find life!

Israelite
Israelite

We honor your teachings!

Moses
Moses

Though I may not be with you, God will lead you!

Israelite
Israelite

We will follow!

Moses
Moses

Then go forth in His light!

Moses

Let my people go!

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

The Lord your God is a jealous God.

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
God (voice)

This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

God (voice)

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

You shall not make for yourself a carved image.

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
God (voice)

I have heard the cry of my people.

God (voice)

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
God (voice)

Moses, I have chosen you for a special purpose.

God (voice)

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

The path of the righteous is beset on all sides by the inequities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men.

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
God (voice)

I will send plagues upon Egypt!

God (voice)

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Ramses

So let it be written; so let it be done.

Ramses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Ramses

You have your gods, I have mine.

Ramses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

Behold, the hand of the Lord is upon the land.

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

You cannot serve both God and Pharaoh.

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

Fear not! You are no longer slaves.

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

It is your faith that will deliver you from bondage.

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

In every generation, we must remember.

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
He of the Hebrews

Who made you a prince and a judge over us?

He of the Hebrews

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

I do not seek to be a ruler. I am a servant of God.

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

Your blood will be on your own heads.

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

The first commandment is, 'I am the Lord your God.'

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

I have chosen to stand for the voiceless.

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

The time has come for the blood of the innocent to cease.

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive
Moses

This time, we shall be free!

Moses

The Ten Commandments, Reelive

The Exodus

The Exodus by Elmer Bernstein, Key theme throughout the film, particularly associated with the parting of the Red Sea

The Plagues

The Plagues by Elmer Bernstein, Music accompanying the scenes of the ten plagues

The Burning Bush

The Burning Bush by Elmer Bernstein, Theme associated with Moses' encounter with God


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Moses' Discovery of His Hebrew Heritage

Moses grows up in Pharaoh's palace but struggles with his identity. One day, he sees an Egyptian guard beating a Hebrew slave. This moment of witnessing his people's suffering triggers a deep emotional conflict within him. The pivotal moment occurs when he intervenes to save the slave, killing the guard in a moment of rage. This act seals his fate, forcing him to flee Egypt. After this, Moses battles feelings of guilt and confusion about his place in the world, setting off his journey towards freedom for his people.

Context: This scene is crucial as it marks the beginning of Moses' transformation from a privileged prince to someone who understands the plight of his people.

The Burning Bush

In the desert, after years of exile, Moses encounters a burning bush that is not consumed by fire. God's voice calls to him, appointing him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. The exact moment of revelation peaks when Moses hears the command, 'I AM WHO I AM.' The visuals of the fiery bush with its bright light contrast with the dark desert, symbolizing divine presence. It leaves Moses in awe and fear, which shakes him to his core.

Context: This scene symbolizes Moses’ awakening and acceptance of his destiny, marking his transition from fugitive to leader.

Moses Returns to Egypt

Moses returns to Egypt with his brother Aaron, resolved to confront Pharaoh about freeing the Hebrew slaves. The tension grows as they approach the palace, knowing they are challenging a powerful ruler. The pivotal moment arrives when Moses demands, 'Let my people go!' Pharaoh's reaction—dismissing him and increasing the slaves' burdens—highlights the oppression faced by the Hebrews and ignites Moses’ determination.

Context: This confrontation sets the stage for the ensuing struggles and miracles that will follow, emphasizing the film's themes of faith and resistance.

The Plagues of Egypt Begin

As Pharaoh refuses to relent, Egypt suffers from a series of plagues sent by God. The pivotal moment occurs when the Nile turns to blood; horrified Egyptians watch as fish die and their water supply is polluted. The visuals of blood flowing through the streets create a haunting image of despair. This scene encapsulates the struggle between divine justice and human stubbornness.

Context: The plagues represent God's wrath and serve as a direct challenge to Pharaoh's authority, demonstrating the righteousness of Moses' mission.

The Death of the Firstborn

In a heart-wrenching climax, the final plague results in the death of every firstborn male in Egypt. The haunting nighttime atmosphere is pierced by mothers' wails and Pharaoh's grief. The pivotal moment is when the angel of death passes over the homes marked with lamb's blood, sparing the Israelites. This visual contrast dramatically showcases faith saving lives amidst tragedy.

Context: This climactic event earns the Israelites their freedom but devastatingly illustrates the cost of Pharaoh's stubbornness.

Parting of the Red Sea

As the Israelites flee Egypt, they reach the Red Sea, trapped between the water and Pharaoh's pursuing army. The moment of tension peaks when Moses raises his staff and the sea miraculously parts, creating a dry path. The staggering visuals of towering water walls and the Israelites crossing in awe captures the miraculous nature of faith. This pivotal moment embodies hope and divine intervention.

Context: It is a transformative moment that solidifies Moses as a true leader and brings freedom to the Hebrew people.

Receiving the Ten Commandments

Moses ascends Mount Sinai to receive the Ten Commandments from God. The moment is climactic as he witnesses thunder, lightning, and divine glory. When God delivers the commandments, there’s a reverence in the air that resonates with the audience. The significance lies in the profound moral code that will guide the Israelites, emphasizing justice and faith.

Context: This moment is foundational for religious teachings and underscores the film's exploration of law, morality, and divine guidance.

The Golden Calf

Despairing at Moses' delay, the Israelites create a golden calf to worship, betraying their covenant with God. The intensity builds as Moses returns, witnessing the idolatry. His anger peaks; he shatters the tablets of the commandments. This act symbolizes a critical breaking point for both his leadership and the relationship with God.

Context: The scene highlights the theme of faith versus doubt and the consequences of turning away from divine guidance.

Moses Intercedes for the People

Moses pleads with God to spare the Israelites from punishment after the golden calf incident. His heartfelt monologue includes phrases like, 'Forgive their sin, but if not, blot me out of Your book.' This shows deep compassion and commitment. His emotional struggle reinforces the theme of redemption and mercy.

Context: This moment is vital as it demonstrates the power of intercession and God's forgiveness.

The Journey Through the Wilderness

Moses leads the Israelites through the desert, facing numerous challenges: hunger, thirst, and fear. The pivotal moment occurs when the people grumble against him, questioning God's provision. The visuals of vast, desolate landscapes magnify their struggles while Moses demonstrates unyielding faith. This testing period shapes their collective character.

Context: The wilderness journey illustrates the themes of perseverance, trial, and faith in God's promises.

Miriam's Song of Praise

After crossing the Red Sea, Miriam leads the women in a song of victory. The joyous atmosphere is palpable as they celebrate their deliverance with vibrant dancing and singing. This uplifting moment contrasts sharply with their previous suffering, symbolizing hope and faith triumphing over despair.

Context: This scene encapsulates the theme of liberation and joyous worship, giving an emotional release after the preceding turmoil.

Moses Struggles with Leadership

Facing constant complaints from the Israelites, Moses feels overwhelmed and isolated. The pivotal moment comes when Jethro, his father-in-law, advises him to delegate some of his responsibilities. This conversation represents a turning point for Moses, acknowledging that leadership does not mean doing everything alone.

Context: It showcases the importance of community and support within leadership roles.

The Tabernacle Is Built

As God gives Moses the plans for the Tabernacle, the Israelites come together in a communal effort to construct it. The scene shows the dedication and artistry of the people as they contribute their skills and treasures. The pivotal moment arises as the Tabernacle is completed, symbolizing God's dwelling among His people.

Context: The Tabernacle serves as a physical representation of faith and community, reinforcing their bond with God.

Moses' Farewell

As Moses approaches the end of his life, he delivers a heartfelt farewell address to the Israelites, reminding them of their journey and covenant with God. His emotional farewell emphasizes themes of legacy and perseverance. The pivotal moment is when he charges them to remember their history and remain faithful.

Context: This scene encapsulates Moses' journey and serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of faith and memory.

The Plague of Locusts

The episode of locusts decimating the Egyptian fields is visually striking and impactful. The air darkens as millions of locusts blot out the sun, transitioning from daylight to dark. The emotional intensity peaks as Egyptians fall into despair as their crops are obliterated, epitomizing the dire consequences of Pharaoh's defiance.

Context: This scene highlights the severity of God’s plagues and the urgency of the Israelites’ plight.

Moses Angers God Again

In the wilderness, Moses hits a rock to bring forth water after God commanded him to speak to it. The pivotal moment is when God tells Moses he will not enter the Promised Land due to his disobedience. This shocking revelation leads to heartbreak as it portrays the heavy burden of leadership and its consequences.

Context: This scene emphasizes the importance of obedience to God and the weight of leadership.

The Israelites at Mount Sinai

As the Israelites camp at the foot of Mount Sinai, a sense of anticipation hangs in the air. The scene crescendos with thunder and lightning as God descends, making the moment both awe-inspiring and frightening. The visuals convey the majesty of God and the significance of this meeting, with the ground trembling beneath their feet.

Context: This scene sets the stage for the giving of the commandments and emphasizes the holiness of God's presence.

Joshua's Leadership

As Moses names Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, the moment represents a passing of the baton. The emotional charge peaks as Moses gives Joshua encouragement, reminding him to be strong and courageous. This signifies hope and a new beginning for the Israelites.

Context: It symbolizes the continuity of leadership and the unbreakable spirit of the people.

Caleb's Faith

When Caleb stands up among the Israelites to express faith that they can conquer the Promised Land, the scene highlights his conviction in God’s promise. His boldness sparks inspiration among the fearful people, reminding them of past miracles. This moment of courage amidst doubt embodies the theme of belief and hope.

Context: This scene illustrates the importance of faith when faced with adversity.

The Rock and the Hard Place

Moses finds himself caught between the rock of God's command and the Israelites' complaints. The pivotal moment occurs when he loses his temper, leading to his disobedience. The raw emotions and tension illustrate the personal toll leadership takes on him and the evolving Moses.

Context: This struggle exemplifies the human side of faith leaders and the difficulty of remaining steadfast.

Moses Watches Over His People

As Moses gazes at the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land, there is a mix of hope and melancholy. The emotional weight hangs heavy as he reflects on their journey, the hardships faced, and the fulfillment of God’s promise. His bittersweet farewell evokes a sense of nostalgia.

Context: This moment captures the essence of Moses' commitment to his people and serves as a reflection on the journey of faith.

The Blessing of the Tribes

Moses blesses each tribe of Israel before his death. Each blessing is filled with heartfelt emotion and reflects their unique characteristics. The camaraderie and unity among the tribes underscore the chosen status of Israel and divine favoritism. This moment cements Moses’ role as a leader who cares deeply for his people.

Context: The scene emphasizes community, legacy, and God’s continued presence with Israel.

Moses' Death

Moses gazes at the Promised Land he will never enter. His final moments are serene and poignant, filled with a sense of peace and fulfillment. The emotional climax peaks as he lays down to rest, marked by the passing of a great leader. This scene encapsulates a life dedicated to a higher purpose.

Context: It represents the culmination of Moses' journey and the bittersweet nature of destiny.


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Casting of Charlton Heston as Moses

Charlton Heston was not the first choice for the role of Moses; director Cecil B. DeMille initially considered other actors such as Yul Brynner.

Why it matters: Heston's portrayal became iconic, and his strong performance is often credited with shaping the character of Moses and creating a memorable hero figure for audiences.

Plagues Effects with Real Water

The special effects team used real water and various chemicals to create the scenes depicting the plagues of Egypt, including the water turning to blood.

Why it matters: This realistic approach added authenticity to the film’s dramatic moments, heightening the impact of the plagues on the audience and solidifying the film’s status as a cinematic spectacle.

Use of Miniatures

The grand set designs, particularly for the city of Egypt, utilized miniature models to create the expansive look of the environments.

Why it matters: By using miniatures alongside large-scale sets, the filmmakers were able to achieve grand visuals while maintaining budget constraints, ultimately enhancing the film’s epic feel.

Cecil B. DeMille's Direction Style

Cecil B. DeMille’s directing style involved meticulous planning and detailed storyboards for every scene, which allowed for a more organized filming process.

Why it matters: This structured approach enabled a cohesive storytelling style, enhancing the pacing and clarity of the narrative in a film that spanned over three hours.

Realistic Chariot Races

The famous chariot race scene was filmed using stunt horses and carriages built specifically for high-speed filming.

Why it matters: The authenticity of the stunts created an unforgettable sequence that stands out in the film and is pivotal for its action sequences.

Yul Brynner's Unique Characterization

Yul Brynner, who played Ramses, chose to shave his head to better embody the role and create a distinct look for the character.

Why it matters: This choice made Ramses visually memorable, portraying the character’s authority and strength effectively, contributing to the film's tension between Moses and Pharaoh.

The Red Sea Miracle

The parting of the Red Sea was achieved using a combination of practical effects and miniatures, alongside innovative camera techniques and editing.

Why it matters: This groundbreaking scene remains one of the most iconic moments in cinema history, representing faith and liberation and cementing the film's legacy.

Behind the Scenes Union Strikes

Production faced challenges with union strikes that delayed filming, leading to creative improvisation and adjustments in the shooting schedule.

Why it matters: These adjustments often resulted in more creative solutions being applied, enhancing the overall quality of the film despite initial setbacks.

Iconic Score by Elmer Bernstein

Elmer Bernstein’s score for the film was a significant departure from typical Biblical film music, incorporating grand orchestral arrangements.

Why it matters: The memorable score contributed to the emotional weight of the film, enhancing the audience's experience and becoming recognized alongside the film itself.

Historical Scholar Involvement

Historical scholars were consulted during the production to ensure the film maintained a sense of authenticity regarding ancient Egyptian culture.

Why it matters: While artistic liberties were taken, this commitment added a layer of credibility to the film, allowing it to be both entertaining and informative.

DeMille's Religious Undertones

Cecil B. DeMille infused the film with personal religious beliefs and messages that resonated with his own faith and worldview.

Why it matters: This personal connection to the material emphasized themes of faith and redemption, deepening the film’s impact on audiences who shared similar beliefs.

Construction of Massive Sets

The set of the Egyptian city was built on a massive scale, with many buildings reaching over a hundred feet in height, made to impress viewers.

Why it matters: The grandeur of the sets played a crucial role in establishing the film’s epic nature and transporting audiences to a vivid representation of ancient Egypt.

Use of Over 14,000 Extras

The film used over 14,000 extras in various scenes, particularly during large crowd moments and battles, requiring meticulous coordination.

Why it matters: This grand scale of extras contributed to the film’s authenticity, creating a more immersive experience that highlighted the community and conflict central to the story.

Influence of the Script

The screenplay underwent considerable revisions, with input from multiple writers, ensuring the dialogue suited the grandeur of the visual storytelling.

Why it matters: The powerful dialogue became an essential aspect of character development and thematic exploration, resonating deeply with the audience.

Banned Footage

Certain scenes featuring nudity and violence were ultimately cut or altered to appease censorship boards and ensure a broader audience could view the film.

Why it matters: These decisions affected the film’s pacing and intensity but also allowed it to reach a wider audience, ensuring its place in cinematic history.

Real Life Inspiration

Cecil B. DeMille stated his desire to make a film about Moses stemmed from years of personal interest and study of the biblical story.

Why it matters: This passion for the subject matter underscored DeMille’s commitment to authenticity and fidelity to the source material, enhancing the film's emotional resonance.

Challenges with Special Effects

The special effects used in critical scenes, especially around the parting of the Red Sea, were considered cutting-edge for the time but faced many technical hurdles.

Why it matters: The relentless pursuit of innovative techniques paid off, resulting in unforgettable sequences that significantly influenced the future of visual storytelling.

Location Filming in Egypt

The film had planned sequences to be filmed on location in Egypt, but due to political instability, these plans were scrapped in favor of studio filming.

Why it matters: While this limited the visual authenticity of specific locales, the high production values of the studio sets managed to effectively substitute this loss.

Editing and Runtime

The final cut of 'The Ten Commandments' was heavily edited, resulting in a runtime of almost four hours when considering its original length.

Why it matters: The extensive runtime and editing decisions allowed for the development of complex characters and a rich narrative, which contributed to its status as a classic.

Audience Reception

Upon release, the film was a massive box office success, making it one of the highest-grossing films of its time and leading to numerous re-releases.

Why it matters: This success cemented 'The Ten Commandments' as a staple of classic cinema, influencing generations of filmmakers and audience expectations for epic storytelling.

The Film's Religious Impact

The film led to enhanced interest in biblical stories and themes in mainstream cinema and television, inspiring a trend of religious epics in Hollywood.

Why it matters: This impact resonated beyond cinema, contributing to cultural discourse and religious perspectives within popular media for decades.

Iconic Voiceover Work

The distinctive narration at the film's start was voiced by none other than the director Cecil B. DeMille himself.

Why it matters: DeMille's authoritative voice set the tone for the epic narrative and established the film's gravity right from the beginning.

UNCUT Premieres

Many later television broadcasts would air the film in a cut version; however, the original full-length version was restored for special premieres.

Why it matters: This restoration allowed new generations to appreciate the film in its entirety, revealing subtleties and character arcs previously overlooked.

Filming in California

Most of the filming took place in California's deserts, utilizing natural landscapes to replicate the settings of ancient Egypt.

Why it matters: This creative location choice showcased the filmmakers' ability to transform available resources into a visually stunning representation of the biblical narrative.


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