The original 1959 film Ben-Hur, starring Charlton Heston, boasts a considerable running time: 3 hours and 32 minutes (212 minutes) without counting the overture, intermission, entr’acte, and exit music. This epic scope contributed significantly to its legendary status and enduring appeal.
The Epic Length: Understanding the 1959 Ben-Hur
The sheer length of Ben-Hur is a defining characteristic. In an era where movie-going was more of an event, this commitment of time reflected the grandeur and ambition of the production. But why such length? The answer lies in the filmmakers’ desire to faithfully adapt Lew Wallace’s massive novel and present a truly immersive cinematic experience.
The Novel’s Influence
Lew Wallace’s Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ is a sprawling epic, intertwining a personal tale of betrayal and redemption with the larger narrative of the life and times of Jesus Christ. The movie strived to capture the novel’s scope, including its numerous characters, detailed settings, and dramatic plot twists. Omitting key elements would have diminished the story’s impact.
Creating a Cinematic Spectacle
Beyond fidelity to the source material, the extended runtime allowed for the development of iconic scenes. The chariot race, arguably the most famous sequence in cinematic history, consumes a significant portion of the film. So do numerous other meticulously constructed segments. Building suspense, showcasing stunning visuals, and exploring complex character arcs all required substantial screen time.
The Roadshow Experience
Ben-Hur was released as a roadshow attraction, a theatrical presentation format prevalent in the mid-20th century. Roadshow films included extended intermissions, overtures, and exit music, adding to the overall experience and justifying higher ticket prices. These elements boosted the total time spent in the theater, making it a true event.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ben-Hur‘s Length and More
This section addresses some common questions about the 1959 Ben-Hur and its impressive length, diving deeper into its production and context.
FAQ 1: Does the 212-minute runtime include commercials or trailers?
No, the 212-minute runtime is the actual length of the film itself. It excludes any trailers, advertisements, or other promotional materials that may have been shown before or after the movie in different theatrical or home video releases.
FAQ 2: How long is Ben-Hur with the overture, intermission, entr’acte, and exit music?
Including all of these elements, a complete roadshow presentation of Ben-Hur would run for approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the length of the intermission and the specific versions of the musical cues.
FAQ 3: Are there different versions of Ben-Hur with varying runtimes?
Yes, there are minor variations depending on the release and format. Some television broadcasts or home video versions may have been slightly edited for time, resulting in a shorter runtime. However, the core narrative remains essentially the same across these versions. The most complete and accurate length is generally considered the theatrical release version.
FAQ 4: Why was Ben-Hur so long compared to other movies of its time?
Several factors contributed to Ben-Hur‘s length, including its source material (a lengthy novel), its ambition to be a grand epic, and the theatrical format of roadshow presentations, which encouraged longer runtimes and included intermissions and other theatrical elements. Most films of the era were considerably shorter, but Ben-Hur aimed for a significantly more immersive experience.
FAQ 5: Is the chariot race scene the longest single scene in the movie?
The chariot race scene is one of the longest and most memorable sequences in Ben-Hur, but it is not necessarily the absolute longest single scene. Other extended scenes, such as those depicting Judah Ben-Hur’s enslavement or his interactions with Jesus, also contribute substantially to the film’s overall length.
FAQ 6: Did the length of Ben-Hur impact its success at the box office?
While some moviegoers might have been initially hesitant due to the length, the epic scale and breathtaking visuals ultimately drew massive crowds. The film’s length became a selling point, emphasizing its status as a cinematic spectacle worthy of the time investment. Word-of-mouth and critical acclaim further fueled its success.
FAQ 7: Has the movie ever been shortened or edited significantly for television?
Yes, over the years, Ben-Hur has been occasionally shortened for television broadcasts to fit within time slots. These edited versions often remove subplots or shorten key scenes, impacting the film’s overall pacing and depth. To appreciate the true scope of Ben-Hur, viewing the original theatrical version is highly recommended.
FAQ 8: How does the 1959 Ben-Hur compare to the 2016 remake in terms of length?
The 2016 remake of Ben-Hur, starring Jack Huston, has a much shorter runtime of approximately 2 hours and 4 minutes (124 minutes). This substantial difference reflects a modern approach to filmmaking, prioritizing a faster pace and streamlined narrative.
FAQ 9: Was the intermission in the original theatrical release always at the same point in the film?
The intermission placement could vary slightly depending on the specific theater and presentation. However, it generally occurred around the midpoint of the film, often after a major plot development or during a scene break to allow for a natural pause in the narrative.
FAQ 10: Does the length of the movie allow for deeper character development?
Absolutely. The extended runtime provides ample opportunity to explore the characters in depth, showcasing their motivations, relationships, and personal growth. This contributes significantly to the film’s emotional impact and allows the audience to connect more deeply with the characters’ journeys.
FAQ 11: Were there any criticisms regarding the length of Ben-Hur upon its initial release?
While widely praised, some critics did express concerns about the film’s length, suggesting that certain scenes could have been trimmed without significantly impacting the narrative. However, these criticisms were largely overshadowed by the film’s overwhelmingly positive reception and immense popularity.
FAQ 12: Where can I find the most accurate and complete version of Ben-Hur to watch today?
The most accurate and complete version of Ben-Hur can usually be found on Blu-ray or DVD editions that specifically state they are the restored or “unabridged” version. Streaming services often offer various versions, so check the runtime details before watching to ensure you’re experiencing the intended length. The Criterion Collection Blu-ray is highly recommended for its meticulous restoration and accompanying materials.
The Enduring Legacy of an Epic
The length of Ben-Hur is more than just a number; it’s integral to its identity as an epic cinematic achievement. The extended runtime allowed for a level of detail, spectacle, and character development rarely seen, cementing its place in film history. While modern viewers may be accustomed to shorter films, experiencing Ben-Hur in its full glory remains a worthwhile endeavor, offering a glimpse into a different era of filmmaking and the enduring power of a truly epic story.