(Fred Niblo, US 1925, 140 min., 35mm)
The most expensive spectacle of its time, this film tells the familiar story of Judah Ben-Hur (matinee idol Ramon Novarro) in the early days of Christianity. His wealthy family is persecuted for their faith by the Romans, including Judah’s childhood friend Messala. Following an accident, Judah is sentenced to life as a galley slave and separated from his family. He seeks to find a way to escape, exact his revenge, and find his sister and mother. The massive sea battle scene and the famous chariot race are the centerpieces of this epic tale that still resonates a hundred years later.
Free admission for all.
Live piano accompaniment by Philip Carli.
35mm print from the George Eastman Museum collection.
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