Ben-Hur (1959)

The original epic film, there will never be a movie like Ben-Hur ever again. Modern high-tech filmmaking, like that used in Titanic, has reduced the need for thousands of extras and enormous sets. But nothing can replace the feel of a huge movie like Ben-Hur. Almost 50 years later, the chariot race scene is still gripping. This film version departed somewhat from the Christ-centered story of the novel and previous versions, but although that element was weak, the film still remains strong. And long—almost 3 ½ hours long, to be exact. This was a big film in every respect. I still don’t think Charleton Heston is that great of an actor (I kept expecting him to say “Get your hands off me, you damn dirty ape!”), but his real-life performance in the chariot race was impressive. They just don’t make movies like this anymore.