The Making of The Ten Commandments

The documentary "The Making of The Ten Commandments" is a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the making of one of the most iconic biblical epics in cinema history, directed by the legendary Cecil B. DeMille. The film begins with an introduction by DeMille himself, in which he explains the epic scope and grandeur of the project that was about to unfold. He also shares his own vision of recreating the story of Moses, as told in the Old Testament, on the big screen. This is followed by a visit to the vast and bustling sets of Goshen and Egypt, where the production team was hard at work recreating the ancient world, complete with elaborate temples, pyramids, and sprawling cities. One of the key aspects that set "The Ten Commandments" apart from other biblical films was its emphasis on spectacle and visual grandeur. DeMille and his team spared no expense in creating elaborate sets and costumes, and the documentary showcases the sheer scale and detail that went into recreating the world of ancient Egypt. The film also delves into the casting process, with Charlton Heston recalling his initial hesitation to take on the role of Moses, despite DeMille's enthusiasm for the project. Yul Brynner, who played Rameses II, shares his experiences of working with DeMille, who was known for his demanding but fair leadership style. The documentary also takes a closer look at the groundbreaking special effects that were used to bring the story to life. These included the use of miniature models, matte paintings, and extensive location shooting in the American Southwest. DeMille's innovative use of these techniques helped to create a sense of authenticity and realism that added depth and scope to the film. As the documentary progresses, we are treated to a series of fascinating interviews with many of the key cast and crew members, including Anne Baxter, who played Nefretiri, and DeMille's own son, Richard DeMille, who served as the production's assistant director. These interviews offer a unique glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of the production team, as they worked tirelessly to bring DeMille's vision to life. The documentary also features a compilation of clips from other biblical films, known as "Hollywood Looks at the Bible," which showcases a range of innovative and sometimes eccentric takes on the same Old Testament stories. These short films, which date back to the early days of cinema, demonstrate the enduring appeal of the biblical narrative and the creative ways in which filmmakers have sought to interpret these stories over the years. One of the most fascinating aspects of "The Making of The Ten Commandments" is its portrayal of the relationship between DeMille and his star, Charlton Heston. Their partnership was built on mutual respect and trust, and the documentary captures the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that defined their collaboration. DeMille's own vision for the film was to create a story that would resonate with a wide range of audiences, both within the United States and around the globe. He believed that the story of Moses was timeless and universal, and that it had the power to inspire and uplift audiences in the midst of war and conflict. As the documentary draws to a close, we are treated to a series of behind-the-scenes moments from the film's production, including footage of the epic storm sequence that marks Moses parting the Red Sea. This breathtaking scene was the culmination of months of planning and preparation, and DeMille's innovative use of special effects helped to create a truly unforgettable spectacle. The documentary concludes with a fascinating look at the gala Hollywood premiere of "The Ten Commandments," which attracted a star-studded cast of attendees and was widely hailed as a major cinematic achievement. As DeMille himself notes, the film's success marked a new era in the production of epic biblical dramas, and paved the way for a new generation of filmmakers to explore the richness and diversity of the biblical narrative. In the end, "The Making of The Ten Commandments" is a testament to the enduring power and appeal of DeMille's vision, and the extraordinary lengths to which he and his team went to bring that vision to life. This is a film that will delight fans of "The Ten Commandments" and anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes stories of Hollywood's greatest films.