'Exodus: Gods and Kings" -- Let the tribulations roll . . .

Posted by Billy Wonka (A) on December 12, 2014 at 15:11:22

the Hebrews got business elsewhere.

I found this to be a strangely compelling film. It was a typical Ridley Scott period piece with lavish sets, costumes, and staging. The script invites woodenness but Bale manages to skirt the temptation of dialing it in. Unfortunately, Edgerton got bested by Bale and the rest of the cast just didn't matter. Honorable mention for Maria Valverde as Moses eife.

I liked the way the plagues were done and without Moses warning Ramses of each one. One of Ramses court scientists explained away each as they came and the High Priestess had a somewhat whimsical role as well. The pagentry of the royal court was there but not in the style of De Mille.

Mild Spoilage: I did not see any mention of Ramses' father being in the film but a fine American actor opened it up as a wise ruler concerned about the future (and Ramses' abilities compared to Moses').

What Scott has done is to expand or envision the life of Moses within the context of the Biblical references. I did not feel violated as I did with 'Noah' which was a contemporary mess and showcase for science. This film gave me a "could'a been" feeling or sorts. I think one of the biggest surprises and whimsies is Scott's choice for God's messenger who appeared only to Moses.

It is very difficult to give a critical review of a film based on religious works. You can nail it for acting, directing, or whatever but you cannot discourage viewership. This is a better film than Noah and there should be no hesitation in seeing it from a Biblical standpoint.

Now, if you are expecting to see Ray Winstone come rasping out of the shadows with two daggers you will be sorely disappointed. Say, in my remake Winstone will be Ramses!

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Topic - 'Exodus: Gods and Kings" -- Let the tribulations roll . . . - Billy Wonka 15:11:22 12/12/14 (16)

RE: 'Exodus: Gods and Kings" -- Let the tribulations roll . . . - Bill the K 20:00:10 12/15/14 (2)

For... - mkuller 10:01:46 12/16/14 (0)

I dunno, 'Selma' may pull a '12 Years' . . . * - Billy Wonka 20:28:57 12/15/14 (0)

Noah... - musetap 09:09:36 12/13/14 (0)

26% critics, 43% audience (R-T). Hmmmm… nt - tinear 15:25:00 12/12/14 (11)

RE: 26% critics, 43% audience (R-T). Hmmmm… nt - Billy Wonka 17:28:42 12/12/14 (3)

"You can't handle the truth." nt - tinear 09:34:12 12/13/14 (1)

Yawn, Tin, you can't handle being third banana around here . . . - Billy Wonka 10:10:49 12/13/14 (0)

RE: 26% critics, 43% audience (R-T). Hmmmm… nt - musetap 09:21:10 12/13/14 (0)

Ooops! Better start work on Prometheus sequel post haste. Nt - geoffkait 15:44:45 12/12/14 (6)

Echoed by millions. Except next film, bring in Matt Damon. - free.ranger 16:07:54 12/12/14 (5)

How about Jim Parsons and Lena Dunham . . . - Billy Wonka 17:35:32 12/12/14 (4)

Cute. Maybe, but I have a better fit for your world. - free.ranger 20:16:33 12/12/14 (3)

Rod M doesn't take kindly to being made fun of . . . - Billy Wonka 10:12:13 12/13/14 (0)

Careful, this made his "Best 10" list. nt - tinear 09:36:12 12/13/14 (1)

The "Broken Toilet/Laxative" scene was an all time classic scene in cinema^ - Road Warrior 17:49:47 12/13/14 (0)

'Exodus: Gods and Kings" -- Let the tribulations roll . . .

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