Uncover the Oscar-Winning Biblical Epic that Dominated Box Offices on July 15, 1960

They just don’t make films like they used to. In today’s cinematic landscape, a near four-hour biblical epic is a rarity. Yet, the legacy of 1959’s “Ben-Hur” endures, maintaining its status as one of the finest historical sagas ever committed to film.

The narrative follows Judah Ben-Hur, portrayed by Charlton Heston, who rises from betrayal as a child to become a celebrated charioteer after rescuing a Roman commander. Empowered by his elevated standing, Judah embarks on a quest to seek out the person responsible for his early betrayal and to reconnect with his lost family.

First hitting theaters on November 18, 1959, “Ben-Hur” claimed the number one spot at the box office on July 15, 1960. However, this monumental achievement wasn’t instantaneous; it took until February 1960 for the film to ascend to these heights, 11 weeks after its premiere. Historically, it’s staggering box office haul of $74 million during its original run translates to nearly $850 million today.

This monumental box office breakthrough came just a couple of months before the 1960 Academy Awards held on April 4, where “Ben-Hur” triumphed with 11 Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director for William Wyler, and Best Actor for Charlton Heston. Though initially a slow starter, its eventual success showcased that 1959 was indeed a landmark year for cinema.

“Ben-Hur” was the zenith of a trend in biblical epics during 1959, following in the wake of productions like “The Robe” and “The Ten Commandments.” However, it far surpassed its predecessors, captivating audiences with its thrilling sequences, most notably the iconic chariot race scene. Though deeply rooted in biblical storytelling and intertwined with the narrative of Jesus Christ, it offers enough universal appeal to engage even secular viewers.

Religious themes and iconography were essential to telling the story of “Ben-Hur.” The film came out in the midst of the Hays Code, which was in effect from 1934 to 1968. This forbid any radical ideas or images, such as excessive violence, promiscuity, and homosexuality. 

In fact, Gore Vidal, who did touch-ups on the “Ben-Hur” screenplay, has said that he included subtext to imply that Ben-Hur and Messala (Stephen Boyd), the man who betrayed him years ago, were ex-lovers. Heston denied such interpretations, but it makes for a fascinating reading. 

There have been various interpretations of “Ben-Hur” over the years, and the 1959 version isn’t even the first. But the 2016 rendition is easily one of the worst remakes of all time, losing much of what made the original so special, subtext and all. “Ben-Hur” might be over 60 years old, but it hasn’t missed a step and is still worth watching today.