I cannot imagine what they thought needed improving in the Heston version.
I suppose there are valid explanations for remaking a movie, but a classic like "Ben Hur"???
$$$$$$...or, as much as they can.
“I cannot imagine what they thought needed improving in the Heston version.”
Lessee now....
Consul Arius tells the beat drummer that he wants to go water skiing and reminds him that “ramming speed” just won’t cut it.
ALL of the chariots in the race are equipped with Vegematic chopping hubs.
The trampling of Messala is done in close up, slo-mo, one hoof stroke at a time with Messala’s screams slowed down too. Ben-hur takes one look and bursts out laughing while shouting “neener-neener-neener!!”.
Or did I miss something?
Agreed. The 1959 movie is truly an epic film from an era where that designation was not easily earned. Computer-generated detail and special effects may be impressive, but add nothing to the story or the acting.
Actually, Roma Downey and her husband produced it because they wanted to emphasize Christ in it. In the original Christ is just a Magic Negro who pops up at opportune times to save the day.