Release Date: March 29, 2011
Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 203 minutes
The stories were told through the generations, stories of what had happened and what was to come. The best stories there ever were, Charlton Heston says about these Biblical accounts. Academy Award winner Heston (Best Actor for 1959s Ben-Hur) takes viewers to authentic Holy Land locales, drawing on the King James text and his remarkable storytelling skills to narrate these inspiring tales rooted in faith.
Charlton Heston Presents: The Bible is a very resourceful learning tool and perfect Easter gift for those interested in learning more about the Holy Land and its religious history through the bible. Many people may remember this special originally airing on television in the late 90s. For those who own the VHS or have yet to purchase the original DVD collection, this re-release is for you!
Lots of historical facts and word origins are shared as well as detailed explanations of passages from the bible. The late Charlton Heston (The Ten Commandments) goes back and forth between sharing all of this and reading passages from both the Old and New Testament at a podium. While all of this is taking place, various illustrations of the Holy Land as well as old video footage is shown in addition to Heston giving somewhat of a tour of the Holy Land’s historical marks. There are no re-enactments by professional actors on these DVDs… it’s strictly good storytelling.
The Bible is explored through the King James version in four parts, “Genesis,” “The Story of Moses,” “Jesus of Nazareth” and “The Passion.” Needless to say, this DVD does not cover everything but is a good starting point and overall look at the more well known stories. While resourceful, this may not be the most exciting material, especially for younger viewers. Heston is a great storyteller and as animated as he can be but he still has somewhat of a monotone and soothing voice and the documentary moves at a slow pace as well… not to mention the aged footage (from 1992) that may not win over the young crowd.
Still, this collection definitely can be appreciated, even for history buffs that are not necessarily religious. There is a lot to learn from these DVDs and there is a lot of passion behind the words that are spoken. It’s easy to get caught up in a volume, but take your time getting through the volume because there’s a lot to absorb.
Bonus Feature:
There is one 28 minute behind the scenes featurette that is featured on every disc. The featurette gives an in depth look at how this piece of work came together and also includes interviews with the producer and directors. If you’ve made it through all four volumes, this featurette is a sweet treat.
Own Charlton Heston Presents: The Bible on DVD today.
Also now available on Blu-Ray is King of Kings…
Release Date: March 29, 2011
Rating: PG-13
Running Time: 171 minutes
Starring: Jeffrey Hunter, Siobhan McKenna, Hurd Hatfield, Ron Randell, Viveca Lindfors
Bonus Features:
* Vintage Featurette, “The Camera’s Windoe of the World”
* Premiere Newsreels
Own King of Kings on Blu-ray today.