MovieChat Forums > The Greatest Story Ever Told (1965) Discussion > nativity scenes

nativity scenes

posted 15 years ago by bastasch8647
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When I viewed the DVD many years after seeing the film in theaters I was struck by the silence of the nativity scenes. In contrast to Miklos Rosza's blaring nativity music in Ben-Hur, Alfred Newman's music is understated and well matches the beauty of the visuals. I found the "silent night feel", and the combination of music and images with gently done, subtle editing to be almost suggestive of hypnotic induction, pulling the viewer into a strange but familiar landscape. Nicely done indeed.

[–] life4all 15 years ago

bastasch, it does my soul good to read comments about the beauty of the nativity on Christmas Eve. God knows we all need more peace in our lives!

I'll have to dust off my Ben-Hur dvd to see the distinction. I do believe there was almost no dialog in the Ben-Hur nativity and thought the 3 Wise men were rather "classy" in their portrayal. I think my favorite wise men adaptation was from Zeffirelli’s "Jesus of Nazareth" (which I consider the be the best "Jesus" film adaptation ever made). I particularly appreciated the dialog (Fernando Rey/James Earl Jones/Donald Pleasence) regarding "a new star" upon the horizon.

May the peace of understanding dwell with thee

[–] bastasch8647 15 years ago

life4all, glad you liked my comments... peace is indeed a scarce commodity. Hope you enjoy the rest of the Christmas season and have a great new year.