Rating: G
Genre:
Epic
Theatrical Release: 10/14/1966(Italy)
Release Date: 02/19/2002
SubTitles: English/Espanol
Dubbed: English/French
Sound: DD2/DD1
Run Time: 172 Minutes
Flags: Suitable for Children
Distributor/Studio: 20th Century Fox
The Bible was intended by producer
Dino De Laurentiis as the first in a series of films which would eventually cover the Old and New Testament in their entireties. The many directors engaged for this project dropped out one by one, leaving only the adventurous
John Huston. As a result, this film was the first and last in the series; its subtitle
In the Beginning refers to the fact that only the first 22 chapters of Genesis ended up on film. After creation, we are introduced to the buff-naked
Adam and
Eve (
Michael Parks and
Ulla Bergyd), whose fall from grace segues into the
Cain and
Abel story. Next on the docket is the story of
Noah, played by director
Huston, who'd originally wanted
Charlie Chaplin for the role.
Abraham's sacrifice is then dramatized, with
George C. Scott as the beleaguered protagonist. In quick succession, we are offered the Tower of Babel, the defiance of
Nimrod, and
Sodom and
Gomorroh. Tying together these Old Testament episodes is
Peter O'Toole as three angels;
Ava Gardner also shows up in the role of
Sarah.
~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide