Ben-Hur (1959) ft. Peterson W. Hill and Kristin Battestella

Dana and Tom with returning guest, Peterson W. Hill (Co-Host of the War Starts at Midnight podcast), and new guest, Kristin Battestella (Critic for In Session Film, Search Magazine, and Keith Loves Movies) discuss the epic Best Picture Winner Ben-Hur (1959) for its 65th anniversary: directed by William Wyler, written by Karl Tunberg, music by Miklos Rozsa, starring Charleton Heston, Jack Hawkins, Haya Harareet, and Stephen Boyd.Plot Summary: In an ancient world, nobleman Judah Ben-Hur is betrayed by his friend Messala, a Roman officer, and is cast into slavery. Judah endures brutal hardships, fueled by a burning desire for vengeance. He rises through sheer will and becomes a skilled charioteer, aided by Sheik Ilderim and his magnificent horses.In a climactic race, Judah defeats Messala, reclaiming his honor. Along his journey, he encounters the Nazarene, whose teachings of love and forgiveness transform Judah’s quest from one of retribution to spiritual awakening. Thus, Judah’s tale becomes a timeless legend of courage, redemption, and grace.Chapters:00:00 Welcome and Guest Introductions01:45 Getting to Know - Kristin Battestella04:19 Cast and Recognition for Ben-Hur08:11 Relationship(s) with Ben-Hur17:20 What is Ben-Hur About?25:29 Oscar Legacy and Cultural Impact29:27 Plot Summary for Ben-Hur30:29 Did You Know?32:40 First Break33:28 What's Up with Kristin and Peterson35:02 Ask Dana Anything36:47 Best Performance(s)53:38 Best/Favorite/Indelible Scene(s)01:02:27 Second Break01:03:21 In Memoriam01:04:48 Best/Funniest Lines01:08:11 The Stanley Rubric - Legacy01:16:57 The Stanley Rubric - Impact/Significance01:19:34 The Stanley Rubric - Novelty01:22:45 The Stanley Rubric - Classicness01:28:15 The Stanley Rubric - Rewatchability01:38:07 The Stanley Rubric - Audience Score and Final Total01:39:22 Remaining Questions for Ben-Hur01:46:50 Thank You to Our Guests01:51:18 CreditsYou can also get this episode in full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/c99i7UBy9KoYou can now follow us on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, or TikTok (@gmoatpodcast).For more on the episode, go to: https://www.ronnyduncanstudios.com/post/ben-hur-1959-ft-peterson-w-hill-and-kristin-battestellaFor the entire rankings list so far, go to: https://www.ronnyduncanstudios.com//post/greatest-movie-of-all-time-listKeywords:Ben-Hur, film analysis, cinematic techniques, character analysis, cultural impact, rewatchability, legacy, themes, performances, directionRonny Duncan Studios