Blu-ray Movie Reviews

Universally recognized among critics as a cinematic masterpiece, this unforgettable motion picture has also been recognized by The American Film Institute as one of the "Top Ten" epics of all time. From its Academy Award-winning director and revolutionary Oscar-winning special effects to its memorable music score and all star cast, "The Ten Commandments" presents the story of Moses in all of its stunning glory.

Restored epics typically delight on Blu-ray and The Ten Commandments is no exception. Paramount has split the film over two discs and the video transfer is sublime. The restored high definition video is nearly devoid of any wear and tear and showcases stunning fine object detail, dimension and color. The only footage that doesn’t stand up as well are the special effects, despite winning an Academy Award in 1956. The soundtrack fairs pretty well too but obviously doesn’t compare with modern day epics. Still, dialogue sounds excellent with great timbre and imaging is solid across the main soundstage. The score can sound a little tinny, but this is rarely distracting.

Extras include a feature commentary from an author who wrote about the production of the film along with a newsreel from back at its premiere and its theatrical trailers. There is a more complete boxset that offers quite a bit more in terms of features available as well.

The Ten Commandments has always been one of the great epics of yesteryear and the story and production still hold up pretty well today. The story of Moses is timeless and this Blu-ray does a magnificent job presenting it to a whole new generation. Highly recommended.