Prince of Egypt (Cert. U) Dreamworks Studio
It is refreshing to see 20th-century Hollywood returning to the Bible to tell a tale of liberation from slavery to freedom. Spielberg's latest film, based on the story of Moses and the Exodus, is a powerful and spectacular animation which is well worth a visit to the cinema, with or without children.
Allowing for artistic licence, it follows the biblical narrative and even informs the viewers helpfully in which Bible book the story can be found. God's name is mentioned frequently and it is clear that Moses' power comes from him. The message is that anything is possible if you believe. In what or whom, however, is not made entirely clear - or at least as clear as it could be.
The film's biggest success is the strength with which the familiar tale is revitalised. The story follows the relationship between Moses and his 'brother', Rameses, and brings to life the fluctuating and intense emotions of the characters. I found this particularly helpful, as one who knows the unembellished biblical narrative. How did Moses feel on discovering his Israelite origins? What was it like to be standing in water which turned to blood? What was Pharaoh's reaction to the final plague? How did it actually feel to cross the Red Sea pursued by Egyptian soldiers? The humanity of such scenes is interwoven with the awareness of a mighty God acting to free his people.
