Ben-Hur (2016)

I have not seen this movie yet. Question: How in the world can you even compete with the 1959 gem with all the seasoned actors, story writers, director, musical scores and depth or commitment to the project itself when choosing this movie to remake? What was anyone thinking? I read the book which was not very inviting but full of here & there bits and pieces but having first seen the 1959 made it easier and memorable to do. One of the strengths of the first movie was not focusing on Christ himself but on the story and events He brought about. After all, the movie is about Ben Hur. In this remake, they give Jesus a starring role, they tell the same story with minor changes, reproduce a classic race and want us to fall under the spell of the concept. But that is just the point. The concept has its origins in the 1959 movie. How do we know this? Ask anyone who has seen it how many times did they watch it again & again? That should tell you that it is a classic, must see top of the line high bar movie with unforgettable scenes. Today, Hollywood may have the words but not the music. They have the money but not the talent and if they would concentrate on quality instead of rate of return, they would get both. I will see this movie because you can't go wrong in the story which captures ones imagination for it is down to earth, emotional pulls and pushes. But looking forward to seeing it? No, you will have to try harder Hollywood to get that. For you first timers, see the 1959 version first then go see this or read the book. Then, you will know what I know and be happy and content.