Overview"The Egyptian" is a 1954 historical drama film directed by Michael Curtiz, well-known for helming the classic "Casablanza". The film is based on the 1945 historic book of the exact same name by Mika Waltari. It was a joint American and British production released in Cinemascope. The dynamic cast consisted of Edmund Purdom, Bella Darvi, Jean Simmons, Victor Mature, and Gene Tierney.
PlotEmbed in the 18th dynasty of Egypt, the story follows the life of Sinuhe (Edmund Purdom), a doctor at the Pharaoh's court. After his adoptive parents expose that they found him in a basket on the Nile, Sinuhe feels separated from his fortunate life and begins a new life in the city.
Sinuhe quickly falls in love with a lovely pub maid, Merit (Jean Simmons). Nevertheless, he's likewise seduced and bewitched by a hedonistic Babylonian courtesan, Nefer (Bella Darvi), which leads him astray. In his pursuit of Nefer's attention and love, Sinuhe wastes his wealth and betrays his loved ones.
Character Development and ConflictAs the story progresses, Sinuhe descends into a morally compromised life and ends up being something of an anti-hero. His life is juxtaposed with his youth friend Horemheb (Victor Mature), who rises from his simple beginnings to end up being a triumphant military leader and ultimately, Pharaoh.
The individual conflicts of Sinuhe and the political instability of the kingdom parallel each other. Sinuhe experiences difficulty and turmoil due to his moral decrease and regrets, while Egypt deals with succession issues after the death of Pharaoh Akhnaton, leading to ideological struggles in between the old and new religious beliefs.
Resolution and ConclusionThe climax of "The Egyptian" sees Sinuhe saving Pharaoh Horemheb from a murder plot, however due to his previous treason, Sinuhe is exiled instead of executed. Sinuhe eventually discovers redemption when he satisfies a simple hermit who lives a simple life praising God. This conference motivates Sinuhe to lead a life of simpleness, penance, and peace.
Reflecting on his tumultuous life, an elderly Sinuhe concludes the film with an existential concept that life and civilization are transient, yet the human spirit's mission for reality and righteousness is eternal.
Production and Reception"The Egyptian" is remembered for its grand sets, gorgeous costumes, and for its magnificent musical arrangement by two veteran composers, Bernard Herrmann and Alfred Newman. The movie was among the most pricey films of the time and did well at package workplace, although it was not enough to cover its high produced expense.
Reception of the movie was blended, with critics applauding its scale, production worths, and efficiencies, while others critiqued its script and length. In spite of its lukewarm important reaction, the film is kept in mind for its exploration of philosophical and existential themes, which was uncommon for a historical impressive of its time.
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