The Ten Commandments (1956), G, 3 hr 51 min

Overview

The Ten Commandments (1956) is a classic biblical epic that tells the story of Moses—from being raised as an Egyptian prince to leading the Israelites out of slavery. Charlton Heston shines as Moses, and Yul Brynner makes a strong Pharaoh Rameses. Directed by Cecil B. DeMille, it’s a huge, ambitious film packed with spectacle, drama, and a respectful tone about faith and God’s law. It’s famous for its impressive special effects and memorable performances and is still a beloved Easter TV tradition.

While the acting and pacing feel a bit old-fashioned compared to today’s movies, the core message about God’s power and deliverance is timeless. Overall, it’s a visually stunning and spiritually rich film with strong moral themes.

Family Friendliness

The Ten Commandments is a pretty family-friendly movie, especially for a film that’s more than half a century old. It’s rated G by today’s standards, so no worrying about bad language or inappropriate scenes.

That said, it’s a long movie—like, over three and a half hours—so younger kids might get restless. Plus, there are some pretty intense moments, like the plagues and the death of the firstborn. While it’s not graphic, some of those scenes can be a little scary or emotional for little ones.

There’s also a bit of romance, but it’s very mild and tasteful. The whole movie is packed with strong spiritual messages about faith, obedience, and freedom, which is really cool to see handled respectfully.

Overall, it’s a solid pick for families with older kids and teens who can sit through the length and handle the heavier parts. For younger kids, parents might want to watch together and be ready to explain or skip the scarier bits.

Notable Scenes

1. Moses in the Basket

This is how it all begins—baby Moses gently floating down the Nile in a basket. Pharaoh’s daughter discovers him and, unknowingly, sets God’s bigger plan in motion. It's tender, quiet, and symbolic.

2. Burning Bush Scene

This one’s a showstopper. Moses comes face-to-flame with God Himself on Mount Horeb. The glowing bush that’s not consumed, the booming voice, Moses barefoot on holy ground—it’s both visually and spiritually powerful.

3. Moses Confronts Pharaoh

“Let my people go!” Charlton Heston’s delivery is iconic. It kicks off the spiritual showdown between Moses and Rameses, and it’s packed with tension and divine authority.

4. The Ten Plagues of Egypt

This section takes a darker turn—plagues of blood, frogs, fire from the sky, and finally, the gut-wrenching death of Egypt’s firstborns. The film pulls no punches, and the drama hits hard.

5. The First Passover

A deeply emotional and sacred moment. As the Israelites mark their doors, the spirit of death passes over them. It’s quiet, reverent, and haunting in the best way—really brings the weight of faith and obedience to life.

6. The Exodus Begins

Freedom at last! The people of Israel leave Egypt en masse, and the sweeping shots of thousands of extras walking into the wilderness are just cinematic magic.

7. Parting of the Red Sea

Probably the most famous scene. That wall of water still holds up decades later—it’s thrilling and miraculous. The drama, the music, the timing—it’s classic movie history.

8. Golden Calf Idolatry

Things go off the rails while Moses is on the mountain. The people start partying, worshiping a golden calf, and totally forget God’s deliverance. Moses returns, furious, and smashes the tablets. It’s chaotic and convicting.

9. Receiving the Ten Commandments

Back on Sinai, God gives Moses the commandments in a thunderstorm of divine glory. Fire, smoke, lightning—this is Old Testament spectacle at its best.

10. Final Scene

An older, wiser Moses looks out at the Promised Land, knowing he won’t enter it. It’s a quiet, dignified close to a long journey, as he passes the torch to Joshua. A perfect, peaceful sendoff.

Main Cast

Charlton Heston – Moses

Yul Brynner – Rameses II

Anne Baxter – Nefretiri

Edward G. Robinson – Dathan

Yvonne De Carlo – Sephora

Debra Paget – Lilia

John Derek – Joshua

Cedric Hardwicke – Seti I

Critics’ Ratings

My Rating: 9/10

IMDb: 7.9/10

Rotten Tomatoes: 86% (Critics), 85% (Audience)

Metacritic: Not available due to age of release

Dove Foundation: Approved for All Ages

Common Sense Media: Recommended for 10+