Review of Hollywood and the Bible

[Etini Willie]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Hollywood and the Bible" by Benjamin Sambil.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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The Guinness Book of World Records declares that the Bible is the highest selling book in history with an estimated 5 billion copies sold and distributed. Aside from being the Holy Book of Christianity, it contains captivating stories that have didacticism and moral lessons that can better society. In this book, Hollywood and the Bible,the author, Benjamin Sambul runs a review of some Hollywood block-buster movies whose plots were adapted from Biblical stories. The author runs a detailed review of some Biblically themed Hollywood movies like The Bible (In the Beginning), 1966, The Story of Jacob and Joseph, 1974, The Ten Commandments, 1956, The Story of Ruth, 1960 and David and Bathsheba, 1951. The writer in running the reviews of these movies examines the positives and the not too positive parts of the movies. This book is like re-reading the Bible, this time with a touch of artistry to it.

I personally have not seen or heard about any of the movies reviewed in this book but Benjamin took me through an interesting journey narrating the plots of these movies. First thing I admire in this book is the incredible narrating ability of the author. The writer does not just narrate movies but takes the reader on a mental journey through these events as they unfold. Even without seeing the movie, the reader can almost feel himself crossing the red sea with the Israelites or being part of the creation story. Reading the reviews of these movies, one can't just help but get awestruck at the creativity of the directors of these movies. I was completely held spell-bound by the review of The Ten Commandments, 1956 and I instantly fell in love with the movie even without seeing it. The ability of the director of that movie as reviewed in this book to create suspense and artistry without losing the core Biblical essence and message of the events is worthy of admiration.

The only slight down vote for this book is that it is based on the Bible which adherents of other religions might not find themselves comfortable with. But an open-minded approach to reading this book would reveal artistry and literary capacity beyond religious creed.

This beautiful book has given me exposure to blockbuster movies that I never knew existed. I will strive to see every single one of these movies as soon as possible. I rate the book 4 out of 4 stars. The book was professionally edited as I could not find any grammatical errors or typos in the course of reading the book.

I recommend this book for Christians all over the world. The stories featured in the book are core Biblical messages with a touch of artistry. Hence, it would be useful in building our faith. I also recommend this book for people in the movie industry as the book could give them other perspectives and approaches on movie production and film making.

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Hollywood and the Bible
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[Iboro Donald]

I love the fact that Christians have displayed the levels of creativity I am reading in this review. It is encouraging. I am going to see all the movies mentioned in this review. Thanks to the reviewer for doing justice to the book.