WHAT WENT WRONG

Ben-Hur (1959)

May 26, 2025
Discover the behind-the-scenes drama of the iconic chariot race in the monumental film from 1959. Delve into the controversial contributions of Gore Vidal and how a struggling studio transformed a nearly blasphemous book into a cinematic masterpiece. Learn about the life of General Lewis Wallace and the film's groundbreaking production techniques that set new standards for epic storytelling. Join the hosts as they reflect on the film's legacy and its impact on Hollywood, all while navigating a turbulent era for the industry.
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INSIGHT

MGM's Star-Powered Dominance

  • MGM was once the powerhouse of Hollywood, known as the "Tiffany of the Hollywood system."
  • The studio system built films around stars, helping MGM survive early financial crises with its star vehicles.
INSIGHT

TV Shook Up Hollywood

  • Television's rapid rise in the 1950s drastically decreased movie theater attendance.
  • Studios responded by creating spectacles with big stars and new tech that TV couldn't match.
INSIGHT

Epics Exploit Biblical IP

  • Biblical and sword-and-sandal epics thrived as studios sought proven story IPs.
  • These epics allowed male stars to showcase physicality without overt sexuality while attracting broad audiences.
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