The epic story of Moses is brought back to life as Exodus: Gods and Kings opens in Australia today, ready to tug heartstrings and impress viewers with 3D visualization of the seven deadly plagues courtesy of director Ridley Scott.
Not since the movie Noah has a Biblical blockbuster generated more buzz and excitement than Exodus: Gods and Kings, which stars Christian Bale as Moses and Joel Edgerton as Ramses. But unlike the former, will this movie stay true to the Bible or pave its own path?
Despite being raised as an Egyptian, Moses had difficulty accepting their faith and practices. He retraces his Hebrew roots and goes against Pharoah Ramses - someone he grew up with - and led thousands of Hebrew slaves to freedom. His defiance towards Egyptians heralded the seven deadly plagues, which director Scott vividly reimagines in this movie.
Scott, of Gladiator and Prometheus fame, has chosen to provide somewhat logical explanations to the deadly plagues, which might cause discontent for some viewers who would like to think of the plagues pure acts of miracles by God.
Other controversies have followed Exodus: Gods and Kings leading to its release date, especially since lead actor Bale described Moses as "very troubled" and "schizophrenic", even going as far as saying Noah is "one of the most barbaric individuals I ever read about in my life."
These controversies could only boost movie ratings or pull back viewers. Either way, only movie ticket sales will soon reveal if people deem this Biblical blockbuster worthy of their time and money.