The Bible -
In The Beginning (1966)
religious epic
directed
by : John Huston
featuring
: Michael Parks - Ulla Bergyd - Richard Harris - John Huston - Stephen
Boyd
running
time : 3 hours
The Bible was intended by producer
Dino
De Laurentis as the first in a series of films which would eventually cover
the Old and New Testament in their entireties. The many directors engaged
for this project dropped out one by one, leaving only the adventurous
John
Huston. As a result, this film was the first and last in the series; its
subtitle
In The Beginning refers to the fact that only the first 22 chapters
of Genesis ended up on film. After creation, we are introduced to the buff-naked
Adam and Eve (Michael Parks and Ulla Bergyd), whose fall from grace segues
into the Cain and Abel story. Next on the docket is the story of Noah,
played by director Huston, who'd originally wanted Charlie Chaplin for
the role. Abraham's sacrifice is then dramatized, with
George C.Scott as
the beleaguered protagonist. In quick succession, we are offered the Tower
of Babel, the defiance of Nimrod and Sodom and Gomorroh. Tying together
these Old Testament episodes is Peter O'Toole as three angels; Ava Gardner
also shows up in the role of Sarah.