Based on an 1880 novel, Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ, the film was directed by Hollywood great William Wyler, and screenwriter Gore Vidal was one of many who took a pass at the screenplay.

It’s an over-the-top set piece, but a brutally effective one. It’s the chariot that awaits, of course, but the anticipated contest, coming after Ben-Hur’s ... the victory lap it wants ...

But why Ben-Hur, which with 11 Oscars for 1959’s ... in the galleys of that ship for several years, or ever last one lap in the chariot race. Toby Kebbell as Messala is now presented as Judah ...