Watch Exodus

Exodus is a critically acclaimed epic film released in 1960, directed by Otto Preminger and starring Paul Newman, Eva Marie Saint, and Ralph Richardson. The film is based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Leon Uris and was written by Dalton Trumbo, a well-known screenwriter who had been blacklisted during the McCarthy era.

The story is set in 1947, just after the end of World War II, when thousands of Jewish refugees from Europe are attempting to emigrate to Palestine, then a British Mandate. The film follows Ari Ben Canaan (Paul Newman), a Jewish resistance fighter who leads a group of survivors from a concentration camp to Palestine. Once there, they join the Irgun, a group of Jewish militants who are fighting against British rule and Arab opposition to create the state of Israel.

Ari falls in love with a young American nurse named Kitty Fremont (Eva Marie Saint), who works with the refugees. The two quickly become involved in a passionate romance, but their relationship is complicated by their differing views on the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Meanwhile, a British officer named General Sutherland (Ralph Richardson) leads a crackdown against the Jewish insurgents, using brutal tactics to maintain order. Tensions escalate, and violence between Jews and Arabs increases, leading up to the historic United Nations vote to partition Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states.

Exodus features an outstanding ensemble cast, with Newman delivering a standout performance as the ruggedly handsome, charismatic Ari. Saint is equally impressive as his love interest, Kitty Fremont, bringing a quiet grace and depth to her role. Richardson provides a commanding presence as the hard-nosed British general, torn between his duty to his country and his sympathy for the plight of the Jewish refugees.

The film is notable for its sweeping cinematography, capturing the dusty landscapes of Palestine and the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The dramatic score by Ernest Gold also adds to the emotional impact of the story, especially in scenes depicting the intense conflicts between Jews and Arabs.

Despite its length (Exodus runs for over three hours), the film never drags, and its blend of action, romance, and political intrigue keeps viewers engaged throughout. It also serves as a powerful tribute to the struggles of the Jewish people in the aftermath of World War II, and their determination to create a homeland in Palestine.

Overall, Exodus is a must-see classic of American cinema, combining top-notch acting, direction, and cinematography with a gripping story that still resonates today. Whether you're a fan of epic dramas or historical films, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this timeless masterpiece.

Exodus is a 1960 drama with a runtime of 3 hours and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7 and a MetaScore of 70.