15 Best Cecil B. DeMille Movies: The Showman of Hollywood Epics

Cecil B. DeMille was a pioneering filmmaker and director who helped shape the early years of Hollywood. He was known for his epic films, which often featured lavish sets, elaborate costumes, and a cast of thousands.

DeMille’s movies were known for their spectacle, their grandeur, and their ability to transport audiences to another time and place.

Here are three of the best Cecil B. DeMille films:

“The Ten Commandments” (1956): This is perhaps DeMille’s most famous film, and it remains a beloved classic to this day. The movie tells the story of Moses, the Jewish leader who led his people out of slavery in Egypt.

The film features incredible special effects, stunning visuals, and a star-studded cast that includes Charlton Heston, Yul Brynner, and Anne Baxter.

“Cleopatra” (1934): This epic film tells the story of the famous Egyptian queen, Cleopatra, and her doomed love affair with the Roman general, Marc Antony.

The movie features elaborate sets, lavish costumes, and a memorable performance by Claudette Colbert in the title role.

“The Greatest Show on Earth” (1952): This film tells the story of a traveling circus, and it features an all-star cast that includes Charlton Heston, Betty Hutton, and James Stewart.

The movie is known for its stunning visuals, its thrilling acrobatic stunts, and its ability to capture the magic and wonder of the circus.

Best Cecil B. DeMille Movies

Cecil B. DeMille’s films are known for their epic scope, their stunning visuals, and their ability to transport audiences to another time and place.

Whether it’s the story of Moses, the romance of Cleopatra, or the magic of the circus, DeMille’s films continue to captivate audiences to this day.

1. The Ten Commandments (1956)

“The Ten Commandments” is a 1956 epic religious drama film directed by Cecil B. DeMille.

The film tells the story of Moses, from his adoption by the Pharaoh’s daughter through his leadership of the Israelites and the delivery of the Ten Commandments.

Charlton Heston stars as Moses, and the film features a large ensemble cast, including Yul Brynner, Anne Baxter, Edward G. Robinson, and Yvonne De Carlo.

“The Ten Commandments” is widely regarded as a cinematic classic and is known for its lavish production values, which include elaborate sets and costumes, as well as groundbreaking special effects.

The film was a massive box office success and was nominated for seven Academy Awards, winning one for Best Visual Effects.

Beyond its spectacle, “The Ten Commandments” is also notable for its themes of faith, sacrifice, and divine justice.

The film explores the conflict between Pharaoh and Moses, as well as the struggles of the Israelites, who must learn to trust in their leader and in the power of God.

Overall, “The Ten Commandments” remains a beloved and iconic film, one that continues to captivate audiences with its spectacle and its timeless message.

It is a testament to the vision of its director and the enduring power of its story.

2. Samson and Delilah (1949)

“Samson and Delilah” is a 1949 biblical drama film directed by Cecil B. DeMille and starring Victor Mature and Hedy Lamarr in the title roles.

The film is based on the biblical story of Samson and Delilah, and follows the life of Samson, a strongman who is betrayed by his lover Delilah and captured by the Philistines.

Here are a few key points about the film:

Epic scope and scale: “Samson and Delilah” is a classic example of the epic biblical drama genre. The film features lavish sets and costumes, and its sprawling narrative spans multiple years and locations.

The film is notable for its grandeur and scope, and it captures the essence of the biblical story in a visually stunning way.

Strong performances: The film features strong performances from its lead actors, with Victor Mature delivering a convincing portrayal of the tragic hero Samson, and Hedy Lamarr bringing complexity and nuance to the character of Delilah.

The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, and their performances help to elevate the emotional stakes of the story.

Themes of love and betrayal: “Samson and Delilah” is a story about the power of love and the consequences of betrayal.

The film explores the complex relationship between Samson and Delilah, and the devastating impact of their actions on themselves and others.

The film’s themes are timeless and continue to resonate with audiences today.

Overall, “Samson and Delilah” is a classic biblical drama film that features epic scope and scale, strong performances, and timeless themes.

It is a must-see for fans of the genre and those interested in exploring the power of love and betrayal in storytelling.

No products found.

3. The Sign of the Cross (1932)

“The Sign of the Cross” is a 1932 epic historical drama film directed by Cecil B. DeMille. The film is set in ancient Rome during the reign of Emperor Nero and follows the trials and tribulations of a group of Christians.

The film explores themes of faith, sacrifice, and the struggle between good and evil.

One of the most striking characteristics of “The Sign of the Cross” is its lavish production design, which features elaborate sets and costumes that recreate the grandeur of ancient Rome.

The film’s impressive cast includes actors such as Fredric March, Claudette Colbert, Elissa Landi, and Charles Laughton, who deliver powerful performances that bring the characters to life.

The film is also notable for its portrayal of Christian persecution in ancient Rome, which was a controversial subject at the time of its release. “The Sign of the Cross” features several scenes of graphic violence and torture that were considered shocking by contemporary audiences.

Despite its controversial subject matter, “The Sign of the Cross” was a commercial and critical success, grossing over $2 million at the box office and earning four Academy Award nominations.

The film’s themes of faith and sacrifice have resonated with audiences for decades, and it remains a significant work in the history of American cinema.

4. Union Pacific (1939)

“Union Pacific” is a 1939 western film directed by Cecil B. DeMille and starring Barbara Stanwyck, Joel McCrea, and Akim Tamiroff.

The film tells the story of the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad, which connects the East Coast to the West Coast of the United States.

The film explores the struggles faced by the workers, engineers, and investors as they work to complete the monumental task of building the railroad.

Stanwyck plays Mollie Monahan, a saloon owner who becomes involved in the construction of the railroad and eventually falls in love with Jeff Butler, played by McCrea, the chief engineer of the project.

Tamiroff plays “the sidewinder,” a crooked businessman who attempts to sabotage the construction of the railroad for his own gain.

“Union Pacific” is notable for its epic scale and grand production values, which were typical of DeMille’s filmmaking style.

The film features impressive set pieces, such as the building of a bridge across a treacherous river and a dramatic train crash.

The film also boasts a strong cast, particularly Stanwyck, whose portrayal of a strong and independent businesswoman was ahead of its time.

Overall, “Union Pacific” is a classic western that is notable for its impressive scale and strong performances.

It remains a significant work of cinema today, and is a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood films.

5. The Greatest Show on Earth (1952)

“The Greatest Show on Earth” is a 1952 American drama film directed by Cecil B. DeMille. The film tells the story of a traveling circus and the lives and loves of the performers who work there.

The film stars Betty Hutton as Holly, a trapeze artist, and Charlton Heston as Brad, the circus manager.

The plot follows the circus as it travels from town to town, encountering various obstacles and setbacks along the way.

While the plot and characters are fictional, the film features real-life circus acts and performers, including the Ringling Bros.

and Barnum & Bailey Circus. The film’s impressive spectacle and special effects, along with its all-star cast, helped it become a box office hit and win two Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Despite its success, “The Greatest Show on Earth” has been criticized in some quarters for its sentimentality and melodrama.

However, it remains a classic of American cinema and a beloved example of the big-budget, all-star productions that were a hallmark of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

6. Cleopatra (1934)

“Cleopatra” is a historical drama film released in 1934, directed by Cecil B. DeMille. The movie is a retelling of the story of Cleopatra, the queen of Egypt, and her ill-fated romance with the Roman general, Mark Antony.

The film features stunning costumes, elaborate sets, and a star-studded cast, including Claudette Colbert in the title role, Warren William as Julius Caesar, and Henry Wilcoxon as Mark Antony.

The movie was a major success upon its release and is considered a classic of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

“Cleopatra” is notable for its opulent visuals and its ability to transport audiences to another time and place.

The film also features strong performances from its lead actors, particularly Claudette Colbert, who delivers a powerful and nuanced portrayal of the famous queen.

Overall, “Cleopatra” is a visually stunning and emotionally engaging film that explores themes of love, power, and the complexities of human relationships.

DeMille’s direction and the film’s lavish production values ensure that it remains a classic of Hollywood cinema.

7. Reap the Wild Wind (1942)

“Reap the Wild Wind” is a 1942 adventure film directed by Cecil B. DeMille and starring Ray Milland, John Wayne, and Paulette Goddard.

The film is set in the 1840s and tells the story of a group of salvagers who risk their lives to recover valuable cargo from shipwrecks along the Florida coast.

The main character, Stephen Tolliver (Milland), is a wealthy businessman who is attracted to Loxi Claiborne (Goddard), the daughter of a rival salvager.

Meanwhile, a conflict between Tolliver and Captain Jack Stuart (Wayne) escalates, leading to a dramatic confrontation.

“Reap the Wild Wind” is notable for its stunning visuals and elaborate set pieces, including a spectacular underwater sequence featuring real-life footage of a giant octopus.

The film also features strong performances from its cast, particularly from Wayne, who plays a complex and morally ambiguous character.

Beyond its action and romance, “Reap the Wild Wind” is also a commentary on the dangers of greed and the importance of working together in times of crisis.

The film is a testament to DeMille’s skill as a director and his ability to create memorable and exciting films that entertain and engage audiences.

Overall, “Reap the Wild Wind” is a classic adventure film that remains a beloved and entertaining example of Hollywood filmmaking at its best.

8. The Ten Commandments (1923)

“The Ten Commandments” is a 1923 silent epic film directed by Cecil B. DeMille, and is a retelling of the biblical story of Moses and the Exodus.

The film stars Theodore Roberts as Moses, with a large cast of actors portraying other characters from the biblical narrative.

Here are a few key points about the film:

Pioneering special effects: “The Ten Commandments” was notable for its pioneering use of special effects, including the creation of the parting of the Red Sea and the appearance of the God of Israel as a giant figure in the sky.

These effects were achieved using innovative techniques that were ahead of their time and continue to impress audiences today.

Spectacular sets and costumes: The film is known for its spectacular sets and costumes, which were designed to create an immersive and authentic biblical world.

The film features lavish and detailed sets that recreate ancient Egypt, as well as intricate and ornate costumes that add to the overall visual spectacle.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEfaXNwW7BM

Epic scale and ambition: “The Ten Commandments” is a massive and ambitious film, with a running time of over four hours and a large cast of actors.

The film tells a sweeping and complex story that spans multiple years and locations, and it captures the grandeur and scope of the biblical narrative in a truly epic way.

Overall, “The Ten Commandments” is a landmark of early cinema and a must-see for fans of biblical epics and classic cinema.

The film’s pioneering special effects, spectacular sets and costumes, and epic scale and ambition make it a classic of the genre and a testament to the power of cinema to tell timeless stories.

9. The King of Kings (1927)

“The King of Kings” is a 1927 silent film directed by Cecil B. DeMille. The film depicts the life of Jesus Christ from his birth to his resurrection, and it is considered one of the most epic and ambitious religious films ever made.

One of the most striking characteristics of “The King of Kings” is its visual spectacle. DeMille spared no expense in creating elaborate sets and costumes, including a massive recreation of the Temple of Jerusalem.

The film also features several large-scale crowd scenes, including the crucifixion of Jesus, that were considered groundbreaking for their time.

Another notable feature of the film is its use of intertitles to present biblical passages and quotations.

The intertitles were carefully crafted to convey a sense of solemnity and reverence, underscoring the film’s religious themes.

“The King of Kings” features an ensemble cast of both seasoned actors and newcomers, including H.B. Warner as Jesus, Dorothy Cumming as Mary, and Ernest Torrence as the Roman governor Pontius Pilate.

The performances are understated and naturalistic, emphasizing the humanity and humility of the characters.

Despite some initial controversy over its religious subject matter, “The King of Kings” was a commercial and critical success, grossing over $4 million at the box office and earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Director.

The film’s influence on subsequent biblical epics cannot be overstated, and it remains a landmark in the history of cinema.

10. The Story of Dr. Wassell (1944)

“The Story of Dr. Wassell” is a 1944 American war drama film directed by Cecil B. DeMille and starring Gary Cooper in the title role.

The film is based on the true story of Dr. Corydon M. Wassell, a naval doctor who risked his life to evacuate wounded soldiers from Java during World War II.

The film follows Dr. Wassell as he travels through Java, dodging enemy fire and risking his own safety to evacuate the wounded soldiers to safety.

Along the way, he forms relationships with the soldiers he is tasked with saving and struggles to maintain hope and optimism in the face of war and uncertainty.

“The Story of Dr. Wassell” is notable for its portrayal of the heroism and selflessness of medical personnel during wartime.

The film also explores themes of sacrifice and patriotism, as well as the importance of maintaining hope and perseverance in the face of adversity.

The film was a commercial and critical success, and is considered one of DeMille’s most accomplished works.

Cooper’s performance as Dr. Wassell was particularly praised, and the film’s depiction of the heroism of medical personnel during wartime continues to resonate with audiences today.

Overall, “The Story of Dr. Wassell” is a powerful and inspiring film that explores the bravery and selflessness of medical personnel during wartime.

Its themes of sacrifice and perseverance in the face of adversity make it a significant work of cinema, and a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood films.

No products found.

11. The Crusades (1935)

“The Crusades” is a 1935 American historical drama film directed by Cecil B. DeMille.

The film follows the story of Richard the Lionheart (played by Henry Wilcoxon), the King of England, who leads the Third Crusade to reclaim the Holy Land from Saladin (played by Ian Keith), the Muslim ruler of Jerusalem.

The film’s plot focuses on the conflicts and struggles that arise within Richard’s army, as well as his romance with Lady Alice (played by Loretta Young).

The film features lavish sets, costumes, and battle scenes, all shot on a grand scale typical of DeMille’s epics.

“The Crusades” was released during the height of the Great Depression, and was intended to provide audiences with an escape from their troubles.

It was also seen as a response to the rise of fascism and anti-Semitism in Europe, with the film promoting the virtues of freedom, democracy, and religious tolerance.

Despite its grandeur and spectacle, “The Crusades” received mixed reviews from critics and was not as commercially successful as DeMille’s other films.

However, it remains a significant work in the history of American cinema, and is noted for its portrayal of historical events, as well as its commentary on contemporary politics and social issues.

12. Unconquered (1947)

“Unconquered” is a historical drama film released in 1947, directed by Cecil B. DeMille. The movie is set in colonial America and follows the story of Abigail Hale, a brave and determined woman who is captured by the Seneca tribe and forced to marry their chief, Guyasuta.

The film stars Gary Cooper as Captain Christopher Holden, who is tasked with rescuing Abigail and leading a group of settlers to safety.

The movie features stunning cinematography, elaborate costumes, and breathtaking action sequences, as well as a strong and nuanced performance by lead actress Paulette Goddard.

“Unconquered” is notable for its epic scope and its ability to capture the beauty and brutality of life in colonial America.

The film explores themes of resilience, perseverance, and the power of human connection, and features a memorable cast of characters, including Abigail and Holden, who must overcome incredible odds to survive.

Overall, “Unconquered” is a thrilling and emotionally engaging film that showcases DeMille’s skills as a director and his ability to capture the grandeur and drama of historical events.

With its stunning visuals, memorable characters, and epic story, “Unconquered” remains a classic of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

13. The Plainsman (1936)

“The Plainsman” is a 1936 Western film directed by Cecil B. DeMille and starring Gary Cooper and Jean Arthur.

The film is loosely based on the life of Western legend Wild Bill Hickok and tells the story of his friendship with Buffalo Bill Cody (played by James Ellison) and their efforts to help a group of settlers threatened by a Sioux uprising.

The film also explores Hickok’s complicated relationships with Calamity Jane (Arthur) and the villainous Jack McCall (played by Charles Bickford).

“The Plainsman” is notable for its stunning cinematography and set design, which bring the American frontier to life in vivid detail.

The film also features strong performances from its cast, particularly from Cooper, who brings his trademark understated intensity to the role of Hickok.

Beyond its action and romance, “The Plainsman” is also a commentary on the importance of courage and honor in the face of danger and adversity.

The film portrays the settlers as resourceful and determined, despite their vulnerability, and celebrates the bravery of the men and women who helped to tame the Wild West.

Overall, “The Plainsman” is a classic Western that remains a beloved and entertaining example of Hollywood filmmaking at its best.

It is a testament to DeMille’s skill as a director and his ability to create memorable and exciting films that entertain and inspire audiences.

14. Male and Female (1919)

“Male and Female” is a 1919 silent film directed by Cecil B. DeMille, and is a romantic drama that explores the complexities of class and gender in early 20th century society.

The film stars Gloria Swanson, Thomas Meighan, and Theodore Roberts, among others.

Here are a few key points about the film:

Exploration of class and gender roles: “Male and Female” is notable for its exploration of the social and gender roles of the time.

The film tells the story of a wealthy family and their servants who are stranded on a desert island, and it explores the shifting power dynamics and relationships that emerge as they struggle to survive.

The film’s exploration of class and gender roles is complex and nuanced, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into the social mores of the early 20th century.

Spectacular set design: The film features spectacular set design and production values, including intricate and ornate sets that recreate the opulence of the wealthy family’s home, as well as the stark and inhospitable landscape of the desert island.

The film’s sets and production values were considered groundbreaking at the time, and they continue to impress audiences today.

Overall, “Male and Female” is a classic of early cinema that explores the complexities of class and gender in early 20th century society.

The film’s spectacular set design, strong performances, and nuanced exploration of social and gender roles make it a must-see for fans of classic cinema and those interested in the cultural and historical context of the time.

15. The Cheat (1915)

“The Cheat” is a 1915 silent film directed by Cecil B. DeMille. The film tells the story of a wealthy woman named Edith Hardy, played by Fannie Ward, who is driven to embezzlement and adultery in order to maintain her lavish lifestyle.

One of the most notable characteristics of “The Cheat” is its exploration of taboo themes for its time, including sexual desire and financial corruption.

The film’s provocative subject matter and intense emotional content caused a sensation upon its release and cemented DeMille’s reputation as a master of melodrama.

Another significant feature of “The Cheat” is its striking visual style, which is characterized by the use of shadows and chiaroscuro lighting to create a sense of psychological tension and moral ambiguity.

The film’s cinematography was highly innovative for its time, and it influenced the development of the film noir genre in the 1940s and 1950s.

“The Cheat” also features strong performances from its cast, particularly Fannie Ward, who gives a powerful portrayal of a woman struggling to maintain her dignity and honor in the face of overwhelming temptation.

Overall, “The Cheat” is a landmark film in the history of American cinema, both for its artistic innovations and its daring exploration of taboo themes. It remains a powerful and thought-provoking work more than a century after its initial release.

3 Characteristics of Cecil B. DeMille Films

Here are three characteristics of Cecil B. DeMille films:

Epic scale: DeMille’s films were known for their grandiose scale, with elaborate sets, costumes, and special effects that created a sense of spectacle and grandeur.

DeMille’s films often tackled large themes and historical events, such as the construction of the transcontinental railroad in “Union Pacific” and the Ten Commandments in “The Ten Commandments,” which lent themselves to the epic scale of his productions.

Strong moral and religious themes: Many of DeMille’s films dealt with moral and religious themes, particularly those related to the Judeo-Christian tradition.

For example, “The Ten Commandments” is a retelling of the biblical story of Moses, while “Samson and Delilah” explores the dangers of temptation and betrayal.

These themes often served as a moral compass for DeMille’s films, and were used to explore larger societal issues.

Star power: DeMille worked with some of the biggest stars of his time, including Charlton Heston, Gary Cooper, and Barbara Stanwyck.

The actors in DeMille’s films were often cast in larger-than-life roles, which allowed them to showcase their talent and charisma.

DeMille was known for his ability to direct and get the most out of his actors, and many of his films featured iconic performances that have stood the test of time.

Overall, DeMille’s films were characterized by their epic scale, strong moral and religious themes, and star power.

His films were often grand and ambitious, and were known for their ability to captivate audiences with their spectacle and drama. If you are a fan of classic Hollywood films, DeMille’s work is definitely worth checking out.

3 Reasons Why You Should Watch Cecil B. DeMille Films

Cecil B. DeMille was one of the most influential and successful directors of Hollywood’s Golden Age, with a career that spanned over five decades. Here are three reasons why you should watch his films:

Epic spectacle: DeMille was famous for his grandiose, larger-than-life productions, which featured opulent sets, elaborate costumes, and large-scale action sequences.

His films were designed to dazzle and awe audiences, and many of them are still considered landmarks of visual spectacle in the history of cinema.

If you love films that transport you to another world and leave you breathless with their grandeur, DeMille’s films are definitely worth watching.

Timeless themes: DeMille’s films often dealt with universal themes and issues that are still relevant today. He explored topics such as power, ambition, greed, and morality, and his films often had a moral or social message.

While his films were often set in historical or biblical contexts, their themes were applicable to contemporary society, and they still resonate with modern audiences.

Hollywood history: DeMille was a pioneer of the film industry and played a major role in shaping Hollywood’s Golden Age.

His films were instrumental in establishing the studio system and the star system, and he helped turn the film industry into a major cultural force.

By watching DeMille’s films, you can get a glimpse of Hollywood’s past and the history of American cinema, and appreciate the innovations and techniques that paved the way for the films of today.

Best Cecil B. DeMille Films – Wrapping Up

Cecil B. DeMille was a legendary filmmaker who left an indelible mark on Hollywood’s Golden Age. His films were known for their grandeur, their spectacle, and their ability to transport audiences to another time and place.

Here are three of the best Cecil B. DeMille films, which showcase his skills as a director and his ability to capture the grandeur and drama of historical events:

“The Ten Commandments” (1956): This epic film tells the story of Moses and his quest to lead the Jewish people out of slavery in Egypt.

The movie features incredible special effects, lavish sets, and a star-studded cast that includes Charlton Heston, Yul Brynner, and Anne Baxter.

“Cleopatra” (1934): This historical drama tells the story of the famous Egyptian queen and her ill-fated romance with the Roman general, Mark Antony. The movie features stunning costumes, elaborate sets, and a powerful performance by Claudette Colbert in the title role.

“Unconquered” (1947): This historical drama is set in colonial America and tells the story of a group of settlers who must fight for their survival against overwhelming odds.

The film features breathtaking action sequences, stunning cinematography, and a memorable performance by Paulette Goddard in the lead role.

Overall, Cecil B. DeMille’s films continue to captivate audiences to this day, and his legacy as a pioneer of Hollywood cinema remains secure.

His films are a testament to the power of storytelling, and to the ability of cinema to transport us to another time and place.