Pharaoh

Pharaoh, a Polish historical drama, is a cinematic masterpiece released in 1966, directed by notable director Jerzy Kawalerowicz and starring an array of talented actors such as Jerzy Zelnik, Wieslawa Mazurkiewicz, and Barbara Brylska. Adapted from Bolesław Prus's 1895 historical novel of the same title, Pharaoh tells the tale of political struggle, power play, and the herculean responsibility of leadership in Ancient Egypt.

Jerzy Zelnik leads the film as the young and ambition-fueled Pharaoh Ramses XIII. Ramses must wrestle with the burden of leadership while confronting the immutable traditions of his kingdom and the evolving world outside. Underneath his golden crown and in the heart of the pyramids, he's destined to rule; Ramses grapples with existential questions about his role as ruler, his country's future, and the price of progress. His struggle against the powerful conservative priestly class, who remain steady in their old ways and despise his approach towards modernization, drives the story forward.

While the intricate tale of Ramses is heart-wrenching, the beauty and authenticity of the movie lie comically in its depictions of the age-old customs, religion, society, economy, and military affairs of Ancient Egypt. The director did not shy away from portraying vivid scenes of Egyptian life, encompassing the grandeur of the Pharaoh's palace, the mystique of the temples, and the gaping contrast between the opulence of the royalty and the poverty of the slaves.

Wieslawa Mazurkiewicz gives a powerful performance as the lead priest and the Pharaoh's primary antagonist. With his hypnotic control over the masses and his strict adherence to the old ways, his character strikes a hard contrast to the young King Ramses while also mirroring the power struggle that transcends time and place.

The intriguing character Sarah, played by Barbara Brylska, adds a layer of emotional depth and romantic entanglement to the narrative. Her role represents the love and personal choices that Pharaoh must reconcile with his royal duties and the expectations of his position. The multifaceted characters paint a holistic picture of ancient society and its machinations, intertwining the personal with the political.

The film is a masterclass in set design and costuming, immersing viewers into the heart of ancient Egypt. Filmed over two years in Uzbekistan and the Barrandov Studios in Prague because of their similar landscapes to Egypt, the dry, sandy backdrop and vast landscapes effectively evoke the era's barren yet mystifying charm. Intricate replicas of Sphinxes, obelisks, and pyramids combined with thousands of extras make for a visually stunning and grand portrayal of the Egyptian civilization in its full glory.

Moreover, the cinematography is commendable, with striking visuals that pair well with the film's thematic undertones. Aleksei Rodionov's camerawork, combined with meticulous attention to detail in the narrative's historicity, ensures that every scene, whether it be of the grandeur of the Pharaoh's throne or the intricacies of a temple ritual, is saturated with authenticity and rich in symbolism.

Furthermore, the film's score, composed by Adam Walaciński, is another significant facet. The music beautifully complements the on-screen visuals and narrative, often accentuating poignant moments of high drama, excitement, and tender emotion.

Pharaoh is not a typical action-packed historical saga. Instead, it is a contemplative piece that dives deeper into the philosophical and political aspects of leadership and societal frameworks. It is a poetic exploration of the struggle between tradition and progress, freedom and docility, personal desire, and public duty, painting a poignant picture of the mere mortal behind the god-like façade of a Pharaoh. It is a must-watch for those who appreciate historical dramas that engage in intellectual and emotional reflection.

In conclusion, Pharaoh is a thoughtful and artistic historical drama that wins over its audience through its seamless blending of realistic portrayal, stunning visuals, stirring performances, and thematic depth. Despite the five decades since its release, the film remains relevant, illuminating the timeless nature of histoire and the enduring intrigue of ancient Egypt.