Ben-Hur (1959) is an American epic historical drama directed by William Wyler and starring Charlton Heston. Set in the Roman Empire, the film follows Judah Ben-Hur, a Jewish nobleman betrayed by his childhood friend and forced into slavery, whose life becomes defined by suffering, revenge, and redemption. Famous for its monumental chariot race and large-scale spectacle, the film combines personal drama with religious and historical themes. Ben-Hur won the Academy Award for Best Picture, along with a record-setting eleven Oscars. Från IMDB: A Jewish prince is betrayed and sent into slavery by a Roman friend in 1st-century Jerusalem, but its not long before he regains his freedom and comes back for revenge.