I’m pleased and surprised to see Dreamworks taking on a project the likes of Prince of Egypt. It’s certainly a risk on many fronts, but it pays off. It’s fun and child-friendly while it’s smart and careful about details. Furthermore, it’s light and entertaining while never losing sight of its spiritual themes. And for all its religiosity, it keeps clear of controversy. This story has been told for as many audiences as possible.

We are quickly introduced to Moses (Val Kilmer), with his brother, Ramses (Ralph Fiennes), both young, playful princes of Egypt. When moses is made aware of his true identity by his siblings Miriam (Sandra Bullock) and Aaron (Jeff Goldblum), he forsakes his egyption life and goes out among the Hebrews, where he marries Tzipporah (Michelle Pfeiffer).

Egypt’s approach toward God is interesting. It’s ethereal yet personal, familiar yet respectful. A wispy sort of light represents both God and the destroying angel at the Passover. And Moses’ conversion is appropriately convincing.

After being told to free the people, Moses returns to earth to place plagues on the Pharaoh until he’s granted liberty for his people. The people escape and pass through a wonderfully animated parting the red sea. With water shooting off in all directions, the fantastic animation highlights the greatest miracle.

I also appreciate the music. In addition to a strong score, the frequent songs are both enjoyable and forward the narrative significantly. Though Steve Martin and Martin Short feel slightly out of place in their roles, the cast is strong and the voices are well done.

I’d like to see more religious film made at the quality level of Prince of Egypt. Prince of Egypt manages to tell its story in a fun but serious way while seriously hitting on the importance of its subject matter. Dreamworks has shown us it can be done.

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