Where "Gladiator" used CGI, Cecil B DeMille used a cast of hundreds and remarkable sets to create his biblical epic "The Ten Commandments". Lovingly restored in 1989, it is this version that makes it onto a two-disc DVD release.

Shot in wonderful VistaVision onto Technicolor stock, this is a film where the colours are bright and saturated with vivid flesh tones. A near impeccable print transfers to DVD this spectacle of scale and grandeur for a whole new generation to marvel over. Particularly impressive in 'Vista-Vibrance' is the 'light of God' breaking through a fresh sky, that in a later scene turns to an angry blood red in this fine transfer.

The 5.1 sound mix concentrates on separating the music score around the speakers to attempt to match the majestic imagery. It works well, but prepare yourself for a few mighty effects too, as a pillar of flame howls around the speakers before Heston divides the Red Sea.

Sadly, the only extra features on this disc are three trailers for the film, taken from the original 1956 release, 1966 re-release, and the 1989 restored release. After the impressive extras on Columbia's "Bridge on the River Kwai" DVD and "Lawrence of Arabia" DVD, this release may seem a little disappointing. Nevertheless, there's no faulting the transfer and the three hour plus duration of the movie should keep most people busy.

Chapters: 48
Region: 2
Ratio: 1.78:1 (Anamorphic)
Sound: Dolby Digital 5.1
Extra Features: Scene selection, trailer, multiple languages, subtitles, English for the hearing impaired.