Together with Ben Hur, this is another Bible film that finally gets it right in terms of not detouring. It has everything: story, sceneries, drama, message, the greatest action scene ever filmed (the race) and even a humorous scene. I have watched it 4 times and will absolutely watch it another 16 times. You never get bored with this movie. I love the acting and special effects. I hear they filmed this in SOuth America. Unfortunately, it shouldn't be seen on a small video screen - where you usually watch it nowadays.
Is it also ponderous as these negative people say? Maybe--especially if you have seen other Biblical era epics ("Greatest Story" or "Spartacus") or if you don't quite click with the material. Is it what you would call a good movie, or a great one? It has the credentials. But it also is filled with secondary actors to support the dubious leading man David (who gives one of the performances of his life, for sure, and has openly credited the director for that).