Ben-Hur Cut Down Trailer (2016)

Alternate trailer for Ben-Hur shows additional footage not shown in the trailer.

Remake of the 1959 classic, a falsely accused nobleman survives years of slavery to take vengeance on his best friend who betrayed him.

It would seem the casting agent for Ben-Hur always knew the character Esther would be extremely attractive. While Nazanin Boniadi is definitely that, the role was also offered to Sofia Boutella, Moran Atias and Natlia Warner as well.

Remakes of classics rarely make sense, and the 1959 Ben-Hur has been ranked #2 by the American Film Institute for greatest film under the genre of "epic". Because of this, we are presented a double-edged sword. Since regarded so highly, studios see the need [and cash dollars] to re-create the story for the next generation. But, at the same time, the original is so good that it is unlikely for the remake to surpass it or even match it.

As shown even in this Ben-Hur trailer, the franchise is known for its insane chariot races. The 1959 version required an infirmary to be built near the set, to take care of injuries incurred during the race sequences. Fortunately, the infirmary spent most its time healing sunburns.

Two trailers for a highly anticipated film in a single day? Immediately after releasing the first trailer for the film, Paramount followed up with this "Cut Down" trailer. Taking advantage of a shorter running time, the condensed trailer seems to have more caffeine pumped into its veins while it focuses on visuals and less on story.

It makes sense, and we can imagine future TV spots for Ben Hur to feel a lot like this. Just because most productions featuring the always-eloquent Morgan Freeman feel the need to use his soothing voice, this trailer made sure to have his character, Ilderim, play narrator.