The Egyptian (1954)

The blasphemous fictional story about Ancient Egypt's biggest simp.

The Egyptian is a 1954 American epic historical drama film made by 20th Century-Fox. Filmed in CinemaScope with color by DeLuxe, it was directed by Michael Curtiz and produced by Darryl F. Zanuck. It is based on Mika Waltari's 1945 novel of the same name and the screenplay was adapted by Philip Dunne and Casey Robinson. Leading roles were played by Edmund Purdom, Bella Darvi, Jean Simmons, Victor Mature, Gene Tierney, Peter Ustinov, and Michael Wilding. Cinematographer Leon Shamroy was nominated for an Oscar in 1955.

PLOT : In ancient Egypt's 18th Dynasty, Sinuhe, a struggling physician, accompanies his friend Horemheb on a lion hunt where they chance upon Pharaoh Akhnaton during a moment of religious revelation in the desert. Sinuhe assists Akhnaton during a sudden seizure, an act that earns him the Pharaoh's gratitude and a coveted position as court physician. Akhnaton, deeply moved by his experience, embarks on a mission to transform Egypt's religious landscape, promoting the worship of Aten, the sun god, to the exclusion of Egypt's traditional pantheon. This radical departure from centuries-old beliefs leads to intense conflict with the powerful and corrupt priesthood of the old gods.

Sinuhe's newfound status at court initially fulfills his ambitions, but personal tragedy soon follows. He becomes infatuated with Nefer, a Babylonian courtesan who rejects him despite his lavish gifts. Meanwhile, Sinuhe's neglect of his elderly parents results in their tragic suicide. Overwhelmed with grief and guilt, Sinuhe arranges for their burial in the Valley of the Kings, but is left destitute and forced to work off his debts at an embalming house.

During his self-imposed exile, Sinuhe meets Merit, a tavern maid, who warns him of Akhnaton's growing distrust. Sinuhe's absence during the illness and death of one of Akhnaton's daughters leads to accusations and condemnation. Fearing for his life, Sinuhe flees Egypt with his faithful servant Kaptah. They embark on a journey across the known world, where Sinuhe's skills as an Egyptian physician earn him renown and wealth.

After a decade abroad, Sinuhe returns to Egypt, driven by a desire for redemption. He shares vital military intelligence with Horemheb, now commander of the Egyptian army, about an impending Hittite invasion. This act of loyalty towards Egypt and its people earns Sinuhe a chance at forgiveness and a return to favor.

However, Sinuhe's return coincides with escalating tensions in Egypt. The old priesthood, incensed by Akhnaton's reforms, manipulates Sinuhe into considering a plot to assassinate Akhnaton and install Horemheb as pharaoh. Sinuhe's internal conflict intensifies when Princess Baketamun reveals that he is the illegitimate son of a previous pharaoh, discarded at birth due to palace intrigue. Despite these revelations and temptations, Sinuhe hesitates to commit regicide.

Events take a tragic turn when Merit is killed while seeking refuge at an Atenist altar during a violent attack by traditionalists. Overwhelmed by grief and blaming Akhnaton for Merit's death, Sinuhe finally succumbs to the priests' plot and poisons the pharaoh. In his final moments, Akhnaton accepts his fate, believing in the truth of his religious vision but acknowledging his imperfect understanding and the future's potential to fulfill it better.

Sinuhe's actions, however, do not bring him peace. His conscience tormented, he prevents Horemheb from drinking the poisoned wine, allowing him to become pharaoh and marry Princess Baketamun. Despite Horemheb's clemency towards Sinuhe, the physician's continued advocacy for Akhnaton's ideals leads to his exile to the shores of the Red Sea. There, Sinuhe writes his memoirs, hoping that they will serve as a testament to his tumultuous life, the ideals of Akhnaton, and the enduring legacy of ancient Egypt.

Ultimately, the story of Sinuhe and Akhnaton unfolds against the backdrop of ancient Egypt's rich history and complex societal dynamics, showcasing the clash between tradition and innovation, personal ambition and moral integrity.

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