Synopsis
Begin with
one of the oldest and greatest spiritual texts of the Western world, then
bring it to television in a style relevant to a modern audience. That's
exactly the kind of creative challenge upon which Hallmark Entertainment
has built a worldwide reputation. The result -- the two-night television
event, In the Beginning -- is a success one might call biblical
in proportion.
In The Beginning
is a powerfully rendered compilation of the most enduring stories from
the Old Testament -- those of the Hebrew patriarch Abraham and his lineage.
What makes
In
the Beginning unique and compelling, even to the "nonreligious" viewer,
is the choice by Hallmark Entertainment to focus on the real human dramas
that lie beneath the theology and the myth. In this sense, In the Beginning
is a fresh story of hope, faith and courage that today's audiences will
discover in a new light.
 Sacrificing
none of the dramatic sweep, power and passion found in the original stories,
this four-hour saga starts with the "story of creation" and Abraham's call
to find the Promised Land, then seamlessly weaves together the epic quest
of a people as dramatized in the stories of Isaac, Rebeccah, Esau and Jacob;
the remarkable rise to power of Joseph, despite having been sold into slavery
by his envious brothers; Moses and the burning bush, and the origin of
Passover. The story culminates with Moses's deliverance of the Ten Commandments
and the liberation of the Hebrews from Egypt. Regional locations such as
Morocco bring scenic authenticity to the production and provide a stunning
backdrop for plenty of riveting action that will keep audiences enthralled.
Most of all,
viewers will be drawn to In The Beginning by its magnificent characters
impressively portrayed by a typical Hallmark Entertainment A-list cast.
Martin Landau (Abraham), Jacqueline Bisset (Sarah), Billy Campbell (Moses)
and Ed Cibrian (Joseph), Jonathan Firth (Joshua) topline the epic.
Emmy-nominated
Cinesite provides world-class visual effects guaranteed to awe a 21st century
audience just as the actual biblical events awed those who first witnessed
them. You'll see the parting of the Red Sea, through which the Hebrews
escape the Pharoah's army; the storm of locusts as foretold by Moses; the
burning bush through which God speaks to Moses; the staff of Abraham (which
turns into a snake whenever Moses throws it down); plus the amazing blood-red
winds, hailstorms and twisters of God's wrath.
In the Beginning
is less about a theology than it is about a code of moral and ethical laws
that arise from a people seeking freedom. Throughout the interwoven stories
are real passions, jealousies, betrayals, power, human failings and, of
course, love. Underpinning it all is the quest for the Promised Land. And,
as the story concludes with Moses handing the staff of Abraham to Aaron
as they gaze upon their new land, there is a sense that a new chapter in
the life of these people is just beginning. Indeed, In the Beginning ends
where it began: with hope, faith and promise. A real inspiration for all
who watch. |
