The grand biblical epics, once a staple of major Hollywood studios, have all but disappeared from the cinematic landscape. With few exceptions, these films have largely been relegated to television or independent productions focused on promoting Christian themes. One such example is One Night with the King, a 2006 biblical epic directed by Michael O. Sajbel and produced by Gener8Xion Entertainment.
Based on the novel by Mark Olsen and Tommy Tenney, which draws inspiration from the Book of Esther in the Old Testament, the film's plot is set in 5th Century BC Persia. Jewish woman Hadassa (played by Tiffany Dupont) lives under the rule of King Xerxes (“Ahausuerus” in Biblical tradition, played by Luke Goss), who seeks to launch a military campaign against the Greeks. Queen Vashti (played by Jyoti Dogra) opposes this plan and is subsequently banished by Xerxes, who then summons all women from Susa in search of a new queen. Among them is Hadassa, who would later change her name to Esther and become part of the king's harem. As Esther rises through the ranks to become queen, she falls in love with Xerxes while Haman (played by Richard Callis), one of the king's officials who harbors a deep-seated hatred for Jews, plots against them. When Mordechai, Hadassa's cousin, disrespects Haman, he convinces Xerxes to order the massacre of all Jews within the empire. Esther must now risks her own life in order to save her people.
Visually, One Night with the King is a treat, with a relatively small budget well spent on production design, costumes, and props that lend an air of authenticity. The film's exotic locales in Rajasthan, India, together with plenty of local talent, further add to relatively convincing reconstruction of what Persia 2500 years might have looked like. However, the script falls short of expectations, burdened by one-dimensional characters.
Tiffany Dupont shines as Hadassa/Esther, bringing charm and nuance to her role. Unfortunately, she lacks chemistry with Luke Goss, who struggles to convey the requisite romance and sentimentality necessary for the film's success. John Rhys-Davis is solid as Mordechai but ultimately underutilized in his supporting role. James Callis, known for his complex portrayal of an antihero in Battlestar Galactica, disappoints as a one-dimensional villain.
While One Night with the King provides a somewhat unusual and visually impressive work within the biblical epic genre due to its Persian setting, its poor script and less-than-desirable acting make it a disappointing experience more akin to a glorified television film. Its failure at the box office and among critics is unsurprising, and while watchable, it is primarily recommended for a niche audience already appreciative of its religious content.
RATING: 4/10 (+)
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