Synopsis
Raised as Egyptian royalty, Moses learns that he was born a Hebrew and begins questioning the empire he once expected to inherit. After a devastating revelation separates him from his brother Rameses, Moses embraces his spiritual calling and returns to Egypt. He must confront the pharaoh, lead the Hebrews toward freedom, and face the consequences of challenging his former family.
Factoids & Trivia
- The film was DreamWorks Animation's first traditionally animated feature, although Antz reached theaters earlier after being moved ahead in the release schedule.
- The production team consulted roughly 600 religious scholars and leaders while developing the story, seeking accuracy and sensitivity toward the shared traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
- Stephen Schwartz wrote the songs, while Hans Zimmer composed the orchestral score. The score was recorded in London.
- DreamWorks released three companion soundtrack albums: the main film soundtrack, a country-oriented Nashville album, and a gospel-oriented Inspirational album.
- "When You Believe" won the Academy Award for Best Original Song. The film's version is performed by the characters, while the more widely known pop version features Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey.
- The film premiered in Los Angeles on December 16, 1998, and opened widely two days later on December 18.
- Its success led to Joseph: King of Dreams, a direct-to-video animated prequel released in 2000.
- A stage musical adaptation eventually opened in London's West End in 2020.