Watch The Story of Ruth

The Story of Ruth is a 1960 biblical drama film directed by Henry Koster and starring Stuart Whitman, Tom Tryon, and Peggy Wood. The film is a retelling of the biblical story of Ruth and is set in ancient Israel during the time of the Judges. The film opens with the Israelite family of Elimelech and his wife Naomi (played by Wood) leaving the city of Bethlehem to escape a famine. Along with their two sons, they travel to the land of Moab where they settle and try to make a life for themselves. Elimelech dies, and their sons Mahlon and Chilion marry Moabite women named Orpah and Ruth (played by Viveca Lindfors and Elana Eden).

Unfortunately, tragedy strikes again as both Mahlon and Chilion die, leaving Naomi widowed and childless. Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem and implores her daughters-in-law to remain in Moab and start new lives for themselves. Orpah agrees, but Ruth refuses to leave Naomi's side and pledges her loyalty to her mother-in-law with the famous line, "Where you go, I will go. Where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God."

Once back in Bethlehem, Naomi and Ruth struggle to survive as widows in a male-dominated society. Ruth decides to go out into the fields and glean grain in order to provide for her and Naomi. She catches the eye of the wealthy Boaz (played by Whitman), the owner of the fields she is gleaning in. Boaz offers to protect Ruth and Naomi and to make sure they don't go hungry.

As the story unfolds, Boaz and Ruth's relationship grows, and Boaz offers to marry Ruth and take care of her and Naomi. However, there is a complication. A closer relative of Naomi's deceased husband has a right to marry Ruth before Boaz does, according to Jewish law. Boaz works to secure the right to marry Ruth and ultimately succeeds.

The film concludes with the marriage of Boaz and Ruth and the birth of their son, who would become the grandfather of King David.

The Story of Ruth is a beautiful retelling of the biblical story with excellent performances from the cast. Peggy Wood portrays Naomi with grace and strength, while Elana Eden is captivating as Ruth. Stuart Whitman gives a nuanced performance as Boaz, and Tom Tryon is excellent as Ruth's former husband's relative.

Director Henry Koster does an excellent job of portraying the story's themes of loyalty, love, and faith. The film is a visual feast, with beautiful costumes and stunning landscapes that transport the viewer to the ancient world of Israel. The score by Franz Waxman is also a standout, highlighting the film's emotional moments and adding to its overall impact.

Overall, The Story of Ruth is an excellent biblical drama that will resonate with audiences of all ages. Its timeless themes and superb performances make it a must-see for fans of the genre.

The Story of Ruth is a 1960 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 12 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.