Common Sense Media Review
By Tom Cassidy
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
1940s biblical epic has violence toward humans and animals.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
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Where to Watch
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Samson and Delilah
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In SAMSON AND DELILAH, the supernaturally strong Samson (Victor Mature) turns down Delilah (Hedy Lamarr) in favor of her sister. Spurred on by the death of her family, Delilah carries out a cunning plan to seduce and destroy Samson by finding out the source of his extreme power.
Is It Any Good?
Starting with scenes of the swaggering, cocky Samson, this 1949 classic is hard work at first. But as soon as we meet the female co-lead, Samson and Delilah kicks up a gear and doesn't stop entertaining. Lamarr is the star of the show as Delilah. She plays the biblical hell-raiser as a cat-like femme fatale and it's great fun to watch her fiendish plan unfold, as the character patiently plays the long game to bring down Samson. Director Cecile B. Demille brings the Old Testament to life with a lush production of rich colors and dramatic, gorgeous costumes. Outdated gender politics and iffy animal antics aside, this is a solid retelling elevated by a great performance.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the story of Samson and Delilah. Did you know about it before you saw the movie? What do you think the movie's message might be?
Discuss some of the violence in the movie. Did it seem realistic? Does exposure to violent media desensitize kids to violence?
Talk about Delilah's feelings of guilt. Is it usual to see a character show remorse in a movie?
The movie was released in 1949. Did any parts of the film feel dated or problematic? How might the movie be differerent if it was made today?
Movie Details
- In theaters : December 21, 1949
- On DVD or streaming : May 1, 2012
- Cast : Hedy Lamarr , Victor Mature , George Sanders
- Director : Cecil B. DeMille
- Studio : Paramount Pictures
- Genre : Classic
- Topics : Book Characters
- Run time : 134 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Award : Academy Award
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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