Out to save the world can be accomplished in many different ways. Beyond all expectations busy 20th Century Fox succeeds with Exodus: Gods and Kings. Perfect timing for the holiday season this smart, sophisticated story is now fully engaging audiences at Cineplex Odeon theatres around B.C.

To the ends of the Earth acclaimed director Ridley Scott goes. And back in time. First stop for our filmmakers is ancient Egypt. Now we enter a time of chariots and slaves with ruling pharaoh laying siege to 400,000 odd heroes. Hero in the making Moses leads a chequered past but seems comfortable at the seats of power as a confidante to the supreme leader and his rather unprepared son Rhamses.

Former Batman Christian Bale (The Dark Knight) does freedom lovers everywhere proud as a smart leader forced to take up sides in this ancient kingdom where might makes right. Lead by example is what Moses does best unlike his former pal Rhamses, portrayed with icy veins by Joel Edgerton (The Great Gatsby). Monsters come in all shapes and sizes with Rhamses clearly a notable addition to any international hall of shame.

Spectacle is what all biblical epics must have and here Exodus. Gods and Kings delivers. Fantastic monuments to the sky sets and stunning special effects does justice to the way God interacts with Moses. Given this great story and the emotion given off by the plight of the Hebrew victims versus their evil oppressors and this movie will move you.

Presented in 3-D which really was not that necessary Exodus: Gods and Kings boasts stunning sets, engaging performances and a fitting tribute to ancient cultures, warts and all.