The Prince of Egypt: Spielberg's Influence and the Making of a Classic Animated Film

The Vision Behind The Prince of Egypt

The Prince of Egypt, released in 1998, remains a timeless classic in the realm of animated musicals. The film, directed by Brenda Chapman, Steve Hickner, and Simon Wells, features an all-star cast including Val Kilmer, Ralph Finnes, Michelle Pfeiffer, Sandra Bullock, Jeff Goldblum, Danny Glover, Patrick Stewart, Helen Mirren, and Steve Martin. At the heart of this masterpiece lies the visionary influence of Steven Spielberg, whose role in the film's production extends far beyond a mere credit.

Val Kilmer as Moses looking concerned in The Prince of Egypt movie

In an exclusive interview with Screen Rant, Stephen Schwartz, the songwriter behind The Prince of Egypt, sheds light on Spielberg's pivotal role in shaping the film's narrative. It was Spielberg's vision that gave birth to the concept of a 'brother story' at the core of the movie. He envisioned the journey of two young men, Moses and Rameses, as they matured from childhood friends to eventual adversaries. This profound insight laid the foundation for a compelling tale of love, destiny, and conflict.

Despite not being credited for the story, Spielberg's creative genius permeates every frame of The Prince of Egypt. His vision for the film transcended conventional storytelling, delving into the intricate dynamics of relationships and destinies. It was this audacious vision that set the stage for the creation of a cinematic masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.

Spielberg's Influence and DreamWorks Animation

While Spielberg's name may not appear in the story credit of The Prince of Egypt, his influence on the film's creation is undeniable. The screenplay credit went to Philip LaZebnik, known for his work on classic Disney films like Mulan and Pocahontas. However, it was Spielberg's initial concept that ignited the creative spark behind the film's narrative.

As one of the founding members of DreamWorks Animation, Spielberg played a pivotal role in shaping the studio's identity. The establishment of DreamWorks Animation in 1994 laid the groundwork for groundbreaking projects like The Prince of Egypt. Even though Spielberg's direct involvement in the film's production may have been minimal, his visionary leadership was instrumental in setting the stage for the studio's iconic sophomore feature.

Spielberg's bold vision for The Prince of Egypt transcended the boundaries of traditional animated storytelling. The film's ambitious undertaking of retelling a religious tale on such a grand scale, while infusing it with entertainment, emotion, and musicality, stands as a testament to Spielberg's unwavering commitment to innovative storytelling. The Prince of Egypt's enduring legacy as a beloved animated classic is a testament to the indelible mark left by Spielberg's creative vision.

The Enduring Legacy of The Prince of Egypt

The Prince of Egypt's impact extends far beyond its initial release, solidifying its place as a timeless masterpiece in the animated film canon. Spielberg's influence, though not prominently credited, continues to be celebrated as a driving force behind the film's success. The seamless blend of captivating storytelling, stellar animation, and an all-star cast has secured The Prince of Egypt's status as a cherished classic.

Within the Jewish community, the film holds a special place, offering a poignant and accessible retelling of a significant religious narrative. Spielberg's audacious vision to transform a religious tale into an engaging, emotive, and musically-rich cinematic experience has earned The Prince of Egypt a revered status within the Jewish community and beyond.

The Prince of Egypt's enduring appeal lies in its ability to captivate audiences of all generations, transcending cultural and religious boundaries. As a testament to Spielberg's visionary influence, the film stands as a timeless testament to the power of innovative storytelling and creative collaboration.