DreamWorks shares Oscar-winning theme song updated to include 25 different languages to celebrate musical’s 1998 release, plus breakdowns of 3 key sequences as told by directors Brenda Chapman, Steven Hickner, and Simon Wells: ‘Parting the Red Sea,’ ‘Deliver Us,’ and ‘When You Believe.’
DreamWorks Animation’s The Prince of Egypt is celebrating its 25th anniversary, and as part of the celebration, the studio has released four special new videos: a remastered version of the Oscar-winning theme song, “When You Believe,” updated to include 25 different languages, and scene breakdowns by the film’s three directors of key sequences “Parting the Red Sea,” “Deliver Us,” and “When You Believe.”
The then new studio’s second film was animated using a combination of CG and hand-drawn techniques. Adapted from “The Book of Exodus,” the 1998 musical tells the story of Moses's life and the Israelites' delivery from Egypt.
The movie was directed by Brenda Chapman, Steve Hickner, and Simon Wells from a screenplay by Philip LaZebnik. Stephen Schwartz wrote the songs, and Hans Zimmer composed the score. The all-star voice cast included Val Kilmer, Ralph Fiennes, Michelle Pfeiffer, Sandra Bullock, Jeff Goldblum, Danny Glover, Patrick Stewart, Helen Mirren, Steve Martin, and Martin Short.
A version of the theme song, “When You Believe,” with music and lyrics by Schwartz, was recorded by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey and went on to win the Oscar for Best Original Song at the 71st Academy Awards. The film was, at that time, the most successful non-Disney animated feature ever, grossing $218 million at the international box office.
Take a look back and enjoy!
“The Prince of Egypt: When You Believe - Remastered to include 25 Different Languages:
Director Simon Wells shares artwork and insight into the scene “Parting the Red Sea:”
Director Brenda Chapman shares artwork and insight into the scene “Deliver Us:”
Director Steven Hickner shares artwork and insight into the scene, “When You Believe:”
Source: DreamWorks Animation
Debbie Diamond Sarto is news editor at Animation World Network.
