Noah's Ark

For the flood sequence, Michael Curtiz had a huge tank constructed, containing more than 1 million gallons of water, with access spillways leading to the tops of the Babylonian temple set. When cinematographer Hal Mohr questioned him about the lack of safeguards, Curtiz reportedly replied, "They're just going to have to take their chances." Mohr, a survivor of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and fire, was so appalled that he walked off the set. Barney McGill took over as cinematographer, and the stunt proceeded as planned. The water was released from the tanks, and 15 cameramen and countless extras thrashed about in the water for hours. Three people drowned, one had to have a leg amputated, and almost a dozen suffered broken limbs and other serious injuries.

During the flood sequence (1 hr. 29 min. approx.) Japheth (George O'Brien) is clearly repeatedly calling/mouthing "Maria" as he searches for Dolores Costello. Her name in the Biblical sequence is MIRIAM. (And even in the WW1 story, she is named Marie (Not Maria !).)

Guinn 'Big Boy' Williams (Al/Ham) is listed in the credits as "Gwynn Williams."

This premiered at 135 minutes, then was immediately cut for subsequent roadshow engagements, and then the "popular" run. Over 30 minutes of footage was taken out, including all the talking scenes involving Noah. This version was 11-reels in length(about 102 minutes). Producer Robert Youngson supervised a 1957 re-release, eliminating all talking sequences and inserting a narration. This version is 75 minutes long.

Featured in Magic Movie Moments (1953)