Miriam’s legacy: From biblical epics to modern cinematic trailblazers for Passover viewing

Explore the portrayal of Miriam in biblical epics and discover modern cinematic heroines who embody her spirit of defiance and artistry for Passover 2026.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 8, 2026, 6:25 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Jerusalem Post

Miriam in the Great Biblical Epics

Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron, is celebrated in the Exodus story for her early assertiveness in saving baby Moses and her later role as a musical leader during the parting of the Red Sea. In cinema, she has appeared in several notable adaptations:

The Prince of Egypt (1998): This animated musical provides one of the most substantial roles for Miriam (voiced by Sandra Bullock). She is central to the film's emotional core, performing in the haunting opening number "Deliver Us" and the Oscar-winning "When You Believe."

Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014): In Ridley Scott’s retelling, Tara Fitzgerald portrays a Miriam who exhibits immense physical courage, facing torture at the hands of Ramses (Joel Edgerton) to protect the secret of Moses’ (Christian Bale) true identity.

The Ten Commandments (1956): In Cecil B. DeMille’s classic, Miriam (Olive Deering) appears as a minor but vital link in the family dynamic, providing a sense of righteousness alongside Charlton Heston’s iconic Moses.

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