1
[man narrating]
Four hundred years ago,
God delivered us
to this Promised Land.
But as the years passed,
many of our tribes forgot
and turned their backs to God.
When the Philistines came,
they found us weak, divided,
and they enslaved our people.
Our only hope was a prophecy
that a man would be born,
one who would rise up
and set our people free.
[man] O Great Dagon,
lord of battles,
bestower of wealth
and bountiful harvests,
look upon your people,
the Philistines of Gaza.
[cheering]
We are gathered here
at your feet
to bring you gifts gathered
by the hands of the Hebrews
- who gave unto us...
- Move. Move.
to conquer and command!
Look how easily the Hebrews
forsake their god
and serve Dagon.
They grew this food...
[continues, indistinct]
[exhales]
[scraping]
[whispering]
Throw away the outside.
Cook the inside,
then eat the outside.
What is it?
What approaches with a stalk
but has ears that cannot hear?
That riddle's almost as bad
as this plan, Brother.
[chuckles]
[soldier] Move along!
What has flesh but no blood
and a heart made of stone?
You talking about
the olives or Father?
[officer]
Hey! Hebrew!
What are you
doing back there?
I'm, uh...
I'm waiting for my master.
He prays in the temple.
[whispering]
Samson, what's happening?
[officer] Then why do
you hide your face?
Remove your hood.
[whispering]
Hey, Brother.
[officer]
Hebrew, show yourself.
[whispering] Samson,
what's happening there?
Brother.
[soldier]
I know him.
That's Samson, the Hebrew
strongman from the pits.
Be very careful.
You're coming with us. We'll find your
master, see if you're telling the truth.
Of course.
- [clanking]
- Why would I resist?
Aah!
[chuckles]
[Brother] Samson!
Samson!
[guard] Thieves!
Thieves in the temple!
The harder to catch,
the faster I run.
- What am I?
- Too easy.
Your breath.
The eyes of Dagon
see you for what you are.
You shall not escape
his wrath.
He will crush you
and all who defy him.
- This way!
- Don't let them escape.
Stop him, you fool!
[clamoring]
- [laughs]
- No!
[priest] No!
No!
[bell tolling]
Come. This way.
[laughs]
Come back here!
[together]
This way to the gate.
[together] Where are you going?
It's this way.
Thieves!
- [soldier] Thieves!
- [soldier 2] Split up!
There they go!
There's nowhere
to run, Hebrew!
[yells]
- Morning, ladies.
- [women giggle]
- What do we have here?
- [soldier] There he is!
Thief!
I'll be right back.
This should only take a moment.
Come on!
- Come back here. Come back here.
- [giggles]
[laughing]
Oh!
What happened to you?
Let's never
speak of this.
- [soldier] There! There he is!
- Go!
- Come back here.
- This way, Brother.
- [laughing]
- [soldier] Thieves! Come back!
[soldier] Hebrews!
If this month's tribute
falls short,
next month's will be double!
[screams]
Get out!
I know you have more!
[shouts] Where is it?
No. Stop.
- Where's Samson?
- He will be here.
Please.
Show mercy, my lord.
And what form
should my mercy take?
The tribute,
it is too much, my lord.
We starve while our wheat
grows mold in your barns.
Can you not spare us
a little more, my lord?
What is your name, Hebrew?
My name is Tobias, my lord.
Tobias.
I, Prince Rallah,
have heard this man's cry.
And as commander
of the Philistine army...
I declare henceforth
this man shall
never hunger again.
- Aah!
- [gasps]
[cries out]
[Tobias groans]
[gasping]
[cries out]
[body thuds]
Does anyone else desire mercy?
[woman sobbing]
[sobbing continues]
Back to work.
Back to work!
[sobbing continues]
[Samson laughs] You mean
you wish, little brother.
Another man died today.
Tobias was killed
by the Philistine commander.
You were called by God,
gifted with his power,
to deliver his people.
The council think it's his time
for a judge to be anointed.
We do not need a judge.
We need peace.
Remember the prophecy,
Samson of the tribe of Dan,
chosen by the living God
to be his hand
of vengeance.
It's his will.
But it is not mine.
Son, you are not like
other Hebrews.
You're meant for so much more.
You were...
You never fail
to remind me of this.
Everything God has required
of me, I have done.
I kept every vow.
No wine.
No touching the dead.
No cutting of my hair.
And where has it gotten me?
Where has it gotten us?
Are we free from rule?
Do we have peace?
Why does God withhold
what we desire?
Samson, you must not
forget who you are.
[Rallah] The silos are half full
after the tribute today.
Tomorrow, we will fill
the remainder from Accra.
Is that all?
[chuckles]
There are whispers
of a Hebrew
with great strength.
His people believe him
to be a savior,
but it is a story
of the slaves, nothing more.
Stories.
Stories
are possibilities,
and possibilities are hope.
And hope...
hope is rebellion.
I want you to investigate this.
Should I not be doing something more
than keeping watch over slaves?
You think this
is beneath you?
But, Father...
In matters of the crown,
do not call me father.
I'm your king.
Do as I say.
Yes, my king.
Now.
- [braying]
- [cheering in distance]
Don't even think about it.
[braying]
What's happening?
Samson.
The Philistines
have a new fighter.
Bolcom from Egypt.
He can't be beaten.
He mocks our people,
and he mocks our God.
- But you can show him.
- Samson's not interested.
Our father's given us...
[Bolcom] Pathetic!
I have fought men
from every land!
These Hebrews
and their puny god
are like fighting children!
Send two against me!
God Dagon
guarantees many returns!
Support your
Hebrew fighters.
A hundred manehs.
Let the fighting begin!
- [grunts]
- Brother, think.
Why would they bring this
monster if not to draw you out?
Something's not right here.
I'm just gonna
take a look.
What's the harm in that?
The last time you said that,
I cracked two of my...
- [bones cracking]
- [yells]
Father.
The fights turn my stomach.
Can I please be excused?
There are many fine nobles
here with deep pockets.
Mingle with them, hmm?
And try to smile.
[yells]
- You people are weak!
- [cheering]
And you serve an even weaker god!
[yells]
Our God is not weak.
- And neither are his people.
- Look. Samson.
Samson.
[man] Ooh!
The Hebrew champion.
A bag of silver
for the victor!
Only one?
Do you have such little faith
in your god?
All right.
Two bags of silver then.
Samson,
Father will be furious.
Brother,
are you listening?
- [man] 10-to-1!
- [cheering]
[crowd chanting]
Bolcom! Bolcom! Bolcom!
Bolcom! Bolcom!
Bets are closed.
Let the fighting begin!
Brother.
Are you all right?
Find out who she is,
and I will be.
[chanting]
Bolcom! Bolcom!
Bolcom! Bolcom!
Bolcom! Bolcom!
Bolcom! Bolcom! Bolcom!
Bolcom! Bolcom!
Bolcom! Bolcom!
Where is your
Hebrew champion now, huh?
Dagon has proven his power!
And I have proven mine!
God, give me
your strength.
My name is Samson.
My name is Samson,
and I serve the living God.
And you have proven nothing.
[yells]
Yield. The silver is yours.
Just... Just put the rock down.
[crowd chanting]
Samson! Samson!
Samson!
[cheering]
Yeah!
[laughs]
Father,
look what Samson did.
I heard.
You can take it
to the council.
But he won these for us.
Would you feast if the
rest of us were starving?
Your brother's
becoming arrogant.
He's doing
what he sees as right.
He only sees what's right
in front of him, that's all.
[man] Halt!
Halt for the prince.
Well, if it is not the greatest
fighter riches can buy.
[horse whinnies]
Shh.
[man] Lord, you hired us
to draw him out.
We never promised victory.
Right.
Right you are.
[chuckles]
You there.
Your master has cost me
quite a lot today.
- My lord...
- Hold your tongue, or I shall have it cut from your mouth.
Does this bother you?
The riches your master
has cost me?
I guess not.
Very well.
You will enter my service
until your debt is paid.
Well... [chuckles]
not all of you.
- Aah!
- [screams]
[sobbing]
[Rallah] Rumor is true.
I saw him lift a boulder the
size of an ox without strain.
The Hebrew god is in him.
- Within him?
- Yes.
What is he then?
Is he a half-god?
[laughs]
If gods were mortal,
he would be one.
- You forget whose kingdom you inhabit.
- Yes.
Our god Dagon is mighty.
Yes, he is.
Would you kindly
give us some privacy?
Sit.
This is not
Dagon's kingdom.
'Tis mine.
You must see gods
for what they are.
They are symbols.
They have no power.
To the common man, they
provide something bigger.
To us, they are
means of control.
I am Dagon.
You can be Dagon if you stomp out
this fire before it becomes a blaze.
- Yes, my king.
- [chuckles]
You may return!
- He will serve the crown or he will die.
- I'm sure he will.
How did I know
I'd find you here?
This is the best view
in all of Israel.
You should turn your eyes and
mind towards things that matter.
I am appreciating
God's creation.
What could possibly
be more important than that?
- Fulfilling your destiny? Becoming judge?
- No, there is no judge.
- You carry the anointing.
- But I'm not ready.
You're never ready.
What are you
smiling at?
I found her.
Oh, little brother,
now this is good news.
Her name is Taren.
She's in Gaza.
- And even worse, she's a servant a Rallah.
- I must relieve her of that.
- No, you must not.
- No, I must.
- And one more thing.
- What?
You must
not tell Mother.
[Samson]
Is everything all right?
Forgive me. I just...
Just what?
You enjoy spying on people?
No.
Not at all. I just had
to know who you were.
After seeing you at the
fight, my head was spinning.
Are you sure that was not
because of his punch?
[chuckles]
No.
The only reason he landed that punch
was because I was distracted.
By you.
They say that those who tangle with
you leave wishing they had not.
[bell rings]
The prince.
I must go.
Wait. Do you know
the cliffs by the beach?
Near the path
where Gaza meets the sea?
Yes.
They are beautiful.
[bell rings]
Meet me there tomorrow
at first light.
- Please?
- [laughs]
[man] How long must we wait for God
to deliver us from this oppression?
He has already revealed
his chosen one. It is Samson.
[man 2] Well, where is he then?
He should be here.
Samson does not want
to be judge.
It is better this way.
He is unfit to lead.
How can God choose a barbarian
that chases after a woman
like it is his birthright?
And may I add,
I'm grateful he has eyes for the
Philistine maidens and not our women.
At least there is a slight chance my own
sister will be safe from his advances.
Your sister would not
have her virtue
if not for the protection
given by my brother.
Would you have him remove it from you?
From her?
From all of you?
[murmuring]
[Samson] I was beginning to
wonder if you would show.
I used to play here
as a child.
Walk along the water
with my father.
It's actually the only reason
I chose to come.
Oh, is that so?
[chuckles]
Yes, that is so.
Do you consider me a liar?
No, I'm not saying
you were lying.
I mean, is that
the only reason?
There is no other?
Well, if you must know
the entire truth...
then yes.
- Are you coming or not?
- [both laugh]
- [Taren] Can I ask you something?
- Of course.
Do you believe in destiny?
That your life can be decided for
you even before you're born.
Yes, I do.
Well, I do not.
I refuse to be bound
by slavery of any kind.
What about me
and my people?
Are we not slaves to your
people, the Philistines?
We do not have the freedom
that you speak of.
Our lives are our own.
Our destiny
is what we make of it.
You're only a slave
if you let them make you one.
If you think that your current situation
is any different than mine...
well, you're wrong.
[Samson]
Tell me of your family.
[Taren] My mother was killed
when I was only a child,
and the prince has enslaved my
father until his debt is paid.
I'm sorry.
Your people are not
the only victims.
All my life it's been said
that I'm meant to lead my people
to victory
against the Philistines.
Us?
My brethren
are beaten, starved.
Our livestock is stolen.
This has gone on for years,
Taren, with no end in sight.
Samson, we are enslaved
by the same people.
Who do you want to be?
Father.
Husband.
I believe you
can be that man.
[chuckles]
[sighing]
Troubled?
When the old man dies,
should I declare a time of mourning
for the passing of a king?
Or a time of celebration
for the coronation of a new one?
Do you expect
this tragedy soon?
It does not matter.
I will be rejoicing
regardless.
He thinks me unprepared
for the crown,
and he'll task me with the act of
suppressing a slave rebellion.
It is a fool's errand.
I should be leading armies
into Sidon, Media, and Egypt.
These Hebrews are not worth
the time of a future king.
My father.
He grows senile
in his old age.
He's led our kingdom
into prosperity.
Perhaps he deserves
more honor.
Perhaps your prince
deserves more respect.
You need more wine.
If you wish to serve
as my queen,
you will learn
to tame your tongue.
Of course, my love.
The throne
will be ours soon.
My Delilah.
[both laughing]
[Samson]
Why can't we show everyone
how Hebrews and Philistines
can live in peace?
For the first time in my life,
someone asked who I want to be.
You make me believe in a future
I did not think I could have.
Samson.
This is our chance to be free.
Taren.
Marry me.
Your parents
will not approve of it.
If you say yes,
I will stop at nothing
until they give me
their blessing.
Then yes.
Yes? Yes?
[sheep bleating]
[woman] Oh!
I met a girl.
I want to marry her.
Uh, what's her name?
Her name is Taren.
Fro... From our village?
No, she is from Timna.
A Hebrew girl in Timna?
Who's her father?
His name is Aha. He's a
prisoner of the crown.
You couldn't find a suitable
bride in our own tribe?
Instead you choose
a daughter of the enemy?
Have you lost your mind?
I'm not trying to shame you,
Father, or you, Mother.
You have no idea the brutality and
horrors they've brought on us.
But she is not like them.
She is different.
- We are their slaves.
- If you marry her,
you will bring shame
and dishonor to this family.
- [wind whispering]
- [birds chirping]
[animals shrieking]
What do you want from me?
Am I called to lead your people?
Then show me a sign.
[lion snarling]
[growling]
[growling continues]
[roaring]
- [twig snaps]
- [roaring]
No!
[bones crack]
[yells]
[gasping]
You are my savior
and my strength.
Forgive me, my Lord.
Forgive me.
[humming]
- [Delilah] Stop singing.
- Hmm?
Pardon me.
I did not see you.
And what on earth is the cause
of all this smiling and singing?
Does love not sing sweetly?
Take my advice.
Do not trust the love
of a Philistine.
No, my love is a Hebrew,
unlike any other man.
And his love comes
with a proposal.
Marriage?
You are a servant girl
to a Philistine king.
Would it not be permitted?
Our prince would never yield
his servant to a Hebrew.
But he is respected amongst his
community, one of their leaders.
And his name?
Samson.
Samson?
The strongman
is your betrothed?
Yes, my lady.
Have you heard of him?
I have.
Perhaps I can help you.
I will speak with Prince
Rallah on your behalf.
You'd do that for me?
Indeed.
In the name of love.
Thank you.
[man] I have received reports
that the Hebrews are
considering Samson as judge.
The judge of a slave
is still a slave.
- Let them do as they will.
- What would the king say?
What my father thinks
is of no concern to you.
The Hebrew has eyes
for your new servant girl.
Well, she is pleasing
to the eye.
- They plan to marry.
- That would be heresy to Dagon.
Wedding a Philistine
to a Hebrew.
You cannot allow this,
my lord.
But if you were to bless their
union, they would be in your debt.
How do you mean?
Give the girl to the Hebrew, and he
will never raise a hand against you.
The throne would be yours.
This is madness,
my lord.
He would be under my heel.
Let Samson marry.
We shall host
the wedding feast.
My queen is cunning.
And my king strong.
Ashdod,
you may leave.
Yes, my lord.
Give me Samson...
and the throne
will be ours.
[insects buzzing]
[Samson's voice]
Out of the eater,
something to eat.
Out of the strong...
something sweet.
[Taren] At least dance with
your bride-to-be once tonight.
Or did you take a vow
against all fun?
You dance.
I will watch.
[chuckles]
[all shouting]
Samson, my brother,
you look sober.
Here, have a drink.
No. I do not drink.
You do not drink?
Only babies do not drink.
- Should we get him some milk? Maybe a wet nurse.
- Oh.
I said no.
No wine for me.
It is not wine.
Drink with us.
[Ashdod]
It's your wedding. Drink.
[laughing]
You lied.
Just trying
to have some fun.
Impressive, Hebrew.
We all know
about your strength.
Is there anything
more to you?
Anything between those ears?
I have more
than you do.
- Ooh! - Ooh!
- Ooh!
Perhaps a riddle?
[all] Yes.
[Rallah] Yes? A riddle?
At night I come...
without being called.
By day, I am lost...
without being stolen.
What... am... I?
Too difficult?
[laughter]
A star.
All right. My turn.
I have a riddle that I am
sure none of you can solve.
[laughs] Oh.
You challenge 30 men
to a riddle?
Fine. Perhaps a wager.
My people
need clothes.
Your tunics, all of them.
[laughter]
Thirty Philistine tunics.
Fine.
But if you lose,
you owe the same.
And if you don't pay,
it will be your head
or your wife's.
[Samson]
Out of the eater,
something to eat.
Out of the strong,
something sweet.
Is that it?
Is my slave wit
too much for you?
You have until morning
to answer.
Keep those clean,
will you? Oh!
[chuckles]
Come on.
Let us dance. Music.
[music playing]
Did you really think I would
just let you run off and wed
without anything
in return?
"Out of the eater,
something to eat.
Out of the strong,
something sweet."
What does this mean to you?
I know not what you
speak of, my lord.
[gasps]
You lie.
I have watched you,
you know?
Seeing you talk
to your father,
that thief behind the bars.
It is quite
a beautiful bond you have.
Really extraordinary.
What are you saying?
It would be a shame...
if you never see him...
again.
[shuddering]
[Taren] Your riddle,
it confounds them all.
Rallah boasted of his wit,
so I gave him and his men
something to think about.
Let their small minds toil
while we have fun.
- And the answer?
- You will know soon enough.
What bothers you so?
Tomorrow we'll be married,
husband and wife.
There should be
no secrets between us.
No secrets.
Right.
No secrets.
For what
is sweeter than honey?
And what is stronger
than a lion?
There. Does that
solve these troubles?
Ah. There he is.
A groom full
of rare wit and strength.
[Samson] At the bottom of which
barrel did you find my answer?
- You would be surprised.
- [chuckles] Just try me.
For what is sweeter...
than honey?
And what is stronger
than a lion?
How did you...
Remind me again.
What was our wager?
Oh, yes.
- Thirty tunics.
- I do not have them.
Well, then I fear you lose
more than your wager.
- Do not touch her!
- Samson!
Fine. I will find your tunics.
Samson, please.
It wasn't me.
It wasn't me, Samson.
[soldier] Hey!
That water's
not for you, Hebrew.
[men laughing]
This well...
is for pure
Philistine lips.
Have it fouled
by the likes of you
makes me sick.
[men laughing]
I said, get your dirty hands
off our water
and move along!
Give me your tunic.
What did you say?
Your tunic. Give it to me.
Have you lost
your mind, Hebrew?
I could leave your corpse
here for the crows
and finish my drink
without a second thought!
Hey.
He's dead.
He's dead.
Your tunics.
I want all of them.
He's insane.
Put this dog down!
[all yelling]
[panting]
They cannot hurt you anymore.
You're free.
It's me, Samson.
Our God was with us today.
Help me gather their tunics.
Wait. Please!
I cannot touch the dead.
I cannot break my vow.
Rallah! Rallah!
My debt is paid.
Now, where is Taren?
[Ashdod]
Philistine tunics, sir.
There is blood.
Where is my wife?
You have no wife.
You did not return in time
to finish the ceremony.
Dagon law requires
once a wedding has begun,
it must be completed.
- I had to stand in your place.
- If you even touched her...
Now, since you've murdered my
men and stolen their clothes,
you will spend the rest
of your very short life
working in the mines.
[laughs]
Arrest this man.
[soldier] Sound the alarm!
[bell ringing]
[soldier]
Get back here, Samson!
Stay close and find him!
[animal shrieking]
[shrieks]
[shrieking]
[shrieking]
[soldier]
The crops are burning!
Why do you stand there?
Draw your bows!
There's no one there, sir.
What?
Then who starts
the fires?
[soldier] The fire,
it moves on its own.
[Ashdod] Wake the prince.
[shrieking]
[shrieking continues]
What is this?
Rallah!
Release Taren,
or all your fields will burn!
- [Ashdod] Samson!
- [Taren] Samson!
- No!
- Hebrew!
Taren!
I release them!
Samson!
- [crying, screams]
- Taren!
[crying]
- No!
- [clattering]
[crying continues]
Forgive me.
- [horse whinnies]
- [Ashdod] Samson!
Samson!
Samson!
- I don't know.
- Samson!
Give me Samson
or your village burns.
He's not here.
I know you.
Manoah,
father of Samson.
Take him.
Are you sure
you want to bring all of Judah
into a war against you?
If Samson does not show,
he will find himself
without a father.
And you will find yourselves
without a village.
I know where he is.
Go. Go.
Brother.
Please, leave me.
God's not done with you.
For years,
I pleaded with God.
I asked him if you're truly
the one to deliver us all.
For years,
I'd never hear anything.
And then one night...
I heard
a still, small voice.
I looked around.
I was certain someone
had spoken words,
but there
was no one there.
And then
it happened again.
A voice so clear,
a voice
with divine certainty
that said I would witness
my brother free our people
with the strength
of his hands.
I know that you
will save us, Brother.
The only question is, when?
I have broken my vows.
It is over.
It's not over.
Summon your strength,
Brother.
They have father.
They've come here to hand
you over to the crown
in exchange for peace.
And if I surrender,
will Rallah free Father?
Surrender is not
the solution, Brother.
Then what is?
Make the men of Judah
your army.
They will fight for you,
and so will we.
Today's the day, Samson.
Today the prophecy
is fulfilled.
You are Samson
of the tribe of Dan,
chosen by God Almighty
and set apart.
His hand of vengeance
against the Philistines.
You are right, Brother.
My hands will save our people.
No, Brother.
No.
- Stand and fight.
- Brother.
[kicks legs]
[Rallah] Your loyalty
to the king is acknowledged.
Your village
will be spared.
Before your head hits the
ground, your village will burn.
And your father...
will be waiting for you.
- [groans]
- No!
No!
Draw!
Protect the prince!
Kill the Hebrew!
[soldiers yelling]
God, give me strength.
[yells]
Move! He's mine!
[groaning]
Go.
Bring me his head!
[blowing]
[yells]
[screaming]
Lord, hear my prayer.
[yells]
[Rallah] Get him!
Get his head!
He's the beast!
Lord, I'm
your humble servant.
Do not abandon me now.
Make thy strength
be my strength!
His god is with him!
He's invincible!
[yells]
Samson.
Dagon!
[flesh squishes]
[yells]
[jawbone drops]
Samson, son of Manoah,
chosen by God since birth
to bring deliverance
to your people...
I anoint you.
[birds squawk]
[grunts]
Aah!
[Rallah]
He has the strength of a god.
I saw it
with my own eyes.
Your eye deceives you.
- Did you see him bleed?
- Yes.
Then he is not a god!
Go tell the Hebrews
that we will not retaliate
if Samson swears
to end his violence!
Go. Get out
of my sight, boy.
- You child!
- [door slams]
[grunting]
You are not a god!
You risk Dagon's wrath.
I do not fear Dagon
or my father.
You fear another.
I have seen a real god...
in a real man.
That is power.
I will take Samson's power.
And you're going
to help me.
[narrator] Samson was
at last anointed the judge
and protector of our people.
The king sent no army
against us,
but the theft of our food
did not stop.
Prince Rallah was
sent far to the west
to lead campaigns into Egypt
as punishment.
But upon his return years later,
our tribes were once again
beset with violence
and pushed to the brink
of starvation.
[Samson] For years I have said
our only hope is in peace.
[man] Peace?
Our share of the coming harvest
can no longer feed us.
For years we have
listened to you.
We have barely endured,
yet nothing has changed.
It's time for war.
No. War only brings
suffering to our people.
I will leave to Gaza
to negotiate peace.
What you call peace,
I call starvation.
Our only hope is to rally the other
tribes and prepare for an attack.
God did not call you from the
womb to be a politician, Brother.
He gave you the strength
to fight like no man ever has.
I will return with freedom,
or I will not return at all.
[chattering]
[Rallah]
This is an outrage.
I determine
what is outrage.
I define what is
at risk to my kingdom.
He comes here
to negotiate.
He will leave in peace,
because it is my wish,
thus my command,
my decree, my authority.
Do you not see where this
argument is going? To the door.
Rallah.
You've returned.
[Balek]
Mighty Samson.
At last we meet.
May I offer you
some wine or some food?
A jawbone
of a donkey perhaps.
My son is around here
somewhere, is he not?
I'm here to negotiate
for the people I serve.
The same people you starve.
In order to negotiate, one must have
something to negotiate with, must he not?
What do you have
to offer my kingdom?
Peace.
True peace
between our people.
Reduce the tribute. Give back the
harvest that is rightfully ours.
Or else what?
You will face the wrath of God.
So you threaten me
with natural phenomenon,
freakish acts,
and the weather.
Mock me, if you will.
But you will not be laughing when you
have another thousand soldiers to bury.
I have rebuilt my army
three times since.
And the only reason
that you draw breath
is because I have not given
the order to take it.
I reject your offer.
Then you choose war.
I think we both know
that war is not
in your best interest.
Unless, of course, you choose to see
more of your loved ones perish.
This is my offer to you.
Disappear.
You disappear,
and the harvest will be
returned to your people.
You ask me
to leave my people?
You have
a choice, Samson.
Stay and watch
your people suffer, die...
or go away...
and have them flourish.
Make haste
out of the city.
Tell my brother...
Tell him I'll return when I
change the king's heart.
But you cannot linger here.
If these people
even suspect who you are...
Trust in God.
He will show us the way.
Now, go. Hurry.
A Hebrew who sits
in council with the King.
You must be mistaken.
My lord, forgive my manners.
I'm the proprietor
of a nearby inn
where important men like you
can rest and pray.
We're very discreet.
We ask no questions.
What manner of inn is this?
Nothing indecent,
I promise, my lord.
[man groaning]
[music playing]
- [clattering]
- [cheering]
[sighs]
- [music continues]
- [chattering]
I never would've come here had you been
honest about the sort of inn you run.
I must speak with you.
You're in the wrong room.
Go back to your madam.
Samson, please.
I've come here to warn you.
You're in grave danger.
Wait.
I know you.
Yes.
You were at my wedding feast.
You were with Rallah.
Yes, I was.
But that was before I knew
what he was capable of.
I've since left
his service.
What are you doing here?
I saw you on the street
by chance.
I saw you enter here.
[men shouting]
Samson, the city
knows you're here.
The people are hunting for
you even now, laying traps.
[soldier] Go find him!
Did Rallah put you
up to this?
I'm not with Rallah.
I don't believe you.
You're lying.
[soldier] Over there!
[Samson]
Why would you help me?
Would you be so cruel to
make me lay my heart bare?
I spoke no lie.
I saw you in the street
and I remembered.
Taren.
What about Taren?
She was sweet...
and innocent...
and pure.
And for that,
the gods smiled on her
and gave her
the gift of a good man.
And I envied her, for I knew I would
never be allowed such a gift.
Broken as I am.
Forgive me.
He's awake!
You're not one of my girls!
Kill them both!
Come.
[yells]
That's him.
The Hebrew killer Samson!
Avenge your brothers
and your sons!
Kill him!
Kill him!
In here.
[soldier] Hurry up!
[soldier]
He killed my brother!
[men shouting]
What am I doing?
I cannot go back
to my people as a failure.
I cannot stay here.
The king advises me to vanish.
God tells me nothing!
[soldier]
He killed my brother!
I have a house
in the valley of Sorek.
You'll be safe there while you
wait for your god's answer.
[soldier] There he is!
Make for the village
of Balsam.
I will meet you on the road.
Stay here.
They're not after you.
Get him!
Where is he?
Where is he?
We'll find him.
He must have run
that way.
We need to find him.
He's here!
Rally to me! I see him!
Rally to me!
Rally to me!
Don't let him get away!
Kill the heathen!
Kill him! Kill him!
Kill him!
Where are you going to run?
Catch him!
There he is! Kill him!
Aah!
[man]
Burn that dirty beast!
[yells]
Kill the heathen!
No! No!
[yelling]
Come on, men!
Kill him!
Lord.
Your servant calls
upon you once more.
Kill him!
With your strength...
protect me.
[yelling]
[rumbling]
[yelling]
[yells]
Let them witness.
Let them witness the strength...
of the living...
God.
[woman laughs]
[Taren] Samson.
[laughs]
[Samson] Taren.
My love.
- What are you doing?
- No. Lay still.
You must rest.
[mutters]
You're awake.
You have been asleep
for two days.
Your wounds were grave,
but I did what I could.
I thought you
were someone else.
Taren.
You said her name many times.
You truly loved her.
Why do you help me?
Are you not a Philistine?
I found you alone and in pain.
I know what that feels like.
And you would help someone
without anything in return?
Takes a woman full of true
kindness to do such things,
especially for a Hebrew.
I must go.
Please, stay
until you're healed.
- No, I should not impose any further.
- It is no imposition.
Let me prepare you
some food.
Please stay.
What is your name?
Delilah.
Delilah.
I owe you my life.
Thank you.
[kisses]
[bird squawking]
I thought you were dead.
I feel
I should be, Mother.
Come in, Son.
Sit down. Sit down.
I'll get some food.
I have not protected
those I love.
God has
protected us, Samson.
I have broken
my vows to God.
I have killed.
Drank of the vine.
Has God forsaken me?
He'll never forsake you.
He will always forgive.
I am beyond
his forgiveness.
Oh, Son, listen.
Within God's forgiveness
is his power.
And your call
is still with you,
but you must pursue
his desires, not your own.
Listen to him.
Please, pray for me.
Always I pray for my children.
[thunder rumbling]
[soldier] We'll be back
tomorrow for the rest.
We trusted you.
And you stand there
and do nothing.
[thunder rumbling]
When Samson
killed a thousand,
we gathered
as many weapons as possible.
Majority of them remain
hidden in the woods.
Well done, Caleb.
We can't wait anymore.
This sword has not seen a
Hebrew hand for a generation.
And that is far too long,
my friend.
The king thinks we are weak.
His defenses are down.
No.
We are weak.
Not if I get Samson
to agree.
This is madness, and it
will end in our slaughter.
When did we stop believing
in our God?
This land was promised to us,
and we shall fight for it.
Either join us
or stay free of our course.
You leave again
so soon after weeks away.
- Don't tell me it's another Philistine.
- None of your concern, Brother.
Have you no regard
of your sacred vows?
You just travel from one bed to
another while God's people suffer.
You have no understanding
of what it is you speak.
This burden is far too great for
your small shoulders to bear.
Curve your judgment of me, Brother.
I warn you.
- Let me be.
- Let you be what exactly?
I tried.
I did, but I failed
many times over.
And I am done with failing.
God's not done with you.
The men are finally
ready to fight.
All we need from you, Brother,
is to lead us.
I will not lead them, you,
or anyone to certain death.
[knocking]
You came back.
I had
to see you again.
Please, come in.
[Samson, Delilah laughing]
I wonder if this is
what peace feels like.
Ah, peace is a dream
I can no longer feel.
Then tell me,
what do you feel?
Sorrow.
Loss.
I have known
my share of the same.
What if we were
to leave all this behind?
Begin again,
with no expectations.
Where would you go?
Goshen. Egypt.
See the cities of Joseph.
Kush, maybe, where they
have creatures tall as trees.
But you would never
leave your people.
I would have to force you
or bind you.
[chuckles]
As if anything
could ever bind you.
What if there was something
that could bind me?
Tell me,
and I will take you to all
those places tomorrow.
This would please you? To bind me
and make me like any other man.
You could never be like
any other man, bound or not.
Then tie me up
with fresh ropes,
ones that have
never been used,
and I will be like
any other man.
And you can take me
wherever you wish.
[Rallah] What good has come
from your time with Samson?
His loyalty seems to be
his only weakness.
If it is a weakness.
Do I need to remind you
who this man is, Delilah?
He is our enemy.
He's not out
to destroy us, Rallah,
only to protect those
he holds dear.
Let him be.
Do you have feelings
for him?
Don't be silly.
There was once a little sparrow
who stared all day long
through the bars of her cage,
longing to take flight.
When the chance arose,
she left her shelter.
But before she could
reach the sky,
a hawk descended upon her
and tore her apart,
piece by piece.
Let us finish
what we started.
Are you certain that the Hebrews
intend to attack the crown?
Yes, my king.
We swear on our lives.
A group of men have been
hiding weapons in my village.
Oh, this will be
a significant attack, my king.
We appreciate your protection
and good graces.
And you may continue to...
[heads rolling]
[chuckles]
[kisses]
What is wrong?
Delilah?
Why do you
keep things from me?
Keep things from you?
Yes.
You say you love me, but you refuse
to share your innermost secrets.
What secrets?
Who is this god who gives
you such strength?
Why does he allow
your people to suffer so?
Is he a cruel god, or are
you just a foolish people?
- Delilah.
- If we are to be together, I should trust you.
- But how can I trust you when you have lied to me.
- How have I lied?
You deceived me
about the fresh ropes.
I was playing along,
remember?
Were there secrets
with Taren?
Are there to be secrets
between us?
I'm a Nazirite.
What does that mean?
Three vows
were bestowed upon me.
No wine.
No touching the dead.
No cutting of my hair.
I've broken two of them.
If I were to cut my hair...
I fear my strength
would leave me.
Your hair?
Yes.
Now there are no secrets.
This is for Samson,
from the crown.
He-yah!
You seem quiet.
What is the matter?
Nothing, my love.
Thank you.
Enough.
I love you.
You know that.
And I you.
Samson, the Philistines
are upon you.
Samson!
- No!
- [yells]
Aah!
My hand!
[Delilah]
Please, do not hurt him!
Please!
Samson!
Samson!
Samson's little brother.
- I'm going to let you watch.
- [grunting]
[sobbing]
[Delilah] No.
Brother. Brother!
Rallah.
[yells]
You were a man
to be feared, Samson.
Look at you now.
I will prove to your god,
I am worthy of his power.
I will take your place
in his favor.
[Delilah]
Rallah, you promised.
No.
No.
Rallah. Rallah!
- [Delilah] No!
- Rallah!
- No! Rallah!
- No!
[Samson yelling]
[Caleb] Samson!
[whimpering]
Rallah!
Caleb.
Forgive me.
Once again, I have failed.
I did what was right
in my own eyes.
I deserve this.
I want you to know.
- [sobbing]
- [sobbing]
[clattering]
[Rallah]
Samson, Samson, Samson.
The greatest warrior
ever known,
yet look at you now.
What a waste.
Do what you came here for.
I'm not here
to kill you, Samson.
I'm here to free you
and your brother.
All you must do is tell me how
I may receive your power.
Stand him up.
- [yells]
- [grunting]
Your secret.
Tell me.
There is no secret.
My power is from God.
Then petition
your god for me.
Tell him that I conquered you,
that I am more worthy,
that I deserve his strength.
- [grunts]
- Tell him,
or I will rend your flesh
and feed you to the rats!
A just punishment for my sins.
[spits]
Do what you will.
[grunts] Tell me!
Tell me!
I will have the truth!
- Now!
- Please!
Stop!
I'll tell you.
Tell me what I must do.
Fear the living God.
Humble yourself.
Or he will humble you.
[yells]
Why? Why have you not
brought me his head?
Samson is my trophy.
You have captured
a beloved leader.
You must kill him
before they come for him.
- That would be a waste.
- Waste?
Word of Samson's power has
spread from Persia to Thebes.
And now they will know
that we have conquered him.
Conquered him.
We use him to show his people
and anyone who challenges us
that we are greater
than their gods.
I will be feared everywhere.
I fear you...
Year after year,
we will celebrate his
humiliation and the triumph.
- My triumph over his god...
- Triumph? Triumph?
You imbecile.
You've learned nothing.
You know nothing.
[flesh squishes]
Father.
You no longer rule over me
or this kingdom.
I may not have your wisdom,
your experience,
or even your love,
but I have your crown!
And this is a glory
I wish not to share with you.
My son the king.
[body thuds]
You have a visitor, Hebrews.
It is me, my love.
I'm here to pay
for your release.
Paid with the silver
that put me here.
Rallah misled me.
I believed I could free you,
but I was wrong.
I will give back every piece
of silver for your release.
Show your love for me now.
Free Caleb instead of me.
I cannot leave you here.
Free him...
and you can have
my forgiveness.
[sniffles]
I will always love you.
Delilah.
Oh!
You were right, Caleb.
We should fight.
Gather the men.
Prepare to take the city.
But how can I without you?
With the power God
has placed within you.
He has not abandoned me, Caleb,
because I am in these chains.
Even inside these walls
I hear his call.
And maybe for the first time,
I'm hearing his desires
and not my own.
I love you.
I love you, Brother. Oh!
- [door slams]
- [chains clanging]
My strength
is now your strength.
My eyes yours.
You have called me from birth,
and now I listen.
What would you have me do?
Oh!
[chattering]
[Rallah] I am your mighty king
who, with the power of Dagon,
have subjugated
even the strongest man.
Are you ready
for our special guest?
- [crowd] Yes!
- [cheering]
- Bring the prisoner.
- [crowd jeering]
[jeering continues]
[woman] Kill him!
Kill him!
- Murderer!
- Kill him!
Kill him!
Boo!
Murderer!
Kill him!
Kill him!
[cheering]
Dagon's arm is mighty
and his vengeance swift.
Praise be to Dagon.
[crowd]
Praise be to Dagon!
Praise be to Dagon!
[groans]
[screams]
[screams]
[man] Kill him!
String him up! Come on!
[laughing]
[crowd] Murderer!
Lord.
Give me your strength
one last time.
Let me die with the Philistines.
[thunder rumbling]
No.
[crowd chanting]
Kill him! Kill him!
Kill the prisoner.
- [thunder rumbling]
- [Rallah] Kill him!
Kill him!
[yelling]
[screaming]
[yelling]
Kill him!
[yelling]
[yelling]
No!
[Caleb narrating] On that day,
my brother heard God's call.
He fulfilled the promise
that was given before his birth.
To our people,
it was a day for joy.
Free at last from
the Philistine tyrant, Rallah.
But for us who knew Samson
as a brother and as a son,
it was a day to mourn
the passing of a good man.
A man whose heart
was as vast as his strength.
Brothers! Hebrews!
Today we fight!
God is with us!
God is with us!
[chanting]
Samson! Samson! Samson!
Samson! Samson!
Samson! Samson! Samson!
Many battles were yet to be
fought over the Promised Land.
The Philistines
sent their armies,
but the tribes of Israel
had awakened.
We'd seen miracles done,
and we knew then that no force
could stand against us,
for the strength and the faith
of Samson was within us all.
God gave us Samson
to begin our deliverance.
But who would he send
to finish it?
A generation later,
a small shepherd boy named David
stepped onto the battlefield
and challenged an
undefeatable Philistine giant.
The time had come.
God had at long last
chosen a Hebrew king.
[man] I've been through
The rain and the storm
Been down
That same broken road
Left me once
And a whole lot more
I keep searching
Till I find my home
[woman]
I have walked through
Victory's gates
Never fear though
The lion's cave
Won each battle
But lost my soul
Still searching
Till I find my home
[vocalizing]
[man, woman]
Saw me stronger
Than the love and faith
Played with fire
Like it was only a game
Always faithful
Led me through it all
I can hear it
Redemption's call
[vocalizing]
[woman] Said you'd
Never leave me, no
Said you'd
Never leave me, no
Said you'd
Never leave me, no
Said you'd
Never leave me, no
[vocalizing]
I can hear it
Redemption's call
No more searching
Finally made it home
[song ends]
[ballad intro]
[man]
I thought I'd lost my way
Beyond the grip of grace
And in my imperfection
Your love changed
My direction
So now I break off
These chains
For there is power
In your name
You are my strength
You are my victory
I will not fear
I know you're with me
In every grave
You resurrect me
You are my strength
You are my victory
No fear of failure stands
Inside your promises
Your power never lacking
Your presence everlasting
So I can rise in your name
To bring you glory
And praise
You are my strength
You are my victory
I will not fear
I know you're with me
In every grave
You resurrect me
You are my strength
You are my victory
[song ends]