Original subtitles

♪♪

CALEB: 400 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.

♪♪

(bird screeches)

(indistinct chatter)

PRIEST: Oh, great Dagon, lord of battles,

bestower of wealth and bountiful harvests.

Look upon your people, the Philistines of Gaza.

(crowd cheering)

We are gathered here at your feet

to bring you gifts

gathered by the hands of the Hebrews.

- Move. Move. - PRIEST: Who gave unto us

- to conquer and command! - (cheering)

Look how easily the Hebrews forsake their God

and serve Dagon.

They grew this food... (continues indistinctly)

(sighing)

- (objects scraping) - (gasps quietly)

CALEB (whispering): Throw away the outside.

Cook the inside, then eat the outside.

What is it?

SAMSON: What approaches with a stalk

but has ears that cannot hear?

That riddle's almost as bad as this plan, brother.

- (Samson chuckling) - (indistinct chatter nearby)

SOLDIER: Move along.

(priest continues speaking indistinctly in distance)

SAMSON: What has flesh but no blood,

and a heart made of stone?

CALEB: Are you talking about the olives or Father?

(Samson chuckling)

SOLDIER: Hey. Hebrew.

What are you doing back there?

I'm, uh... (clears throat)

I'm waiting for my master.

- He prays in the temple. - CALEB: Samson.

What's happening?

SOLDIER: Then why do you hide your face?

- Remove your hood. - CALEB: Hey, brother.

SOLDIER: Hebrew, show yourself.

CALEB: 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.

- (Caleb yells; thud) - Why would I resist?

(Samson grunts)

(chuckles)

- (grunts) - CALEB: Samson!

- (grunting, yelling) - Samson!

(grunting and groaning)

SOLDIER: Thieves! Thieves in the temple!

- Harder to catch, the faster I run. - Get them!

- What am I? - Too easy.

Your breath.

(grunts)

(crowd chanting indistinctly)

(crowd gasping, murmuring)

- SOLDIER: Get those thieves! - 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.

Get them!

This way!

Don't let them escape!

Stop him, you fool!

(grunting)

(yells)

(crowd gasping, murmuring)

(excited murmuring)

- (chuckling) - No!

PRIEST: No!

No!

(bell tolling)

Brother, this way.

(Samson chuckling)

(panting)

- (laughing) - Come back here! - Thank you.

BOTH: This way to the gate.

BOTH: Where you going? It's this way.

SOLDIER: Split up!

There they go! - They went into the alley! The alley!

There's nowhere to run, Hebrew!

- (Samson yells) - (soldier groans)

Get him, get him! Quick!

(grunting and groaning)

Morning, ladies.

(chuckling)

What do we have here?

SOLDIER: There he is!

- Thief! - (onlookers gasping)

Uh... I'll be right back.

This should only take a moment. Come on!

Come back here!

- Come back here, thief! - (chuckling)

(laughs)

Whoa! Oh.

What happened to you?

- Let's never speak of this. - SOLDIER: There!

- There he is! - (chuckles) Go!

Get back here, thieves!

CALEB: This way, brother!

(gasping, indistinct chatter)

(laughing)

♪♪

SOLDIER: Hebrews!

If this month's tribute falls short,

- next month will be double! - (villagers gasping)

(grunting, frantic chatter)

- (man yells) - (shouting)

(screams)

Get out!

I know you have more! Where is it?!

No. Stop.

- Where is Samson? - He will be here.

(quiet chatter)

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. - (gasps quietly)

(yells in pain)

(gasping)

(Tobias groaning)

- (gasping) - (body thuds on ground)

Does anyone else desire mercy?

(villagers crying, murmuring quietly)

(crying, whimpering)

- Back to work. - Back to work!

(sobbing)

(Samson chuckles)

SAMSON: Made you wish, little brother.

(chuckles)

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.

ZEALPHONIS: 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 for 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.

- (donkey braying) - (crowd shouting in distance)

Don't even think about it.

(donkey 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 (in distance): Pathetic!

I have fought men from every land.

These Hebrews and their puny God

are like fighting children!

Send two against me!

- (laughter) - God Dagon guarantees

many returns.

Support your Hebrew fighters.

Fight well, gentlemen.

A hundred manehs.

Let the fighting begin.

(grunting)

(grunting and groaning)

(cheering)

(man groans)

Brother, think.

Why would they bring this monster if not to draw you out?

Something's not right here.

(grunting and groaning)

I'm just gonna take a look.

What's the harm in that?

(sighs)

The last time you said that, I cracked two of my...

Yeah!

(cheering)

(grunting)

Father.

The fights turn my stomach.

Can I please be excused?

There are many fine nobles here with deep pockets.

Mingle with them, hmm?

Uh, and try to smile.

- (yells) - (crowd cheers)

You people are weak!

And deserve an even weaker God. (yells)

Our God is not weak.

And neither are His people.

- (crowd murmuring) - Look, it's Samson. - Samson.

JODEL: Ooh... the Hebrew champion.

A bag of silver for the victor.

Only one?

Do you have such little faith in your god?

JODEL: All right.

Two bags of silver, then.

Samson, Father will be furious.

Brother, are you listening?

- JODEL: Ten to one! - (crowd cheering)

(Jodel continues speaking indistinctly)

CROWD: Bolcom! Bolcom! Bolcom!

Bolcom! Bolcom! Bolcom! Bolcom!

(cheering)

(coins clinking)

♪♪

Bets are closed.

Let the fighting begin.

(grunts, groans)

CALEB: Brother.

Are you all right?

Find out who she is, and I will be.

CROWD: Bolcom! Bolcom! Bolcom!

Bolcom! Bolcom!

(grunting)

- Bolcom! Bolcom! Bolcom! - (Bolcom yells)

Where is your Hebrew champion now, huh?

Dagon has proven his power.

And I have proven mine.

(cheering)

(thunder rumbling)

SAMSON: God...

give me Your strength.

My name is Samson.

My name is Samson,

and I serve the Living God.

(Bolcom grunts)

And you have proven nothing.

(Bolcom yells)

(yells)

Yield! The silver is yours.

Just... just put the rock down.

CROWD: Samson! Samson! Samson!

(grunts)

(panting)

- (cheering) - (Samson yells)

Yeah!

- (chuckling) - Samson! Samson! Samson!

Brother!

(laughing)

♪♪

(villagers murmuring)

CALEB: 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 is doing what he sees as right.

He only sees what's right in front of him.

That's all.

Halt!

Halt for the prince.

RALLAH: Well, if it is not

the greatest fighter riches can buy.

- (horse neighs) - RALLAH: Shh.

JODEL: Lord, you hired us to draw him out.

We never promised victory.

Right.

Right you are.

(Rallah chuckles)

You there.

Your master has cost me quite a lot today.

- JODEL: 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... (laughs) not all of you.

- (groaning) - (screaming, gasping)

(sighs)

(sobbing)

RALLAH: The 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?

(chuckling)

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.

(door opens)

(door closes)

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 the spark before it becomes a blaze.

- Yes, my king. - Huh. (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?

(chuckles) This is the best view in all of Israel.

CALEB: You need to turn your eyes and mind

towards things that matter, brother.

I am appreciating God's creation.

What could possibly be more important than that?

CALEB: Fulfilling your destiny.

- Becoming judge. - No, there is no judge.

You carry the anointing.

I'm not ready.

(Caleb sighs)

We're never ready.

What are you smiling at?

I found her.

(gasps) Oh.

Little brother, now, this is good news.

Her name is Taren. She's in Gaza.

And even worse, she's a servant of Rallah.

I must relieve her of that.

- No, you must not. - No, I must.

- One more thing. - What?

You must not tell Mother.

(Samson chuckling)

(birds cawing)

(crowd murmuring)

♪♪

♪♪

(sighs, shudders)

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.

(Taren scoffs)

Are you sure that was not because of his punch?

(Samson chuckles)

No. The only reason he landed that punch

was because I was distracted... by you.

(chuckles)

They say that those who tangle with you

leave wishing they had not.

(bell rings)

The prince. Um, I must go.

Wait. Do you know the cliffs by the beach?

Where the path from Gaza meets the sea?

Yes.

They are beautiful.

(bell ringing)

Meet me there tomorrow at first light.

- Please? - (Taren chuckles)

(chuckles softly)

How long must we wait for God

to deliver us from this oppression?

He has already revealed His chosen one.

It is Samson.

- Well, where is he, then? - He should be here.

Samson does not want to be judge.

MAN: It is better this way.

He is unfit to lead.

How can God choose a barbarian that chases after woman

like it is his birthright?

And may I add, I'm grateful he has eyes

for the Philistine maidens and not our own.

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.

Shall I have him remove it from you?

From her?

From all of you?

(crowd murmuring)

(scoffs)

SAMSON: I was beginning to wonder if you would show.

TAREN: 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.

(chuckling): Oh. Is that so?

Yes, that is so.

Do you consider me a liar?

No, I'm not saying you would lie, but...

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 chuckle)

TAREN: Can I ask you something?

SAMSON: Of course.

TAREN: 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,

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.

(both chuckle)

(birds squawking)

(crowd murmuring)

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 yet tasks me with the act

of suppressing a slave rebellion.

It is a fool's errand.

I should be leading armies into Sidon, Midian, 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.

(grunts angrily)

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 chuckling)

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 made me believe in a future I did not think I could have.

Samson.

This is our chance to be free.

Taren...

marry me.

(chuckles)

Your parents will not approve of this.

If you say yes, I will stop at nothing

until they give me their blessing.

Then yes.

- (Taren chuckles) - Yes? Yes?

(sheep bleating)

- ZEALPHONIS: Oh... - (Samson chuckling)

(all chuckling)

I met a girl.

I want to marry her.

Uh, what's her name?

Her name is Taren.

Uh, f-from our village?

No, she is from Timnah.

A Hebrew girl in Timnah?

Who's her father?

His name is Ahar.

He is 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.

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.

♪♪

(birds chirping)

♪♪

What do You want from me?

Am I called to lead Your people?

Then show me a sign.

(fierce growling nearby)

(gruff breathing, footsteps)

(low snarling)

(roaring)

(birds cawing, wings fluttering)

- (twig snaps) - (lion roars)

No!

(screaming)

- (bones snapping) - (Samson grunts)

(Samson panting)

(grunts with effort)

(panting)

You are my savior and my strength.

Forgive me, my Lord.

Forgive me.

(humming a tune)

(Taren chuckles)

- 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, milady. 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.

ASHDOD: 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.

ASHDOD: Yes, my lord.

Give me Samson,

and the throne will be ours.

(birds chirping)

(bees buzzing)

SAMSON: Out of the eater,

something to eat.

Out of the strong,

something sweet.

(festive music playing)

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.

(Samson chuckles)

(crowd chattering, cheering)

RALLAH: Samson.

My brother, you look sober.

Here, have a drink.

No. I do not drink.

You do not drink?

(chuckling): 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.

(chuckling)

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?

(laughter)

SAMSON: I have more than you do.

- (guests oohing) - (music stops)

- Perhaps, uh, a riddle? - GUESTS: 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?

(guests laughing)

A star.

(guests chuckling, murmuring)

All right, my turn.

I have a riddle that I am sure none of you can solve.

(laughter, murmuring)

You challenge 30 men to a riddle?

Fine.

Perhaps a wager.

My people need clothes.

Your tunics... all of them.

(laughter)

30 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?

(chuckles)

You have until morning to answer.

Keep those clean, will you?

Oh! (chuckles)

Come on.

Let us dance.

Music.

(band plays festive music)

(chuckles)

(Samson laughs)

(chuckles softly)

RALLAH: 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.

(Taren gasps)

You lie.

I have watched you, you know?

Seeing you talk to your father,

that beast 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: The 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?

TAREN: 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?

(kiss)

♪♪

(birds chirping)

(quiet chatter)

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.

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.

30 tunics.

I do not have them.

Well, then I fear you lose more than your wager.

- (gasps) Samson. - Do not touch her!

(chuckling)

Fine.

I will find your tunics.

Samson, please.

It wasn't me.

It wasn't me, Samson.

♪♪

(birds chirping)

(panting)

SOLDIER: Oi!

That water's not for you, Hebrew.

(soldiers laughing)

This well is for pure Philistine lips.

Have it fouled by the likes of you

makes me sick.

(soldiers 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!

SOLDIER: Hey.

(Samson yells)

(soldiers murmuring)

He's dead.

He's dead.

(murmuring)

Your tunics.

I want all of them.

He's insane.

Put this dog down.

(soldiers yelling)

(grunting and groaning)

(yelling)

(grunting and groaning continue)

(bones crunching)

(grunting and groaning continue)

♪♪

(panting)

They cannot hurt you anymore.

- (quiet whimpering) - SAMSON: 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.

♪♪

SAMSON: 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... - Uh...

RALLAH: 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.

(Rallah laughing)

- Arrest this man. - (soldier grunting)

(indistinct shouting)

(bell tolling)

(soldiers shouting)

SOLDIER: Get back here, Samson!

Get him!

(indistinct shouting continues in distance)

(water burbling)

(groans softly)

(high-pitched animal cry)

(whimpering, panting)

(fox cries)

(panting)

(foxes crying)

(high-pitched cries, whimpering)

(foxes yelping)

(foxes' loud, high-pitched cries)

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.

(foxes' cries continue)

What is this?

Rallah!

Release Taren!

Or all your fields will burn!

(foxes yelping and crying in distance)

(Taren screams)

TAREN: Samson!

No!

Hebrew!

Taren!

I release them!

- Samson! - (soldiers laughing)

(Taren sobs, screams)

Taren!

(Taren screaming)

♪♪

(panting)

(sobbing)

- (screams) - (bottle shatters)

(sobbing)

Forgive me.

♪♪

- (horse neighing) - ASHDOD: Samson!

Samson!

WOMAN: No!

Samson!

- MAN: I don't know. - Samson!

(villagers gasping, murmuring)

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.

CALEB (softly): Father...

I think I know where he is.

Go. Go.

(bird screeching)

(panting quietly)

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's 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. - (grunts)

♪♪

- (kicks) - (grunting)

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.

- (squishing thud) - (groans)

No!

(chuckles)

No...!

(thunder crashing)

(grunting)

Draw!

(both yell)

Protect the prince!

Kill the Hebrew!

(soldiers shouting)

God, give me strength.

(yells)

(fierce grunt)

(soldiers yelling)

(grunting and groaning)

Move! He's mine!

(grunting)

(groans)

(strained grunting)

(body thuds)

Go.

Bring me his head!

(bellowing)

(soldiers yelling)

(grunts)

(yells)

(yells)

(grunting and groaning)

(soldiers yelling)

(grunting and groaning continue)

(yells)

(screaming)

Lord, hear my prayer.

(all yelling)

(grunting and groaning)

(soldiers yelling)

(grunting and groaning continue)

SOLDIER: Get him!

(grunting and groaning continue)

(indistinct shouting)

SOLDIER: He's only one man!

(soldiers shouting indistinctly)

(grunting and groaning continue)

- (yelling) - SOLDIER: Get him! Get him!

He's defeated!

(soldiers yelling)

(panting)

Lord, I'm Your humble servant.

Do not abandon me now.

Be my strength.

Be... my... strength!

(thunder rumbling)

(grunting)

(yells)

(yelling)

SOLDIER: His God is with him.

He's invincible!

(gasps)

(yells)

♪♪

(yells)

♪♪

(yells)

(yells)

(yells)

(panting)

♪♪

Samson.

(grunting)

RALLAH: Dagon!

(grunting)

- (yells) - (thud)

(Samson yells)

(panting)

(water trickling)

♪♪

Samson...

son of Manoah,

chosen by God since birth

to bring deliverance to your people.

I anoint you.

(vultures screeching)

(groans)

(yells)

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 shut)

(grunting angrily)

You... are... not...

a... god!

(grunts)

(panting)

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.

CALEB: 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. - 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. - SAMSON: No.

War only brings suffering to our people.

I will leave to Gaza to negotiate peace.

What you call peace, I call starvation.

WADESH: Our only hope is to rally the other tribes

and prepare for an attack.

CALEB: 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.

♪♪

(villagers murmuring)

(donkey braying)

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 returned.

KING BALEK: Mighty Samson.

At last we meet.

May I offer you some wine or some food?

Ajawbone of a donkey, perhaps.

My son is around here somewhere, is he not?

SAMSON: 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 and die,

or go away

and have them flourish.

(villagers chattering)

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 muttering)

(festive music playing)

(lively chatter and laughter)

(clattering)

(sighs)

I never would have 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.

- (crowd clamoring outside) - MAN: Where is he? Hebrew!

Samson, the city knows you're here.

The people are hunting

for you even now, laying traps.

MAN: Go find him!

Did Rallah put you up to this?

I'm not with Rallah.

I don't believe you.

- You're lying. - MAN: Over there!

SAMSON: Why would you help me?

Will 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. - (door bangs open)

He's awake.

You're not one of my girls.

Kill them both!

SAMSON: Come.

(grunts)

That's him.

- The Hebrew killer Samson. - Find him. - Where is he?

Avenge your brothers and your sons. Kill him!

Kill him!

(crowd clamoring)

In here.

MAN: Where is he?

- (clamoring) - MAN: Find him!

MAN: Hurry, now!

MAN: He killed my brother!

Find him!

MAN: Down the road! Go!

(clamoring fades into distance)

(panting)

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!

I have a house in the valley of Sorek.

You'll be safe there while you wait for your God's answer.

MAN: There he is!

(indistinct shouting)

Make for the village of Balsam.

- I will meet you on the road. - MAN: Come on, then!

Stay here tonight.

They're not after you.

(crowd clamoring)

MAN: Get him!

MAN: Where is he?

When I find him, he's gonna be a dead man.

MAN: He must have gone that way.

We need to find him!

Where is he?

He's here!

Rally to me!

I see him!

Rally to me!

Rally to me!

(grunting and groaning)

SOLDIER: He's here! Rally to me!

(grunting and groaning continue)

(crowd clamoring)

MAN: Don't let him get away!

- Catch him! Catch him! - Kill the heathen!

Kill him! Kill him!

Kill him!

(clamoring continues)

MAN: Kill the heathen!

Catch him!

(creaking, clunking)

(soldiers shouting)

(yells)

(crowd clamoring)

(grunting, panting)

SOLDIER: Fire on that dirty pig!

(yells)

Kill the heathen!

(grunting)

- (Samson yells) - (clamoring continues)

Kill him!

(panting)

MAN: Kill the heathen!

Burn him!

- (clamoring continues) - Kill him!

Kill him!

Lord...

Your servant calls upon You once more.

Kill him!

With Your strength,

protect me.

(thunder rumbling)

(yells)

(rumbling, creaking)

(panting)

- (yelling) - (wood creaking)

(wood crackling)

(snapping)

(yells)

(grunts, pants)

Let them witness.

Let them witness the strength...

(grunts)

...of the Living...

...God.

♪♪

♪♪

(birds chirping)

(short chuckle)

TAREN (whispers): Samson.

(Taren chuckles)

SAMSON: Taren.

My love.

What are you doing?

- (groans) - Lay still.

You must rest.

(grunts, mutters)

(birds chirping)

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 are healed.

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.

(bird cawing)

I thought you were dead.

I feel I should be, Mother.

Come here, 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.

(shuddering breaths)

Has God forsaken me?

He will 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.

He's still with you,

but you must pursue His desires, not your own.

Listen to Him.

Please...

pray for me.

I always pray for my children.

(thunder rumbling)

(quiet chatter)

SOLDIER: We'll be back tomorrow for the rest.

WOMAN: We trusted you.

And you stand there and do nothing.

(thunder rumbling)

When Samson killed the thousand,

we gathered as many weapons as possible.

The majority 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.

(sighs) 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.

CALEB: Either join us

or stay free of our course.

(thunder rumbling)

CALEB: You leave again so soon after weeks away?

(scoffs) Please don't tell me it's another Philistine.

None of your concern, brother.

Have you no regard left for 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.

Curb 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.

And all we need from you, brother, is to lead us.

I will not lead them, you or anyone

to certain death.

(thunder crashes)

(knocking)

You came back.

I had to see you again.

Please come in.

(Samson and Delilah chuckling)

I wonder if this is what peace feels like.

Ah, peace was 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.

(both chuckle)

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.

- (birds cawing) - KING BALEK: 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.

This will be a significant attack, my king.

We appreciate your protection and good graces.

And you may continue to...

(grunting)

(bodies thud)

(quiet chatter)

(Samson chuckles)

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?

(sighs)

But there are 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.

(distant hoofbeats)

This is for Samson, from the crown.

Hyah!

You seem quiet.

What is the matter?

Nothing, my love.

Thank you.

Enough.

I love you. You know that.

(quiet chatter)

(sighs)

And I you.

♪♪

(thunder rumbling)

♪♪

Samson, the Philistines are upon you.

(door bangs open)

Samson! No!

(grunts)

(yells in pain)

- No! - My hand!

DELILAH: Please do not hurt him!

- Please! - (grunting)

DELILAH: Samson!

Samson! (grunts)

(grunting continues)

Samson's little brother.

I'm going to let you watch.

(grunting)

(gasping)

DELILAH: No.

- CALEB: Brother! Brother! - (Samson groaning)

(grunting)

- (fierce grunt) - Brother!

Rallah.

(grunts)

(yells)

(grunting and groaning)

(gasps)

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.

- (sizzling) - DELILAH: Rallah, you promised!

No. No.

Rallah. Rallah!

- DELILAH: No! - SAMSON: Rallah!

- SAMSON: No! Rallah! - DELILAH: Rallah... No!

- (Samson screaming) - (sizzling)

(Delilah sobbing)

(Samson screaming)

(gasping)

CALEB: Samson!

(Delilah sobbing)

(breathing deeply)

(grunting, panting)

(pained gasping)

(yelling in pain)

(panting)

Caleb.

Forgive me.

Once again, I have failed.

I did what was right in my own eyes.

- (Caleb sobbing) - I deserve this.

(sobbing): Brother, but you do not.

(both weeping)

(coins clatter)

RALLAH: Samson, Samson, Samson.

The greatest warrior ever known,

yet look at you now.

- What a waste. - (water dripping)

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.

- (man grunts) - (Samson groaning)

- (Samson panting) - RALLAH: 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.

(Samson groans)

Tell Him!

Or I will rend your flesh

and feed you to the rats!

Ajust punishment for my sins.

(spits) Do what you will.

- (grunts) Tell me! - (Samson groans)

(Rallah grunts)

Tell me!

I will have the truth!

Now! (grunts)

- Please! - (grunting and groaning)

Stop!

CALEB: I'll tell you.

(grunting)

Tell me what I must do.

Fear the Living God.

Humble yourself.

Or He will humble you.

(yells)

(panting)

KING BALEK: 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"? - I will 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... year after year,

we will celebrate his humiliation and the triumph.

- My triumph over his God. - Triumph? Your triumph?

You imbecile!

You've learned nothing.

You know nothing.

- (grunts) - (squishing thud)

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.

(shackles clinking)

- (grunts) - (panting)

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.

(crying softly)

I will always love you.

Delilah.

(shackles clanking)

(grunting)

(Caleb sobbing)

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 am hearing His desires and not my own.

- (shackles clinking) - (grunts)

I love you, brother.

(yelps)

(door closes)

(panting)

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?

(sobs)

♪♪

(quiet chatter)

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 cheering)

Bring the prisoner.

(crowd jeering)

(jeering continues)

(indistinct shouting)

(jeering, indistinct shouting continue)

WOMAN: Get him!

Boo!

(Samson groans)

MAN: Kill the Hebrew!

WOMAN: Kill the prisoner!

(indistinct shouting)

(grunts)

(panting)

- MAN: Kill him! - (crowd cheers)

- (Samson grunting) - (crowd cheering)

Dagon's arm is mighty and his vengeance swift.

Praise be to Dagon.

CROWD: Praise be to Dagon! Praise be to Dagon!

(crowd cheering)

- (jailer grunts) - (Samson yells in pain)

(cheering)

- (whip cracks) - (Samson groans)

- (whip cracks) - (Samson gasping)

- (whip cracks) - (Samson yelps in pain)

- (jailer grunts) - (Samson yells)

- (whip cracks) - (Samson groans)

- (whip cracks) - (Samson grunts, pants)

(whip cracking repeatedly)

(chuckling)

(grunting and groaning)

(yells in pain)

(panting)

- Kill him! String him up! Come on! - Kill the Hebrew!

(laughter)

- (gasping) - CROWD: Kill him! Kill him!

Kill him! Kill him! Kill him!

Kill him! Kill him!

Kill him! Kill him! Kill him! Kill him!

Kill him! Kill him!

Lord...

give me Your strength one last time.

Let me die with the Philistines.

(thunder rumbling)

No.

(thunder crashing)

(Samson grunts)

(panting)

(crowd clamoring)

(panting)

Kill the prisoner.

- (thunder rumbling) - Kill him!

Kill him!

(thunder crashing)

(grunts)

(strained grunting)

(softly): No.

(yells)

(screaming)

(yells)

(rumbling)

Kill him!

(grunts)

- (Samson yelling) - (people screaming)

- MAN: Move! Get out of the way! - (grunting, panting)

(man screams)

(gasps weakly)

(people screaming, whimpering)

(Samson yelling)

(panting)

(screams)

(rumbling)

CALEB: 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 forjoy.

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!

CROWD: God is with us!

Samson! Samson! Samson! Samson!

Samson! Samson! Samson! Samson! Samson!

CALEB: 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?

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.

♪♪

♪ I've been through ♪

♪ The rain and the storm ♪

♪ Been down that ♪

♪ Same broken road ♪

♪ Left me wanting ♪

♪ A whole lot more ♪

♪ I'll keep searching ♪

♪ Till I find my home ♪

♪ I have walked through ♪

♪ Victory's gate ♪

♪ Never feared, though the lions came ♪

♪ Won each battle ♪

♪ But lost my soul ♪

♪ Still searching ♪

♪ Till I find my home ♪

♪ Thought me stronger ♪

♪ Than the love and faith ♪

♪ Played with fire ♪

♪ Like it was only a game ♪

♪ Always faithful ♪

♪ Loved me through it all ♪

♪ I can hear it ♪

♪ Redemption's call ♪

♪ 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 ♪

♪ I can hear it ♪

♪ Redemption's call ♪

♪ No more searching ♪

♪ Finally made it home. ♪

♪♪

♪ 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. ♪

♪♪

(music fades)