Back to an Epic Night

With 12 nominations, the sword-and-sandal Roman Empire epic “Gladiator” is the front-runner at this year’s Academy Awards. Nearly 41 years ago, William Wyler’s lavish, inspiring adaptation of Lew Wallace’s religious drama, “Ben-Hur,” dominated the Academy Awards, winning 11 Oscars including best film, best director, actor (Charlton Heston) and supporting actor (Hugh Griffith).

Here’s a look back at the star-studded ceremony, which took place April 4, 1960, at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood. Bob Hope was the host.