Ben-Hur believes in the Hebrew people of Judea: "I believe in the future of my people." Messala asks that Ben-Hur, an admired and respected aristocrat, speak out against rebellion and futile resistance to Rome that would only end in the extinction of his people.Sigourney Weaver was nominated for a Best Actress Oscar (an incredible feat for a sci-fi film) in aRambo-like role, and lost to Marlee Matlin""s performance inChildren of a Lesser God (1986).Director Christian Nyby""s (his directorial debut film) and producer Howard Hawks"" sole science-fiction film was one of the earliest examples of an alien invader feature film (earlier serials includedFlash GordonandBuck Rogers), and featured Hollywood filmdom""s first sci-fi space monster.Wearing a borrowed dress, she is stylishly brought home by Edgar in a carriage.When first looking at Heathcliff, she quickly asks him to look respectable and better himself so that she can be seen in his company with Edgar:Cathy: Heathcliff.