A new take on the Old Testament story of Esther. At the Empire 25 and Magic Johnson Harlem (2:02). PG: Violence, sensuality, mature themes. Brought to you by the producers of "The Omega Code," this preposterous adaptation of the Book of Esther is recommended viewing only for those impressed that it comes endorsed by the American Bible Society. You may remember the basics: a Jewish orphan (Tiffany Dupont) hides her identity, marries the king of Persia (Luke Goss) and saves her people from genocidal prime minister Haman (James Callis). In itself, it's a riveting story. Unfortunately, director Michael Sajbel has envisioned an overwrought Lifetime movie of the week, complete with an Esther who could be a cast member of "Laguna Beach" and a king notable only for his washboard abs. As for cameos from Peter O'Toole and Omar Sharif - well, perhaps it's best to pretend we never noticed.

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