Review of The Alamo (2004) by Sleez B — 02 Feb 2012

Remember any of the Alamo films? I do, for I once saw the 1960 version with John Wayne. The San Antonio mission in Texas has become a symbol since then for freedom after siege in 1836. I am sure it was featured in countless films or TV shows and subplots, but the 2004 film is the one to end all Alamo films.

I would have to argue this film is leaning for a stronger stance on the historical accuracy as oppose to the over the top version John Wayne had. The major cast includes Jason Patric as James Bowie, Patrick Wilson as Colonel William James Travis, Dennis Quaid as Sam Houston, and Billy Bob Thorton as David Crockett, a rather very funny looking fellow.

I could not stop laughing. We do not manage to get to know all the Texans and some Tejanos defending the Alamo, but I assume the film actually uses the real names. The film also brings us Emilio Echevarría taking the role of General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, as an egomaniacal peacock bent on arrogantly achieving glory, maybe it had something to do with Jose Urrea achieving a few victories in Texas.

There are also some parts in the film that are not explain and one may argue what really happened or did not and how some context were blown out of proportion. The attempt to make certain characters into legends that everyone heard of before the siege, most notably Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie.

I would point out Davy Crockettâ(TM)s end as a context that was way awesomely blown out of proportion. However, I would say this film is good watching especially in the skirmishes before the final assault on the Alamo to the battle/massacre in San Jacinto.

I would recommend The Alamo if history interest you somewhat or enjoy or would love to laugh at/watch Billy Bob Thorton. I enjoyed watching Thorton and Echevarria the most. I enjoyed the fight from the John Wayne film.