Review of Troy (2004) by Adam G — 10 Apr 2013
Epic poem becomes Hollywood blockbuster. Historic details are blurred but the essentials of the story are there and in place. Brad Pitt is excellent in portraying a violent, largely tragic character. Eric Bana excels as a real life leader, Hector the Tamer of Horses -violent but intelligent. Sean Bean is truly inspiring as Odysseus. Peter O'Toole as Priam gives his usual polished performance. Fans of "Excaliber" will struggle to recognise Nigel Terry who gives a strong support character performance.
The women are suitably svelt and pneumatic and do what they can in what is essentially a movie about a man's world at that time.
Panned by critics, the film is violent but enjoyable and suitably told: mythic. Taken at this level it is a superior Epic.
Cinematography, including the fight scenes especially Achilles vs foe ("Is there no-one else?"), Achilles vs Hector (mythic warrior vs real life man) are all bloody and realistic. War of that era was hand to hand, man against man.
The 30 minutes longer Director's cut adds depth to the story but lessens the overall impact. Best to view the original and fill in the gaps yourself. For more, read the book!
Recommended for mature viewers. Beware there is a lot of violence (in context), nudity (tame by current standards and plot appropriate). Fun movie that rewards re-watching. Not quite at "Gladiator" level but close.
This review of Troy (2004) was written by Adam G on 10 Apr 2013.
Troy has generally received positive reviews.
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