Tuesday, March 1

Movie Review: Alexander - Director's Cut (2004)


Length: 3h & 34m
Released: 2004
Genre: Action/Adventure & Drama
Rating: R
Where I Got It: Netflix

SUMMARY:

Alexander, the King of Macedonia and one of the greatest military leaders in the history of warfare, conquers much of the known world.











TRAILER:





REVIEW:
I have seen the TV version of this movie a handful of times. However, Netflix offers the director’s cut of this and I have been itching to give this movie a rewatch….soooo….sorry Boyfriend for making you watch 3 hours of Alexander-ness! 

If you don’t already know…I am a history-nerd to the extreme, however, even this was a wee bit long for me. Normally, I drool over director’s cuts, because I adore the extra film. This, though, was over-the-top and long. There were scenes that were not needed to move the plot forward. Some added scenes needed to be in the film to make people understand.
I have been battling myself since I first saw this film many moons ago about if I like Colin Farrell as Alexander of not. I have finally decided my opinion on him being Alexander. I love him as the war-ridden, complex, scarred, and anguished hero. I do NOT like him as young and naïve Alexander who is still just a prince and under his mommy’s thumb. Also, I do not like the blonde on him. Black hair is fitting, but alas, Alexander was a golden hero and thus needs blonde hair. 

My other complaint is the layout of the film. I hate the time jumps…it confuses the plot in this one. I had to explain many times to Boyfriend what was going on and WHY. The story needed to be told from point A to point B. Historical films need that flow for people who are not as knowledgeable about the time period and/or the character.

Poor Pony! Even though I knew what was going to happen, I still cried! :(

Now, I must give kudos to Angelina Jolie who played the sassy and bitchy Olympia, Alex’s momma. This has always been one of my favorites by her. She does this role justice and plays her how I envision her. The accent is super strong, but oddly…I think it fits this character who is SO proud of her heritage and whatnot. Much like Southerners who accent shouldn’t be THAT thick, but they make it thick because they are proud to be Southern. 

Even though I have mixed reviews on the actor who plays Alexander, I must say this film does well in presenting the man who is a Great. He was both a hero and a villain – it depends on your view and feelings. He had good attributes, ideas, and had a heart. However, he was taking over people’s lands. The biggest thing I am glad they made a HUGE note on is that he was a bisexual (leaning toward more Gay). People are so sensitive towards this even today. Why? That is a whole different post. I’m glad they showed the truth. People tend to forget homosexuality has been around since the dawn of man. Hell – many other mammals have the same gene. But yes, Alexander the Great was bisexual and I am glad they didn’t “forget”/”neglect” to leave that out. 

Overall, this is entertaining and a great portrayal of one of the most remembered historical figures. I have my mixed opinions on the person who they selected to play him, however, I am pleased the with entire cast. This was the first time I watched the undirector’s cut and I felt like it was TOO long. Some scenes that had been deleted from the TV version NEEDED to be in there, but there were others that did not. I highly recommend this film to those that love history or who are looking for a good film. Out of five stars, I stamp this with 3 stars. 



Re-watch?: Maybe I'll stick with the TV version






4 comments:

Melliane said...

I haven't tried this one or I don't think so but maybe

Blodeuedd said...

Meh

Anachronist said...

I haven't watched this one bc I hate Colin, simply HATE him.

Carole Rae said...

Melliane, maybe avoid the SUPER long version.

B, :P

Ana, really? I don't mind him. Not my favorite...but he doesn't bug me.