Alexander – Movie Review
Synopsis: Oliver Stone’s Alexander is based on the true story of one of history’s most luminous and influential leaders (COLIN FARRELL) – a man who had conquered 90% of the known world by the age of 25. Alexander led his virtually invincible Greek and Macedonian armies through 22,000 miles of sieges and conquests in just eight years, and by the time of his death at the age of 32 had forged an empire unlike any the world had ever seen. The film takes a bold, honest look at Alexander’s life and his relationships with his mother, Olympias (ANGELINA JOLIE), his father Philip (VAL KILMER), his lifelong friend and battle commander Hephaistion (JARED LETO), Roxane, his ambitious and beautiful Bactrian wife (ROSARIO DAWSON), and his trusted general and confidant Ptolemy (ANTHONY HOPKINS). Set in Alexander’s pre-Christian world of social customs and morals far different from today’s, the film explores a time of unmatched beauty and unbelievable brutality, of soaring ideals and staggering betrayals.
Rating: R For violence and some sexuality/nudity.
Run Time: Directors Cut 167 min, Theatrical 175 agonizing mins
Director: Oliver Stone
Dvd Extra’s: Commentary by director Oliver Stone
Nudity Factor: Roxane played by Rosario Dawson give a quick glimpse of everything as Alexander shows her the different types of love. Also a good glimpse of her breasts. Alexander played by Colin Farrell gives a look at his backside as he is getting into bed.
Of Note: Colin Farrell broke his ankle and arm during filming when he fell down a stairway.
Recommendations: 300
I vividly remember watching this movie and thinking to myself, “Thank goodness it’s finally over.” I mean, seriously, I was praying to whatever gods were being worshiped in that film. Just watching the director’s tells you something as they cut 8 minutes out of the movie.
The flashbacks in the movie were just way too much. They were poorly timed and dragged the whole thing down, messing with the pace. And don’t even get me started on the battle scenes. They were filmed in a way that just didn’t sell the epicness of the battles. It was all so confusing and hard to follow.
Honestly, this movie would have been way better if it was just a quick 90-minute flick. I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone unless they’re really desperate for something to watch or just completely out of their minds.