I thought I had made a terrible mistake – had I walked into a discovery channel presentation about Alexander, or a Hollywood entertainment movie? I double-checked the theatre and my ticket; yes, I was in the right place. All the hype that surrounded this film is just that – hype. The content and information regarding the life of Alexander (which I don’t know the historical accuracy of) is excellent, but the movie never really picks up its sluggish pace. Instead, it continues its very monotonous tempo for three long hours. I believe the twelve others who joined me in the theatre would agree, but by the time the credits rolled, I was sitting all by myself.
Even the war/fight scenes were without good energy, as we have been accustomed to in such films as “Troy,” “Gladiator” and “The Patriot.” The first war scene shown was difficult to decipher, because there was so much dust in the air, I could barely see who was who.
I was very disappointed with “Alexander.” A movie about such a historic person should be an epic film. Spoiled in the movie is a very good performance by Colin Farrell. I will give credit to the filmmakers for using very little foul language. As expected, there are many bloody scenes, along with some sex and nudity. Since Alexander descended of Greek heritage, much of the movie includes talk about Greek gods; and his mother (Angelina Jolie) is a sorceress. This film neither satisfies those looking for a good war movie or a family-friendly movie, nor those seeking a historic flick.