Alexander the great?

Rating: 4/10 (18 August 2005)

A historical epic like Oliver Stone's "Alexander", depends on its lead actor. Colin Farrel was just a complete mistake! His Irish accent, too obviously bleached blonde hair, it really killed the film. Angelina Jolie, one of my favourite actresses, fares no better, why on earth does she sound like a Russian countess! The film has its moments, but the miscasting brings it down.
The entry into Bablyon is magnificent and the last battle in India is right up there with Stone's best stuff, but it cannot make up for the terrible acting of the leads. Only Val Kilmer came off well here. Vangelis' score is evocative and moving and the photography is first rate. Why after seeing the dailies didn't Stone realize how wrong Farrel and Jolie were? He has enough clout to recast his movie even once its in production. A real shame as Alexander is a fascinating figure. Even the slow-moving '55 version with Richard Burton is better entertainment than this. The cast just bombs out here, even Rosario Dawson, usually excellent, is supporting a mysterious accent that makes her unintelligible. The best acting was done by Alexander's horse Bucephaelus! A real shame, don't torture yourself, rent "Troy" instead.