Historically accurate but insufficient technically

Rating: 8/10 (10 April 2006)

I watched this Alexander in movie theater when it was released. I also purchased both of the wide screen(Director and theatrical cut) and I reviewed it again recently. I like , in general, movies about the ancient/classique heroic/history genre. Certainly, it is a collectible items and a proud collection on one's DVD shelf...
About the story... It is a rather comprehensive historical account on Alexander..from his mysterious birth to his death....and of course ,multiple great wars against the east and the west...made him a nicknamed "Alexander with two horns".... the wars scene is rather elaborate...and that's the reason I bougth both of the version. Being a member of National Geography, I have read many articles on this great man who fought many great wars..especially the pivotal defeat of Persian in Battle of Granicus! Very accurate depiction..worth a watch...along then,,the war in India was interesting to watch too.
Characters development was slightly incoherent and weak...Collin Farell did a decent job but other casts probably not to well selected..
Another issue was about Alexander sexuality...he was a homosexual and at that time...homosexualism was a norm among noble and hero...that drew many controversy ...but clearly, same gender admiration and intimacy was common at that time...
Cinematographic is great as usual Oliver style...one would amazed by the grand scenes here and there...and the rest of of the legend was held close to the major historians lines...
Finally...it is a masterpiece by itself..although suffered some flaw with castings..and also the interrupted flow of the movie(too many events to be squeezed in 2 hrs plus...let's admit it is not an easy task!) but I suggest that may be some of the events could be verbally narrated/simplified and concentrate on several pivotal events with in depth exploration...
Lost 1 point for flow and 1 point for castings... 8/10 worthy collectible!
Very educational accounts on Alexander...in 2 plus hours...one could have a decent and accurate grasp about this legend...Highly recommended