A much better movie than what critics say, if not brilliant

Rating: 10/10 (20 January 2005)

Days after the movie, I am still under the spell. An epic, indeed.
It is a modest overview of Alexander the Great. The movie is not an absolute reflection of history, but MOST of it is. Oliver has tried his best not to compromise the artistic sense at the cost of sticking obstinately to the history.
Some were disturbed by the ambiguous relationship between Hephaestion and Alexander, as well as that between Olympias(mother) and Alexander. However, many facts and a lot of evidence have hinted this. But these don't make Alexander less than what he is.
The actors are good. Colin is very fine, gentle and bold at the same time. Jared Leto (Haphaestion) is particularly eye-catching, the way he looked at Alexander with tears in his eyes, and the way he handed the ring to Alexander with Roxane standing behind out of blue, and the way he passed away. This is the movie that truly convinces me 'true love exists in any form'.
The music is deeply moving, composed by Vangelis. Please do not miss the great soundtrack by Vangelis, esp. Track 13 - Across the Mountains, where Alexander faced the Hindu Kush. and Track 18 - Tender Memeory.
Definitely a much better movie than what the critics say. For those who don't favor it or think it is excessively long, is it possible that History as a subject bores you in school as well?