Absolutely Underrated

Rating: 8/10 (3 October 2007)

One of Oliver Stone's best films. For me, Oliver Stone's quality of work throughout his career varies immensely, but then how many have achieved his eclecticism, and control. After reading the complaints people have had with this film, it really seems as if the film is overshadowed by expectations and, of course, stomach-aches over homosexuality. The film isn't about Alexander's battles (the theatrical release, I'm talking about here, not the faux "Director's Cut"), it's about him; his life. An idea of what a real human being might be like if we are to interpret historical accounts of him with reason rather than wonder. It's not supposed to be Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings, or Ridley Scott's Gladiator. It's not about Greece, or patriotism, or duty, or honor. It's not a myth. Instead it's a more realistic perspective of a man set against the myth. And even further proof of the film's effectiveness is the polarization of it's viewer's opinions.
As far as film-making goes, you make you're own decision. I thought the hours breezed by. A quality edit and every moment is packed. The shots are rich, diverse, and each location is uniquely styled while still retaining consistency befitting the film's general style. When you are brought into different times, you can see it; it's there. When there's a battle, the audiences sense is comparable to the leader. When Alexander has a sense of what's where, you see it and hear it. When chaos and singularity ensues, you're gripped by shots that the show the instinct and emotion of one man, Alexander, trying to survive. But that's this film. Maybe you'd rather not have that experience, that's fine too, but I really get the feeling that what the filmmakers set out to accomplish, was.