Pretty Fine Movie

Rating: 10/10 (28 August 1999)

Considering we're a society that supposedly loves violence and gore, there are very few really good, solid action-adventure flicks. The 13th Warrior is one such rare beast.
The movie's exciting, unpretentious, and effective, though the introductory sequences are a bit rushed. After that, the movie settles down; the fight scenes are dramatic, well-staged, and in no way gratuitous (though anyone under 13 is guaranteed nightmares). There are some really cool sequences involving language and weaponry, though and the interaction between the Arab (Antonio Banderas) and Norse (Everybody else) cultures are pretty neat.
Banderas is the only advertised star and eponymous 13th Warrior, but he doesn't dominate the plot and screen to the detriment of the film; rather, virtually all of the 13 warriors are permitted to develop as characters, to some degree. They all act pretty well, a rarity in movies in general and especially with this genre. It's especially fun to watch Banderas's character develop as the film progresses.
In addition to the strong support for Banderas, the setting really enhances the movie. Beautiful forested settings, a dose of Norse culture, and some great scenery shots are very effective.
The 13th Warrior is pure action, though; there's no heavyhanded message, attempt to be politically correct, or apparent ulterior motive. The action is fast, the men are masculine, and the bad guys are pure evil.
The movie has a few flaws, but they're not much of an issue. One or two plot lines are undeveloped, and some of the events and last-minute escapes are a bit improbable. However, anyone watching the movie will soon forget such issues; the movie really draws one in.