Ignore the Nay-sayers

Rating: 8/10 (22 February 2000)

I support this film for two reasons. One, McTiernan should receive kudos for excelling at his craft during the making of this film. Two, the cast of actors surrounding Banderos deserve to be noticed. Anyone unsatisfied with this film either expected too much or is overly critical due to some chemical imbalance which manifests itself in the "I know film and this was not the 'Bicycle Thief' or 'Raging Bull' so in my miseducation of the business I will score it low and complain" disease.
This story has an even-keeled, nicely planned through line, and gives enough back story to fully color in an interesting plot. Historic, exciting, funny, and well executed this film is a great example of what good direction creates. McTiernan has used all the elements available to him (casting, art direction, editing) in high fashion. In the hands of anyone else this film would have suffered, yet McTiernan delivers a film that will survive as one of the better actioners ever.
One of the most thoroughly enjoyable aspects of this film was the cast. The band of Viking warriors especially. All were interesting looking and great actors. They all looked so comfortable in their roles that I was unconsciously drawn into the movie and was sad to see them go.
An unpretentious and funny film, full of good action. Never a let down.