"Let them say that I walked with giants."

Rating: 8/10 (27 November 2010)

Personally, I am not familiar with the original story for the battle of Troy, so I can't comment on how historically/mythically/culturally accurate this movie really is. Whether it's fully embellished or not, it is a rather fun and timeless story; it is only appropriate that Hollywood should someday film it with such a high production cost and a full list of A-list actors.
This is such a film; a slick and stylish production with plenty of large-scale set-pieces, exotic-looking locations, huge battles and fight scenes, ambitious CGI effects, and a smidgeon of classic romance. The talents of Brad Pitt, Eric Bana, Orlando Bloom, Sean Bean, and even Peter O'Toole are all dispensed here. Watching "Troy" is about as rewarding of an experience as the long list of other Hollywood epics (such as "Jason and the Argonauts," or "300"), for better or for worse.
The best part about this film is that it is tremendously entertaining. Whether watching the original two-hour theatrical cut or the rather sublime three-hour director's cut, the film is tightly paced and hardly ever dull. Battle scenes are spectacular and often times bloody. Individual fight scenes are pretty swell too. The CGI work is a little fake-looking, but still well-realized and quite slick to look at. Outside of the battles, the film is quite pretty to look at, with so many unique settings and solid camera work.
The most negative aspects about this film would likely be reserved for the pickiest of viewers. Despite the film's quality production, it is not even comparable to the most highly-rated epics in this genre; movies like "Gladiator" and "Braveheart" can easily out-match "Troy." After all, "Troy" does not have the same quality writing and acting, much less the same thematic prowess or emotional power. It is certainly not as immersive, deep, or insightful.
In the end, "Troy" is a polished and entertaining film. It comes recommended to most casual audiences, but those looking for full artistic valor can do better.
4/5 (entertainment: 4/5, story: 4/5, film: 4/5)