Nice try, but no Gladiator

Rating: Null/10 (16 May 2004)

I went to this movie hoping for a Greek version of Gladiator. No such luck, I left the movie theater slightly dazed from sensory overload, but none happier.
Several things were just off, making it hard to suspend your disbelief. Brad Pitt & the Helen were miscast, looking white, blonde, and northern European, and many actors spoke with that accent associated with American-British movies. The Greek look, with dark hair, eyes, and that Mediterranean feel was just not there.
Then there is the subject matter. War, in all its ugliness. Before Iraq it was easy for war to be an escapist fantasy. Now, the images of close combat bring back memories from yesterday's headlines. I just do not like to think about it any more.
There were a few spectacular fights, one really neat horse model. But not enough to make this very long movie pass by without looking at my watch. I kept reaching for my Tivo fast-forward button.
If you really enjoy close combat or Brad Pitt's butt this might be just the ticket for you. Otherwise, it'll be just a wash.