Decent Enough

Rating: Null/10 (15 May 2004)

Having studied the book for 3 years in both Latin and English, I am undecided as to whether or not I loved the film, or merely liked it, converting a book especially an homer epic, is no easy task. But the main question is did it meet up to my expectations. Well to be honest, I didn't know what to expect, was it going to be a film to be analysed as with the book or was it simply violence for the men and semi naked Brad Pitt flaunting his muscles for the women? Unfortunately I have to say the later. I felt right the way through the film that it was trying to be a 'Gladiator' and this I didn't feel it lived up to. The film in summary is a good visual aid to the book, or a mindless epic for those wanting a night out
I however recognised that this film was hyped up, it had made a name for itself before release, and as with all films with that much publicity it is never going to be the the image you have in your mind.but in saying that it wasn't far off.
The casting however was superb! Could you ask for a more able group of actors, Brad Pitts portrayal of Achilles was true and Eric Bana was amazing as Hector. Helena met to the standards of beauty spoken of in the book, even Orlando Bloom who I expected to be the let down of the cast was commendable.and hats of to Sean Bean, will his talent at acting ever stop amazing me.
The film is worth going to see, don't set your standards too high, you may be let down, but then again you may love it (my best mate did!)
Don't forget it has opened doors to the possibility of there being a sequel following Virgil's Aenead!