A superb adaptation of Homer's Iliad!

Rating: 10/10 (18 May 2004)

The movie 'Troy' just released in May 2004 is a superb adaptation of Homer's 'Iliad'. Homer's massive epic of 24 books has been successfully reduced to a three hour movie. The plot line has been correctly truncated, so that the fundamental story of this drama is still clear and intact: the conflict between Achilles and Agamemnon placed in the complex context of the politics concerning the Greek assault, and conquest, of Troy. The diction of the screenplay is perfectly balanced: it is at once mildly elevated, yet up-to-date and accessible. The casting is perfect: all the major characters are well acted; Brad Pitt, it turns out, is superbly cast as Achilles: he gives a completely convincing performance. The stunning cinematography, and excellent soundtrack, sustain and enhance the story. Director Wolfgang Peterson has given us a three hour screen adaptation of the 'Iliad', which succeeds on all levels -- above all, he has made sure that the story of the fall of Troy is the spectacle!