Almost excellent spectacular about a fascinating age.

Rating: 9/10 (11 April 2005)

Director Wolfgang Peterson nearly spoils a splendid epic, tacking a cornball climax on to a riveting tale. Fortunately we have that rarity of rarities, a strong script. And a cast that kills. Brad Pitt proves, as he did in "Seven" and "Sleepers" that he's no mere pretty boy. His nuanced portrayal of Achilles in "Troy" is a powerhouse turn. Eric Bana (Hector), Brian Cox (Agammemnon) and Brendan Gleeson (Minelaus) give strong support. As well, Sean Bean breaks type, rendering a measured, thoughtful Odysseus. Peter O'Toole is magnificent as Priam. Had Peterson reigned in the schmaltz and stuck to the hard, driving economy that fuels this sprawling saga, "Troy" would rate 11 on a scale of 1 to 10. Even so, it is a do not miss film.