A good film with understandable characters.

Rating: Null/10 (3 June 2004)

How closely does the film resemble the epic by Illiad? Probably little, but remains "inspired by". How apparent is the film's attempt to shine as an epic feature? Very. Can you see CGI in the masses of ships, battalions, and terrain? Of course. Rather than looking at film to amuse us, we study films critically. And this sometimes takes away from the enjoyment films should give us by taking ourselves for a ride.
And a ride it is! This film does something most movies should, but most movies don't. It offers the viewer an equal perspective to the scope and drama of opposing characters that maintain a respectable degree of integrity. Achilles (Pitt) desires a legacy of timeless fame albeit knowing of his impending doom. Hector (Bana) wishes to defend Troy, preserve his family, and protect his honor. Prince Paris (Bloom) - think archer from LOTR and pirate from POTC - follows his heart by taking another king's wife for himself. Does their love justify this act of adultery - and stealing? Henceforth, a superb individualist warrior, a nationalist, and a love-struck prince ignite one of the greatest wars the world will ever face.
But at least in this film, it is easy to walk in the shoes of the characters because you know where they've come from, and where they want to go. Achilles has always been forced to fight and hone his skills to kill swiftly and effectively. He searches for peace, compassion, and any redeeming quality that heals his humanity. Hector has served his father and city as an honorable young leader. But instead of rebuking his brother for inheriting royalty, he wears his armor of duty with strength, determination, and loyalty. Paris is accustomed to nobility with little experience in combat. He's no superhero, and his best courage is limited, but he introspectively questions his honor.