Go feeling pessimistic and you will be pleasantly surprised

Rating: Null/10 (16 May 2004)

Although Troy is no Gladiator in terms clarity and lacks stirring music that tests the emotions I was surprised how much I enjoyed it.
Firstly the bad: The music especially in the battle scenes lacked resonance and was used poorly to set the scene and build up tension. Secondly several fascinating characters are left underdeveloped esp: Odysseus and Menelaus. In addition many of the big battles just seemed a confusing blur. Finally some people would dislike the fact that the 'good and 'bad' sides are not clearly defined I didn't mind.
The Good: Don't believe all the pessimism about the quality of acting. I distinctly dislike Orlando Bloom but found his depiction of Paris spot on, a sniveling coward I desired to kick whilst Brad Pitt I equally loathed in the role of Achilles as the selfish arrogant mercenary with the massive ego.
However the actors who shone through for me where Hector, Odysseus and Agamemnon
Hector: was the sympathetic hero doomed to die and even though a tinge of Australian accent could be heard from time to time Bana's portrayal of the character was perfect, showing the loyalty,integrity and fatalism that endeared him to the audience.
Odysseus: was excellently portrayed by a very convincing Sean Bean, a voice of reason, and wily operator. I thought his voice overs at the start and end added a strong sense of antiquity to the film and reminded me so much of Boromir in LOTR when he held the ring.
Agamemnon: As a tyrant, was quite funny and made me laugh with the only few moments of sarcastic humour in a largely serious film.
Overrall despite its flaws in terms of directing and music Troy was a thoroughly enjoyable film, bring on the Odyssessy (with Sean Bean please.)