Hey folks, Harry here with our first look at the delayed ALEXANDER film from Oliver Stone. This first review is not all that hot, but apparently the film is technically stunning. And the question about whether or not we would see Alexander having a homosexual lover... well, it's unveiled here. Though there are no spoilers beyond that. Here ya go...
Yo Harry,
I got to catch a small little screening of Alexander.
Well, at first I felt no interest in seeing the film a few months ago. I mean, Oliver Stone? Any Given Sunday sucked. But anyway, I attended it and it turns out having low expectations works out sort of.
Colin Farrell is a great actor, and shows it once again here in the role of Alexander. But if there really was one role to applaud, it would be Val Kilmer's work as Phillip. If anything, I'd expect Kilmer to be a definite as scoring a nomination in supporting. He went through great trouble and weight gain too to which seems like a great payoff. When I saw it, I noticed myself being more interested as well in his character than any other.
As for Jared Leto, well, he portrays Alexander's homosexual lover. But unfortunately, he doesn't quite stand out much in the film as he has in the past. Jared I feel, lacked the enthusiasm and dialog to bring this character to life.
As for the sexy Angelina Jolie, well, I believe she's back on top again in her role as Olympias (she's even the sexiest woman alive right now, she's perfect for this!) But I wouldn't say it's time to give her another Oscar just yet.
Anthony Hopkins did a nice job, but once again he neither had the dialog to really stand out in the film. He also slowed down the film a bit in some parts.
As for Colin, well, he might make it to the acting categories or not. Stone didn't deliver the best performances out of the cast as one would hope. Especially for the male lead. Hopefully, he gets some recognition in the future.
And finally Mr. Stone, who returns to cinemas finally after a bit of a hiatus. Does he give the realistic journey of Alexander to the audiences? Yes! He does bring costumes, set/locations, and everything back the early years. These are things that as well will at least get Oscar noms, it'd be a sin not to at least recognize these. But Stone needs to tighten up his writing skills with some of the dialog in the film. Directing wise? No, I do not feel that the combination of some good performances and settings will make up for where this film slowed down in some parts. But it's at least better than Troy.
In summary, I could see Alexander getting some tech noms and HOPEFULLY a nom for Val Kilmer. Besides that, there's nothing I really have to rave. But nonetheless, give it a shot. Even if you got the lowest of expectations (like I did)
R.T.
