Jim Smith

A journey into hell. This is absolutely one of the most macabre movies I have seen. It is very well crafted, but at times, tough on the senses. Pay particular attention to the two troglodyte females, their condition and apparent utility, to acquire a sense of the depravity associated with this culture, in which Kurt Russel and colleagues are trapped. The manner in which this movie is filmed, renders rich sepia indoor shades and detailed, almost pastel tone outdoor coloration. Visually, this is nicely executed. The characters and acting are more than adequate, with some slight, occasional over-acting from Richard Jenkins. Considerable thought and creativity are apparent in the visuals used to construct the horror, within which these characters are immersed.

This is absolutely the most gut-wrenching shark movie I have ever seen. I was tied up in knots and recoiling at the thought of my legs dangling in the water. Exceptionally realistic, well acted and highly recommended.

Other than the scene with Rosario Dawson, I can’t think of a single reason why anyone would willingly subject themself to this painfully protracted mess. First, Colin Farrell was an exceptionally poor choice to play Alexander. It’s true that none of us knows what Alexander actually looked like. However, the image most of have in mind is certainly not a blonde Colin Farrell. There is a deliberate attempt to surround Alexander with an entourage of effeminate and frankly, rather pretty young men. This is an obvious move to create a bisexual overtone to his persona. This is done continuously and makes the movie feel weird. The battle against the Persians at the beginning of the movie is completely nonsensical. “Macedonian Center”...”Macedonian Right”...”Macedonian Left”...over and over and over again, with no apparent purpose, since no activities of any particular significance are depicted. If you enjoy this genre movie, I recommend completely ignoring “Alexander”, and move immediately to either “Kingdom of Heaven” or “Troy.” You will find either infinitely more satisfying.

Overall, this was an enjoyable movie with some clever and creative elements. Elizabeth Moss delivered an excellent performance. IMO, the quality of the overall production was damaged by two things. First, the relationship between Moss and the African American father and daughter is so unnatural, that it is almost painful to watch them interacting. This is a contrived relationship (presumably, in the interest of achieving ethnic diversity) and unfortunately, these three people have absolutely nothing in common with one another. Second, when we are finally able to see and hear Adrian Griffin ( the optics genius and invisible man) near the end of the movie, he comes across as a boyish, almost somewhat goofy adolescent, instead of a simmering, dark sociopathic intellectual. Miscasting is a serious problem with this movie. The special effects were top notch. Sorry...only 3.5 stars.