The Greek deities that play such a prominent role in “The Iliad” — the poet Homer’s ancient account of the Trojan War — aren’t given much play in the film “Troy.” In their stead are bare-chested, brawny and bronzed matinee idols who, with a pumped-up, blonde-coifed Brad Pitt leading the charge, are poised to conquer the box office in this spirited throwback to the sprawling war epics of yesteryear. Wolfgang Petersen (“The Perfect Storm,” “Air Force One”) has made big movies before, but nothing as ambitious as this nearly three-hour, star-studded period piece about fighting men and the women who love them. “Troy” was shot on mammoth soundstages and outdoor locations in London, Malta and Mexico, employing thousand of extras and crew members. With a reported $175 million price tag — 10 percent of which went to Pitt — it is one of the most expensive features ever produced. It says here, Warner Bros’ investment will prove to be a wise one. “Troy” is as good a kickoff to the summer movie season as there’s been in years.
Pitt has the hopped up Alpha male mien down pat (see “Fight Club,” “Legends of the Fall” and “Seven”) and as Achilles, Greece’s greatest warrior, he’s as volatile as weapons-grade plutonium. “I want what all men want,” he tells a mistress on the eve of battle, adding “I just want it more.” Boy, does he ever — as rendered here, Achilles is to killing what Michael Jordan was to slam dunks. Pitt’s muscular performance is nearly unassailable save for his labored British dialect, an Achilles heel that is laid bare in several scenes in which the star appears opposite the venerable Peter O’Toole (in a memorable turn as Priam, ruler of the Trojans). The yin to Brad’s yang is Eric Bana (“The Hulk”) in a finely measured performance as Hector, the heroic prince and principal protector of Troy. Orlando Bloom (“The Lord of the Rings”) is fey, but tolerably so, as Hector’s younger brother Paris, the legendary Lothario whose love affair with Helen (German model Diane Kruger), wife of the Spartan king Menelaus (Brendan Gleeson), sparks the film’s central conflict. Brian Cox chews up the high-priced scenery with lusty aplomb as Agamemnon, the warmongering King of the Mycenaens whom many of you may remember from reading Cliff’s Notes in high school. Sean Bean (“The Lord of Rings”) and Australian actress Rose Byrne also stand out in supporting roles. “Troy” boasts an appropriately thundering soundtrack, along with award-caliber set and costume design. (Rated R for graphic violence and some sexuality/nudity. Running time: 163 minutes)
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on May 14, 2004. Read the original PDF.