This Alexander film, is a type of movie that most filmmakers think about at one point, while probably wanting to do, but rarely end up doing, mostly because we grew up on blockbuster or "B" type movies. This is a filmed play, kind of the way they do with digital theatres now in "live event" projection. I believe that the focus of what the characters in Mark St. George's movie are saying and doing are more important than focusing on battling robots and fancy graphics. The movie "Free Enterprise" had William Shatner trying to make a "one-man stage play" movie about Caesar. While all the roles in this film were filled by different cast members, the concept reminds me of that and I applaud it.
I must say that I especially enjoyed the middle of the production visually when they go deeper into the unknown territories and all sorts of things start happening to bring about colored lighting. It makes things more dramatic and makes the characters look pretty cool! I would have loved to see more of that, but who knows if it would have been distracting from the dialogue. I give a vote of 9 out of 10, because I am greedy and want more of those damn color gels. Naughty naughty greedy Kenny.
Images of mostly painted artwork representing the times are used as scene transitions, which are fine as they are or even as backdrops. The story itself is in three acts, just like most plays. There is nudity, which is all in good taste towards the story elements at hand, so I wouldn't even think this would be R level, but rather PG 13. The fact that Alexander's brought up to think he's a god ends up having him embarrass his mother, who's grown attracted to the son she's shaped into this image. I guess the whole premise of Alexander's life is entertaining, as he conquers intrigue far after his days of conquering civilizations.
To sum up my experience of watching the film, it's a fun and unique way to relive history and other cinematic interpretation without reading a whole book or taking a class on it. Also, this film presents it in a more noble style of dialogue that would almost be lost in today's high paced and pop cultured society. Shakespeare who? Alexander who? Well, 2 hours of a young person's attention could help round out their life with tradition and history in an entertaining fashion.
Best, Kenny
