Alexander Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A bleach-blonde Irishman goes on a really long vacation, making questionable decisions about facial hair and elephant warfare.

🍿 Alexander: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Early Life and Influences

The film opens with an aged Ptolemy narrating Alexander’s story. Alexander’s childhood is depicted, highlighting his complex relationship with his ambitious mother, Olympias, and his strained bond with his warrior-king father, Philip II of Macedon. His education under Aristotle is also showcased, shaping his intellect and worldview.

Ascension to Power

Following Philip’s assassination, Alexander ascends to the throne at a young age. He quickly consolidates his power through ruthless measures, quelling rebellions and securing his position as the leader of Macedonia. Alexander’s ambition and strategic brilliance become evident as he sets his sights on conquering the Persian Empire.

Conquest of Persia and Beyond

Alexander leads his army on a relentless campaign, conquering vast territories across Asia. Key battles, including the Battle of Gaugamela, are depicted, showcasing Alexander’s tactical genius and the loyalty of his troops. The film explores the challenges of managing a growing empire and the cultural clashes between the Macedonians and the conquered populations.

Personal Relationships and Internal Conflicts

The film delves into Alexander’s personal relationships, including his close bond with his childhood friend Hephaestion, his marriage to Roxane, and his struggles with his own identity and mortality. These relationships are tested by the pressures of war, political intrigue, and cultural differences.

The Indian Campaign and Growing Discontent

Alexander’s relentless pursuit of conquest leads him to India, where he faces new challenges and fierce resistance. The harsh conditions and constant warfare take a toll on his troops, leading to growing discontent and mutiny. Alexander’s leadership is questioned, and his vision of a unified empire faces increasing opposition.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Alexander (Colin Farrell): The ambitious and conflicted King of Macedonia who conquers much of the known world before his untimely death.
• Olympias (Angelina Jolie): Alexander’s manipulative and power-hungry mother who believes Alexander is destined for greatness.
• Philip (Val Kilmer): The King of Macedonia and Alexander’s father, a skilled military leader who is often at odds with his son.
• Hephaestion (Jared Leto): Alexander’s closest friend and confidant, whose deep bond with Alexander influences his decisions and conquests.
• Ptolemy (Anthony Hopkins): A former general under Alexander who narrates the story, offering his perspective on Alexander’s life and legacy.
• Roxane (Rosario Dawson): Alexander’s wife from Bactria, who struggles to find her place in his life and empire amidst his other relationships.
• Aristotle (Christopher Plummer): Alexander’s tutor who instills in him a love for knowledge and a desire to understand the world around him.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Old Ptolemy: “The truth is never simple and yet it is. The truth is we did kill him. By silence we consented… because we couldn’t go on.” – Ptolemy reflects on the circumstances surrounding Alexander’s death and the political motives of his generals.
• Old Ptolemy: “The dreamers exhaust us. They must die before they kill us with their blasted dreams.” – Ptolemy’s cynical reflection on Alexander’s grand vision and its impact on those around him.
• Aristotle: “When two men lie together in lust, it is over indulgence. But when two men lie together in purity, they can perform wonders.” – Aristotle’s philosophy that frames Alexander’s bond with Hephaestion, suggesting that their purity of love can lead to greatness.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $155,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $34,297,191
• Worldwide Gross: $167,298,192

💥 Alexander Reviews

Personal Review

Okay, so I went in expecting Braveheart meets Gladiator, and it was… not that. I was really excited to see Colin Farrell as Alexander, but honestly, I wasn’t feeling it. I did love Angelina Jolie being completely over-the-top as his mom, Olympias! The battle scenes were epic but confusing and the personal relationships felt awkward. I wished they had focused more on Alexander’s strategies rather than the love stuff. Overall, not my favorite historical epic.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of historical epics”
  • “Viewers interested in ancient history and military strategy”
  • “Those intrigued by complex character studies and political dramas”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Graphic violence and battle scenes”
  • “Mature themes including sexuality and political intrigue”
  • “Some disturbing images”

Professional Reviews

• The Macedonian Gazette: “Stone’s ‘Alexander’ is a visually ambitious but narratively disjointed attempt to capture the life of the great conqueror. Farrell’s portrayal lacks the charisma needed, and the film struggles to balance historical accuracy with compelling storytelling. Ultimately, it’s a sprawling epic that fails to truly connect with its audience, leaving us more confused than inspired.
• Babylonian Times: “While ‘Alexander’ boasts impressive battle sequences and exotic locales, it’s bogged down by clunky dialogue and uneven performances. Jolie’s scenery-chewing as Olympias is a highlight, but the film’s attempts to explore Alexander’s complex relationships feel superficial. It’s a grand spectacle, but ultimately hollow.
• Alexandria Review: “Oliver Stone’s ‘Alexander’ is a mess of historical inaccuracies and questionable casting choices. Colin Farrell lacks the charisma and presence needed to portray the legendary conqueror, and the film’s pacing is erratic. While visually stunning, it’s a disjointed and ultimately unsatisfying epic.

Audience Reactions

The battle scenes were visually stunning but often difficult to follow.: Many viewers appreciated the attempt to portray Alexander’s bisexuality but felt it was clumsily handled.

Angelina Jolie’s performance as Olympias was memorable, albeit over-the-top.: Some viewers enjoyed the film’s attempt to explore the complexities of Alexander’s character beyond the battlefield.

Overall Consensus: A visually ambitious but ultimately flawed epic, ‘Alexander’ struggles to balance historical accuracy with compelling storytelling and fails to fully capture the charisma of its subject.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Robin Lane Fox, an Oxford University professor and Alexander biographer, served as a historical advisor and participated in a cavalry charge scene.”
• “Oliver Stone reworked the third act and Alexander’s death scene in the Director’s Cut based on audience feedback.”
• “The film explores Alexander’s complex relationships, including his close bond with Hephaestion, which generated significant discussion and controversy.”

🖥️ How to Watch Alexander?

Alexander (2004) is currently available to rent or buy on several platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. Check local listings for cable availability. Unfortunately, it is not currently available on major streaming subscription services such as Netflix or Hulu.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Alexander, you might like these similar films:

• Troy (2004): Another epic historical drama focusing on a legendary conflict and its larger-than-life characters, particularly Achilles.
• Gladiator (2000): Features themes of betrayal, ambition, and the fall of a great leader within a historical Roman setting, similar to Alexander’s story.
• Braveheart (1995): Depicts a leader’s struggle for freedom and his impact on his people, even in the face of overwhelming odds, echoing Alexander’s conquests.
• Kingdom of Heaven (2005): Focuses on historical conflicts, leadership, and the clash of cultures during the Crusades, presenting a comparable epic scope.

🛒 Alexander Related Products

• Alexander: The Making of a Myth: Explore Alexander’s world through the lens of history with Robin Lane Fox’s detailed biography, diving into his military genius and personal life.
• Funko Pop! History: Alexander the Great: Display your fandom with this Funko Pop! figure of Alexander the Great! Featuring his iconic hairstyle and armor. Limited edition. Display case included.
• Alexander: Total War – Gold Edition: Relive the epic battles and strategic brilliance of Alexander in this critically acclaimed strategy game. Command armies, conquer empires, and forge your own legend.
• Replica Macedonian Shield: Own a piece of history with this high-quality replica of a Macedonian shield. Perfect for collectors, cosplay, or display. Handcrafted with attention to detail.

🎧 Soundtrack

Alexander features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Titans” – performed by Vangelis
• “Drums of Gaugamela” – performed by Vangelis
• “Roxane’s Dance” – performed by Vangelis

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Why Alexander the Great’s mother “Olympias” is the most Ruthless woman who ever lived

Curious about the enigmatic and ruthless mother of Alexander the Great? This video dives deep into Olympias’ life, uncovering her dark secrets and the profound influence she had on her son’s destiny. It’s a captivating historical analysis that adds a new dimension to the movie.

ALEXANDER THE GREAT: A Very Short Introduction | Animated Book Summary

Want to understand the real story behind the legend of Alexander the Great? This animated book summary gives you a quick and engaging overview of his extraordinary life and conquests. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in history or the movie itself.

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