review: ALEXANDER REVISITED: THE FINAL CUT (Blu-ray)

Warner  //  Buy from Amazon.com Now available is an all new and completely unrated version of Oliver Stone's incredible epic film, loaded with nearly 40 minutes of additional never-before-seen footage, that takes the film to a new level of realism and intensity. Restructured and expanded into two acts with one intermission, Oliver Stone's vision is delivered the way he originally conceived and intended. With the new, unrated and graphic battle scenes and unadulterated sensuality, it's the movie you couldn't see in theatres, now available on DVD for the very first time! Version 1 of "Alexander" didn't fare too well in the theaters or on DVD, so Version 2 ("Director's Cut") was put out to add a bit more to flush out the story - unfortunately, with the same tepid result and left behind a still-unstatisfied director. So, we get "Alexander Revisited" - at 213 minutes (that's nearly 4 hours!), this surely has to bev the definitive version of this film. Oliver Stone does have a reputation for ego and an inflated sense of self, and he certainly took his lumps for this film, but after sitting through this version (in 2 sittings), I have to say that much of the criticism shoved his way was unfair and/or unwarranted. In "Alexander Revisited" Stone has crafted a film that is certainly epic and sweeping, and probably does fall short of its lofty ambitions, but it is also an engrossing, powerful film that captivates with its rich production, amazing set design and (mostly) solid acting throughout. He gives it his all, but I have a tough time buying Colin Farrell as the great Alexander. Thankfully, the rest of the cast (and the overall production) more than makes up for this shortcoming and makes this a film well worth experiencing (although at 213 minutes, it's not for everyone.) Enjoyable, epic, ambitious and a shining example of all the majesty Blu-ray has to offer! Video Unbelievable - presented in a 2.40:1 widescreen transfer, the 1080p image of this nearly 4-hour-long film is stellar on Blu-ray, with razor sharp detail, amazingly rich colors and not a single blemish in sight. Phenomenal. Audio The included Dolby 5.1 surround mix is more than up for the task of delivering the ear candy and does so on par with the quality of the video portion. Extras introduction by Oliver Stone audio commentary by Oliver Stone audio commentary by Alexander historian/biographer "Fight Against Time: Oliver Stone's Alexander" feature-length documentary trailers Closing Thoughts Truly epic film to show off all the capabilities of Blu-ray + strong assortment of extras = easy recommendation for a (very) solid night's viewing