Despite his bad boy image, Russell Crowe is an actor for our time. He can integrate a softer side with power in his roles. This is a great adventure with magnificent seascapes and intrigue. The producers went to great length to make the presentation of life aboard the ship true to the period. Many of the seamen were actually children, even officers, who commanded the older, but less educated crew. As with most movies about ships at this time, the claustrophobic nature of the life was always evident. Crowe's character, Captain Aubrey, is duty bound to risk it all, against better "advice." All choices rest with him; it is his ship. The younger actors project an adulation that leads them to overlook their insecurities and latch on to bravery in the face of insurmountable odds. It's a French ship; they have no choice, thought they may die.
The special effects are fine. Like so many movies of it's kind, at times the ship seems 400 feet long and at times 40 feet. So much action goes on on deck and above, on the masts. There are also some real human stories as subplots, including that of a young man who rides at the breaking point. The battle scenes are breathtaking. I wonder if there will be a sequel.
The special effects are fine. Like so many movies of it's kind, at times the ship seems 400 feet long and at times 40 feet. So much action goes on on deck and above, on the masts. There are also some real human stories as subplots, including that of a young man who rides at the breaking point. The battle scenes are breathtaking. I wonder if there will be a sequel.