[warthog]

The 13th Warrior

I'm of a mixed opinion on this one. At first I was thinking this is a ripoff of "Beowulf". But then I am reminded of a description I heard of a book called "Eaters of the Dead" and this is probably more like that book. I have read the former but not the latter (yet). This also reminds me of many other period sagas such as Heimskringla and Edda.

The casting seems dead on, EXCEPT the lead role played by Antonio Banderez (sp?). He is clearly latino, but playing a middle eastern character (probably from Iraq). I think the producers were looking for a recognizable face instead of casting the part with an actor of the correct ethnicity. This does detract somewhat from the film, and makes it a little harder to suspend your disbelief for the film. The supporting actors however were totally convincing in their roles and more than make up for the discrepancy.

The film was brilliant in making you believe along with the main characters that the antagonists were of a mystical nature. You really start to empathize with them, despite their strange customs and ethics.

Being a minor buff of Viking sagas this movie was an especially welcome change of pace for me from the typical dreck that Hollywood spews forth. I enjoyed this movie, and I'm glad to have this in my collection.