Likewise, we never really see into Achilles’ heart. Pitt handles the role well (except for his scene opposite O’Toole, his only weak moment). His mother (Julie Christie) encourages Achilles to fight to make a name for himself, while knowing (rather mysteriously) that he will die. But what else makes this man so obsessed with fighting? The character we understand most is Hector, a faithful husband and father and a brave military leader. Bana does a great job with the part, despite being hampered by melodramatic dialogue (“Beloved cousin, you have grown beautiful in many moons”), a problem throughout the film. O’Toole is excellent, as are Cox, Gleason and Bean (in his first role since “Lord of the Rings”).

Because we don’t connect with the characters, it’s hard to feel sad when they are destroyed. The film’s antiwar message, which proclaims how vain and arrogant it is, further distances us from them – because we are not supposed to like men who like war. We come away feeling disgust for these leaders, despite their excellent military skills. The film also mocks faith in anything other than human strength, with characters who nonchalantly talk about protection from “the gods,” just before dying, and illogical “signs” from the priests. Christians will see a distinct difference between the inanimate, gold-plated Greek gods and the personal, powerful Jesus Christ. And the comparison between King Priam, who sacrificed thousands to save his son, and our heavenly King, who sacrificed his son to save the world, is dramatic.

Neither Achilles’ sexual proclivities nor Paris’ sins are dealt with on a moral level. They are portrayed as reckless but understandable. Moreover, Paris’ family condones his actions with their passivity. It’s an excellent illustration about the true cost of adultery – what it does to individuals, families and communities.

Ultimately, “Troy” offers lots to think about. It should remind us that we’re all at war, and how we fight our battles matters most of all.