Epic filmmaking has fallen out of favor, but The Eagle fights hard to bring it back. Marcus Aquila (Channing Tatum) chose to lead a Roman garrison in occupied Britain because that's where his father lost a military standar... more »d--a metal eagle, representing the glory of imperial Rome--on an expedition into the northern wilds. To reclaim his family honor, Aquila sets off into native territory to recover the eagle, with only a slave named Esca (Jamie Bell) to help him--but the more Aquila learns about Esca's history, the more he has reason to doubt his slave's loyalty. The Eagle starts with engaging momentum; this is a work of fiction, but there's an impressive commitment to the details of life, evoking the sights, sounds, and smells of a raw and brutal time. (Director Kevin Macdonald began as a documentarian, which no doubt contributes to his appreciation for grit and sweat.) Tatum is not the most versatile actor but he has enough solid charisma to anchor the movie; Bell's fluid emotional presence keeps their relationship dynamic. The movie loses steam in the last third, as the outcome is never really in doubt and the plot mechanics start to feel a bit rote. But for anyone with an interest in the era, or who simply enjoys a taste of blood and thunder, The Eagle has pleasures aplenty. --Bret Fetzer« less
Actors:Channing Tatum, Mark Strong Director:Kevin Macdonald Studio:Focus Features Format:DVD DVD Release Date: 06/21/2011 Theatrical Release Date: 00/00/2010 Release Year: 2011 Run Time: 1hr 54min Number of Discs: 1 SwapaDVD Credits: 1 Total Copies: 0 Members Wishing: 0
Jean W. from JORDANVILLE, NY Reviewed on 9/3/2014...
an interesting story with some good acting, but quite predictable.
2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Amber M. from MORROW, GA Reviewed on 12/19/2013...
In my opinion, this is the best movie Channing Tatum has done so far in his career. And that goes for Jamie Bell too. The story is very dramatic and becomes personal, not just for them but for me too. The historical details are all handled wonderfully, and I always end this movie cheering and laughing and crying. I recommend this movie to everyone who loves movies based in history and ancient cultures.
2 of 3 member(s) found this review helpful.
Jerome G. from LA CRESCENTA, CA Reviewed on 8/17/2011...
Channing Tatum has his best role to date in this fictional story from a true time period.
The Romans have conquered most of Europe and parts of Asia, but each time they try to invade the cold, barren lands (Scotland)north of Brittania ( England) they get their arses kicked!
They have tried for 10 years to destroy The Picts, but failed. Hadrian's wall is built and Rome washes its hands of the matter. Turns out that is as far as it goes with true historical events. The rest is pure entertainment and the quest for a lost Roman guide-on of a huge, golden eagle. Marcus(Tatum) takes his slave with him and they infiltrate
the Pict stronghold.
Rousing entertainment, and a pure joy just to see the beautiful scenery of Scotland.
Surprisingly a well-made movie with Donald Sutherland and the talented actor who played
'The King of Louisiana' on True Blood (HBO). Don't bother with the previous reviewer. Man up and see the UNrated Version which is also included on the DVD.( More blood and legs getting chopped off!)
4 of 4 member(s) found this review helpful.
Kellie S. (momof3jkids) from CINCINNATI, OH Reviewed on 8/2/2011...
This movie was very slow. I lost interest after the first 20 mins or so. I can' really tell you if it got any better, as I stopped watching it. I was not impressed at all with the movie.