Centurion (2010)

Directed by: Neil Marshall | 97 minutes | action, drama, thriller, war, adventure | Actors: Michael Fassbender, Dominic West, Olga Kurylenko, Noel Clarke, David Morrisey, JJ Feild, Axelle Carolyn, Riz Ahmed, Dave Legeno, Ulrich Thomsen, James Currie, Dhaffer L’Abidine, Hamish Moir, Imogen Poots, Rachael Stirling

Neil Marshall is a hero. Point. In his short career, the British filmmaker has already recorded one modern classic (‘The Descent’), a cult hit (‘Dog Soldiers’) and a tough ‘Mad Max’ pastiche (‘Doomsday’). The cinematographer’s latest achievement has the resounding name ‘Centurion’. Also a direct hit? After a slew of fictional stories, the historian in Marshall emerges. Although… Although ‘Centurion’ is slightly based on historical facts, the director also drew from the unbridled inspiration that is in his thick thumb. The history books do not tell exactly how it went with his characters, a couple of Romans on the run.

Time: 117 AD. Location: Britain. The brutal General Virilus (West) has been ordered to exterminate the rebellious Picts. The tribe causes the necessary problems in the region. However, the legion of hardened warriors is not prepared for the ferocious attacking techniques of the enemy. When the general is captured, a group of survivors led by Quintus (Fassbender) tries to free him.

‘Centurion’ is a special movie. On the one hand, the production contains the typical Marshall characteristics such as strong women (Kurylenko), chases and liters of blood. The film is almost overly violent at times. Beheadings, amputations and other extreme bloodshed are no exception. On the other hand, this is an odd one out in the Brit’s repertoire. ‘Centurion’ is serious, humorless and almost Spartan. The film tells a tightly measured story and also very perfunctory. There is no time for short asides or putting things into perspective. Marshall tries something new, but the historical jacket doesn’t fit him. It hinders him in his fantasy. Give the man some monsters and high-tech action and he’ll let himself go. ‘Centurion’ is flat. The cast does a decent job, but no more than that. In ‘The Descent’ and ‘Doomsday’ the actors were pushed to the limit and that resulted in spectacle. Fassbender and West play nice, but you can expect more fireworks from these guys. Kurylenko is the only one who really makes something of her (silent) role (if only to get rid of her image as a Bond girl).

‘Centurion’ is definitely entertaining, but don’t expect a masterpiece. This ‘Gladiator’ meets ‘Rambo’ looks nice and that’s about it. Not a direct hit, but a glancing shot can also be effective.