Why we remember the Achilles vs Hector fight

[@the46thchamber65]

My dad would joke that Achilles was going to be out of stamina for the fight because he was outside the gate yelling “HECTOR!!!” for too long 😂

[@adamantium4797]

Hmm interesting point tho

[@andydufresnefromshawshank5866]

Idk why Hector couldn’t just go up the top of the walls and yell down. “Hey I’m Coming!”

[@DropDeadFredo]

Core memory

[@ericm3327]

He’s not wrong

[@fromthescreen123]

@@andydufresnefromshawshank5866 🤣

[@DopyWantsAPeanut]

Another element in the Iliad not pictured here, is that this fight is a metaphor for Achilles choosing his own fate. In the Iliad, the prophecy is that Achilles will fight in the war and die in the war while achieving immortality, or will long a long happy life and be known by no one. Achilles is set to pull out of the war and return home to live happily ever after, when Patroclus is killed. Hector kills Patroclus (who is wearing Achille's armor) and takes Achilles armor and wears it as his own. The gods make a new set of armor for Achilles, and its magnificent compared to the old set. When Hector and Achilles duel, it's like the new immortal Achilles is dueling the old Achilles (Hector in his armor), and Achilles killing Hector is like Achilles killing his old self, killing his chance at a family and happiness, and sealing his fate per the prophecy. It's a powerful metaphor seated within an already powerful plot.

[@deenikki9690]

Spot on! I really appreciate this comment.

[@ErikDayne]

This is pretty interesting. They certainly made a point in the movie of showing how Hector had a family. It never occurred to me how that contrasts with Achilles prophecy. Also from another point of view maybe this adds to Achilles anger in that moment. He was told he couldn’t be a legendary warrior and also have a family, but here’s Hector standing before him, a legendary warrior who also had a family. Maybe on some level Achilles was jealous that Hector had both fame and love and he didn’t have to choose.

[@treyborn2931]

One standing slow clap for that explanation... it just made the movie even better for me

[@adib3011]

U forgot to mention that hector ran, struck by fear from Achilles. They circled the city a couple times, until Athena whispered in hectors ear pretending to be aphrodite. He turned and got fcked.

[@LiberterianShoelace]

I miss this level of layered storytelling. Modern movies ain't it 😂

[@cpfpv6410]

I remember seeing this fight for the first time and how emotionally crushing it was to see such an honorable warrior be picked apart and viciously killed in full view of his family he desperately wants to and ultimately fails to protect.

[@jjackson6082]

Right! You want Achilles to STOP

[@JDoe-gf5oz]

He should have trained harder.

[@gtassa01]

@@JDoe-gf5oz why?

[@andrew-rn9ui]

I was cheering for achilles cause hes achilles

[@andrew-rn9ui]

​@@JDoe-gf5ozi dont think training harder mattered against achilles he was said to be immortal except for his ankle / achilles tendon but once he got an arrow through the weak point he lost his immortality

[@Rhyskendall8]

Might want to put a spoiler alert, the story has only been around 2,700 years. Great breakdown man!

[@fromthescreen123]

😂

[@cheefussmith9380]

Haha

[@angelcanez4426]

I won't let a stone steal my glory is such a badass line

[@TheMisternish]

There are no pacts between lions and men

[@franklinviele2399]

My favorite part of this film is when Achilles looks at the camera and says, “only Franklin Michael Viele can go toe to toe with me!” Awesome part, really spoke to me.

[@pureblood3823]

A gay Achilles line

[@franklinviele2399]

@@pureblood3823 never watched the homo sexual version of this film. I’ll leave that to you. Thanks for letting us all know what your into lol No judgment tho. Do your thing, or in your specific case, someone else’s. Merry Christmas ya “merry” 🤣

[@ridiqulos]

I remember when this movie came out, it was basically laughed at and not taken seriously. After a few decades, this movie is actually great and definitely re-watchable.

[@fromthescreen123]

Yeah definitely It’s such an epic

[@donrennis7585]

I never understood why it was criticized at the time. This was one of my most watch DVDS back in the day. Looking back though, maybe it's because so many similar, historical movies were being made at the time, after the success of gladiator. People got sick of them maybe.

[@DarthWombat]

Because it was inaccurate af. It was epic, and I've definitely watched the fuck out of it because I love Greek mythology. But yeah, I got shat on because it's inaccurate.

[@mdd4296]

@@DarthWombat What is even accurate in a story based on myth lol. Snobby critics refuse to engage with this movie as a movie even when their job is reviewing movies, not history or myth. Now, critics demands distortion of historical facts not even for the sake of the movie's qualities, the critic circle has absolutely no integrity at all. On the other hand, gladiator 1 was praised despite basing on actual history and riddled with inaccuracy. Great movie nonetheless.

[@Crazytruut]

I am a huge fan and avid reader of greek philosophy. This movie was epic and a great watch. But in the story of troy, Achilles was just one of the many pieces that made this story the timeless epic that it is. Also blatant inaccuraties that anyone that glanced over Homer’s story would never make. This movie split me

[@DarrellTurnerJr]

"There are no pacts between lions and men" is some next level dialogue

[@AeneasGemini]

that's because it's from the Iliad (paraphrased but still)

[@babylonian.captivity]

Homer was pretty good with the words.

[@Zed-fq3lj]

Shaky camera is the greatest disgrace of the hacks dabbling in cinema. This fight is shot like a poetry in motion.

[@fromthescreen123]

@@Zed-fq3lj 100%

[@akairborne]

Shaky cam is the shortcut to be able to not pay people to learn how to fight and dance.

[@davidglenn2739]

Shaky cam isn't always bad. It has it's place when not overused.

[@erdelegy]

I've always felt that same way when a singer trembles their voice around the actual note, instead of just singing the note cleanly.

[@aidan32]

These guys thoughts were clear…. Not shaky

[@SamP-by7iv]

The choreography in this film was awesome.

[@Diogolindir]

Yes, it was the first time I thought that spear fighting is cool

[@AlexPitbull3823]

even with its flaws its still a great movie years later

[@JDoe-gf5oz]

Definitely. Loved the shoving and how they used their shields and Achilles his greaves. Hollywood movies tend to forget the characters are wearing armor and only have them use the weapons in their hands.

[@FeanorToro]

The assault on Apolo's temple ❤

[@j3d89]

Agree😂 ​@@Diogolindir

[@likelovehahawow]

It also benefits from blows aimed at the opponent instead of blows aimed at their sword. Every strike is purposeful instead of theatrical. Even blows directed at shields are clearly designed to stagger and push and not just for an audience

[@ErikDayne]

Yeah that’s the worst when they’re just swinging at each others swords and it’s obvious. Like the fight from the Last Jedi, it just looks ridiculous.

[@davidglenn2739]

Yes! Almost always lacking these days.

[@arh9068]

What are you smoking? That is *not* a realistic fight at all...

[@davidglenn2739]

@@arh9068 please offer some better examples

[@arh9068]

@davidglenn2739 the way he puts his shield behind his head, the fact that they aim attacks at each other's shields, the incredibly slow pace of them exchanging blows, them exchanging blows instead of blocking and attacking at the same time, the over all choreography.... need I go on?

[@1FokkerAce]

I love the short scene of Achilles breathing hard. He’s winded…. And you can tell that he’s impressed. And that he loves it. You can tell he loves that he finally gets to fight a peer opponent. Just a second on the screen but it’s so great and adds so much.

[@bikeman1x11]

but the fact he cant cant be killed doesnt hurt his bravado

[@drointhewind480]

I love that one shot where Achilles takes a deep breath, you can see it in the face its the first time a fight has gone this long

[@ARVETDEG]

One key aspect that I love about this scene, is that when Hector comes out to face Aquiles, is the background. It shows why and for what they're fighting for. Hector is fighting for his family and city, something that matters thus why its filled, whereas Aquiles is fighting for hismlef and his pride showing us an emptiness behind him, meaning he's fighting for nothing.

[@JonMacmahon]

He's fighting for pratoklos too

[@highlanderc]

achilles wins.

[@erickpalacios8904]

Or you could also imagine it's Achilles fighting for the one thing he cares/cared about other than himself: patroclus.

[@ErikDayne]

@@erickpalacios8904I like how Priam puts Achilles in his place though when he tries to say that Hector killed his cousin and Priam just asks Achilles how many men he had killed. That makes Achilles realize that all he’s feeling, the anger and loss, he’s dished that out to others a thousand times so he really has no right to complain now. Especially when he’s the one that brought Patroclus to Troy in the first place.

[@bikeman1x11]

he is fighting to avenge patroclus a boy who was killed by hector in what was not a fair fight - Achilles is there to prove that he is the greatest fighter and he doesnt alway do the bidding of his king

[@ericm3327]

Hector’s wife’s reactions her worry his fathers teary eyes and then the contrast on Achilles side the cheering and the screaming. But it wouldn’t be so memorable without the aftermath, the king risking his life, Achilles weeping and kissing Hector’s feet, him telling Priam that he is a much better king than the one he follows. All of it is just perfect

[@johnv6806]

He said hes a much better king than the one leading the greek army. Achilles never really followed or liked Agamemnom

[@ChrisNalbantian]

I also think the fact that Achilles starts to take deep breathes shows hes not used to fighting one person for so long. One of the best fights ever on screen in my opinion

[@Mrhandyhitman]

Deep breathes to me means he’s focusing more based on how he was doing it. When you are scared, nervous, or anxious it usually helps you think clearly in dicy situations. That’s my take

[@naughtyUphillboy]

Correct !!!!!!!!

[@ChrisNalbantian]

@@Mrhandyhitman yeah that definitely make sense. but being scared, nervous, or anxious doesn't sound like Achilles to me. I like your take tho

[@petergianakopoulos4926]

Breaths.. not breathEs

[@Peer165]

Excellent video as always. I always saw it as Duty vs Glory with Hector and Achillies. It's one of my favorite movie fights of all time. Impeccable coreography and very well-shot.

[@aracelymoran2504]

+@Peer165 Exactly. Duty over Glory. One could also say Hector was after glory also, challenging "achiles" (really Patrocolus) and slaying the famed warrior. He ACHIEVED his glory but was denied it finding out it was not Achilles. Movie does Hector wrong portraying Patrocolus as easy to detect, hence in achilles logic, hector HAD to know. Bull crap. Both Achilles and Patrocolus were blood so they had similarities, were both warriors, hence were obligated to stay fit, muscular and top of their game skill wise. ALL the Acheans thought it was Achiles as Trojans and Hector did. Physically they were basically identical,but not skill wise. Him doning Achiles armor was like seeing Achiles himself. So, this goes to my recent post, what grievance could Achilles have other than grief, to slay Hector and humiliate his body over the death of someone who CHOSE to be in the battlefield knowing full well what the results could be (live or die).

[@Gabriel-uz7ms]

​@aracelymoran2504 I think it's the fuel of grief and loss that what drives Achilles in the movie. Remember, it's not just a cousin he lost, but his "little brother" to him. One that he had hope to prevent seeing the realities of war and becoming cursed like him. In a weird way Achilles was protecting not only his "Little brother" but also a past version of himself, like youthful innocence and Naivety that patroclus represented. After losing both a younger version of himself and his "little brother" he is only filled with rage at the man who had slayed patroclus.

[@aracelymoran2504]

@@Gabriel-uz7ms Great analysis. Makes a lot of sense. Pondering over this post and I think that is what Homer was conveying in the Patrocolus/Achilles relationship. But as for grief, you'd think he would want revenge on Agamemnon and the Acheam heroes who had to have known something was off with the "Achilles" (Patrocolus) in the battlefield yet went a long with it. There must have been verbal cntact with "Achillese" to know it was not the real Achilles. It served THEM letting Patrocilus pretend to be Achilles. There is more BLAME on them than Hector who was just doing his job and what was expected in the battlefield - defeat your foe and survive for another day.

[@Gabriel-uz7ms]

@aracelymoran2504 He was more so mad at the man who had killed Patroclus than those who indirectly killed him. A man of great pride wrath that what Achilles was, and one could say he tunnel visioned on Hector unfortunately

[@thickymcghee7681]

Dude you are so correct, the shaky handheld view made this fight completely different. The static camera gives so much more control to Achilles.

[@kagekun1198]

I find the contrast in values between the ancient Greeks and the audience today fascinating. When the Iliad was written back then, it was Achilles who was admired. The invincible, untouchable hero who could never be defeated. But now, it is Hector who is admired. A man so driven by love for his family, his country and his sense of honor that he'll face certain death for them all.

[@robertlehnert4148]

Some academics have thought Homer had far more sympathy for the Trojans, even if his Greek audience largely missed it.

[@8Smoker8]

Nah, not really. It was clearly more about Hector even back then. Which is a bit of a cliché tbh.

[@AlyssMa7rin]

@@8Smoker8 It's not a Cliche if it was one of the first examples of something.

[@wingthomaux]

What are your assumptions about the ancient audience based on?

[@8Smoker8]

@@AlyssMa7rin ofc it wasn't a cliché back then.

[@flatcat6676]

I've always thought this movie was underrated when it first came out. It's a good film, and I'm not sure how any other feature length films could do a better adaptation of the sprawling epic told by Homer about the Trojan War, but it is THIS fight scene that has had me coming back to watch the film at least once a year for the better part of two decades now. Identifying Hector and Achilles as two poles, Honor and Pride, is a brilliant observation, and it's added a new shade to the fight that I hadn't consciously thought of before. This was an excellent breakdown. I'm looking forward to watching more on your channel!

[@fromthescreen123]

@@flatcat6676 Yeah it’s such an underrated epic this film! Thanks for watching, glad you enjoyed it :)

[@smido1284]

It was Achilles circling-round after the first clash of the shields…man the choreography is crazy…that pose with his shield overheard and sword out 🔥🔥

[@vibechecker3168]

I know that Troy is that kind of mythology adaptation where they don't put much attention on the gods if at all, but you you can almost feel the difference in this fight. Hector is good. The best even, but Achilles is war and battle and bloodshed made manifest. He is on a whole other level compared to Hector. Even an unmotivated, jaded Achilles swept through men on autopilot, but Hector gave him that motivation back. And you can tell. Sing, O Muse, of the rage of Achilles.

[@anhnhvn]

To me this movie is not an adaptation, but instead asks the question "what inspired the mythology?" which is a much ballsier choice. There were no gods, just men whose stories became legends, then became myth.

[@Mewwnii]

5:00 I've always viewed this scene as Achilles showing that he's the better of the two fighters! Purposely handicapping himself by not actually using the shield even though Hector is. I'd thought it fit with what we're shown of his braggart/glory hungry personality. Though I do really like your interpretation of Achilles realizing he needs to fight smarter against such a strong opponent 😊

[@JDoe-gf5oz]

Is he really glory hungry thought? He cuts through his enemies with economy and only toys with Hector out of anger because Hector murdered his cousin.

[@jordanglasper1064]

This was a most pleasant excellent break down. I’m not only to fight choreography, but each move Between each opponent, shells and tells us as the audience who these individuals are what they are fighting for it and how will they fight. You have given an analytical perspective that is exceedingly rare as it is genuine. Much appreciation, just subscribed, notifications bell on!!!

[@tolucafan101]

4:45 No wasted movements! His side step was used to block the blade with his shin guard while strengthening his stance! 😎

[@fromthescreen123]

@@tolucafan101 Yeah! It’s seriously such an underrated choreographed fight 👏🏽

[@felipepereverzieff1992]

The heck, man, your videos are just great! Keep up the great work. This makes me relive the old, great epic movies we used to watch on the cassette player. I miss the good old movies that are no longer being produced for reasons we all already know.

[@fromthescreen123]

@@felipepereverzieff1992 thanks man, glad you’re enjoying them :) Yeah they just don’t make them like this anymore (and yes for reasons we already know) but I have a feeling all that noise will die out in years to come and they’ll start putting out bangers again

[@jameshorne9351]

This was a great movie & this was an epic fight scene, one that was exceptionally choreographed. Both actors did an outstanding job, but Brad Pitt iconic attacks were like watching a master at work, he made Achilles truly come to life as a "worrior demigod" just as one would expect of Achilles if they know his story.

[@mordaen850]

Such a great analysis. Thank you. I think it's one of the best fights ever shot.

[@fromthescreen123]

@@mordaen850 glad you enjoyed it :)

[@HereForTheBeef]

To me that long shot coming out the gate made Achilles look like a predator. Like a lion on the Serengeti. "There are no pacts between lions and men 🗿" cool breakdown!

[@ThePauseMenuVlog]

I fucking love film analysis and psychology breakdowns of movies!

[@fromthescreen123]

Me too! :)

[@hstafford078]

This has always been one of my favorite fights scenes. The static camera and the wide shots let you see exactly what is going on, and the actors did a phenomenal job. I enjoyed your breakdown and evaluation of the scene.

[@damianstarks3338]

Perfect in depth video on this iconic fight and characters

[@Jiraiyashouse666]

Only the Viper vs the Mountain held as much gravitas as this fight. Please do that breakdown as well. Great job... liked and subbed!

[@fromthescreen123]

Oooo good suggestion! I’ll add that to my list and look into it :) Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@Michael-dy2lb]

You forgot about one of the most famous sword fights in cinema history, Inigo Mantoya against the Man in Black.

[@tomharrington1453]

Excellent video. My personal preference was the fight between Hector and Ajax. Ajax was terrifying and destroying the Trojan formation. Hector did not want to fight him. But knew he was the only fighter on the Trojan side who had a chance. Someone had to face the giant. It was pure heroism.

[@fromthescreen123]

Yeah 100%

[@riggit9134]

Another detail I liked was Achilles wasn't wasting energy with his dodges/parries. Small but precise movements so he didn't tire as quickly. Steps over a low swing at 4:58. Blocks with shield resting on his shoulder 5:53. Somehow intercepts Hectors sword with his foot in the next shot at 5:55.

[@Michael-dy2lb]

The final block you mention wasn't with his foot. It was with his greaves, armor plate protecting his shins. The slash was meant to attack his calf or ankle from the rear, but he deftly turned his foot to take the slash on the greave.

[@riggit9134]

@Michael-dy2lb Ok, that makes sense. It looked cool so I figured I'd share lol.

[@Michael-dy2lb]

@@riggit9134 Oh, it was very cool. And it really showed the level of skill Achilles had, that he could be aware of the incoming slash and instead of jumping back or trying to block with the shield or parry, he almost casually just turned his leg to block it.

[@majinchello5948]

This attention to detail really get my blood flowing. I appreciate what was put in to make this video. Me and this guy could talk for days breaking down this movie.

[@fromthescreen123]

100%

[@therealjesuschrist9160]

Another fantastic breakdown. I’m loving this channel and it’s gives me something to watch on my lunch breaks. Thanks ❤

[@fromthescreen123]

Thanks :) Glad you’re enjoying them!

[@emorywarren8311]

This is by far one of the best choreographed fights in cinema. And props to highlighting the cinematography. Too many fights now are shaky cam and quick cuts. Which takes you out of it. These two actors actually duked it out. And because it was filmed as such. It shows and comes across so meaningful to the story.

[@Curbsidehustle87]

After your very precise breakdown I will never be able to watch a movie the same way your knowledge on Filmography is amazing perfect breakdown guy

[@logicalparadox2897]

I remember seeing this movie in the theater and was blown away by it. I went back two more times to see it bringing different people I knew each time. I really don't understand and I think it's a real shame that this film got so beaten up by critics and audiences alike. It was probably the best epics since gladiator and I love that they did a realistic approach on what might have actually happened to inspire the myths and legends rather than taking the supernatural mythological approach. Also I hate shakey cam lol. Stop trying to make me feel like I'm in the fight myself. I'm the audience and I want to actually be able to see what's going on. I always knew there was something different about the way this fight scene was shot compared to contemporaries, and I couldn't ever put my finger on what it was but you nailed it... It's that steady shot, which makes the action in the choreography all the more impressive because it's not being obfuscated by noise.

[@ab-hx8qe]

Thank you for making this. I’ve been looking for a channel with this kind of thoughtful analysis.

[@fromthescreen123]

Glad you enjoyed it :)

Great analysis. This is one of my favorite movies and to this day I still dont understand why people make fun of the film. This movie all forms of awesome.

[@stefanpfitzer3467]

Got this in my recommendations. You’re absolutely right… Epic!

[@graemetang4173]

I feel like this scene was the first truly "special" fight scene I ever saw. Great choreography, great plot development, and shot in a way that lets us actually see every detail of what is happening and it looks GOOD

[@aracelymoran2504]

Achiles was just a self centered bloodthirsty warlord, whose thrill was the fight itself, hence his need to want to fight Hector to avenge the death of some one who voluntarily chose to go into the battlefield where death was one of the outcomes. Achiles had no reason to feel resentful toward Hector for doing his job as a warrior (slay his enemies and live another day), whereas Patrocolus failed as a warrior (dying). There was no need to humiliate Hector's dead body. A real "dick" move on his part. But fate/karma/casuality took care of Achiles and had him die is the most humiliating way - from a sissy ass arrow, not on the battlefield by a great warrior as hector's fate was.

[@iwritechecksatthegrocerystore]

I mean you know it’s because in the Iliad they’re lovers right? 😂😂. That’s why Achilles takes his death so personally. And not like I’m a “oh I’m so woke, put a chick in it and make her gay” way. It’s still a decent movie but it’s a bad adaptation.

[@bikeman1x11]

the point of dragging the body around the city was that Achilles told him thats was what he said he would do . The point is that a Greek always keeps his promise

[@SmootholdGuy]

Not to mention how he felt remorse for what he did to Hector. He knew he deserved better than his vengeance gave him.

[@shino8854]

Lions don't make pacts with men. The King does what the fook he wants.

[@aracelymoran2504]

@@bikeman1x11 A lot of capping there. So dragging his body naked and exposed in public was just a thing to do for kicks? Get real. Like Achilles cared what people thought if he didn't do it. If he cared less what Agamemnon and the "heroes" thought, why care what random strangers would think?

[@mattynes]

Great video on one of the most epic sword duels in movie history

[@TheDavesTV]

The shaky cam gave it that classic, hectic, visceral fight, but after your analysis, the steady cam contributed to the feeling of watching two masters in a game of chess. It's incredible!

[@garyb2392]

One of my favorite fight scenes ever! Insightful analysis! TY!

[@fromthescreen123]

Glad you enjoyed it :)

[@VanDammagge]

Jesus man im glad i found your channel about two months back and gladER that i subscribed.. your videos are immaculately sublime

[@fromthescreen123]

@@VanDammagge thanks :) Glad you’re enjoying them!

[@GustafStechmann]

excellent analysis. a much underrated movie. the amount of thought, work and training that went into it, is unbelievable

[@fgstech4857]

Troy is one of my favorite films. Excellent breakdown!

[@fromthescreen123]

@@fgstech4857 glad you enjoyed it!

[@Synthetic-Rabbit]

I saw this movie at launch and I've always loved it. I fancied myself a bit of a movie snop when this came out when I was in high school and I remember Roger Ebert ranking this movie as "the worst movie of the year". I always liked it and I've watched this fight on KZbin probably 100 times over the years. I'm happy people are kind of coming around on this flick - it's a lot of fun.

[@hemmydall]

Love this fight scene; one of the best. Don't know how many times I've watched it now.

[@nath_rages]

Fantastic analysis, mate. I especially enjoyed the point about a static camera being used compared to the "erratic" hand-held camera style (which we seem to see all-too-often in fight/duel scenes these days). As epic a duel as it was, and even with Hector marking Achille's armour, the way it was filmed just reinforced that as impressive as Hector was, he was never a threat.

[@frankhy]

Never realized the shield behind his head would help balance his sword attacks! Makes sense though. I always thought he was raising it to block the sun so it would be harder for Hector to see what direction the sword attack was coming from. Kind of like how when you're driving on the freeway and if the sun is setting behind the signs its really hard to read the exit names.

[@Quietpart]

Phenomenal breakdown, you know your craft! Subbed.

[@fromthescreen123]

@@Quietpart thanks :) Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ZarekSilberschmidt]

This is such a cool analysis, thanks for all the work, really enjoyed this.

[@fromthescreen123]

Thanks :) Glad you enjoyed it!

[@dinodudeGR]

Awesome presentation and analysis of this legendary fight! I love it myself and I think it's not only one of the best fights that happened on screen, but one of the best scenes in general that we watched in theaters. One thing I want to add to your presentation that I always believed it is really important. The over the shoulder scene with Hector watching Achilles has 4 things that are of great importance. Two of those things are the fighters themselves. The other is the empty field. The scortching Troyan sands that are so hot during the middle of the day when the fight takes place. The other? It's the legenday chariot. That chariot has two horses called Balius and Xanthus, and are themselves immortal "just like Achilles is". The story piece of Achilles dragging the body of Hector on the hot sands of Troy is mythical to say the least and it has been immortalised with myriad of sculptures and paintings all over Greece. Im greek myself and watching the giant painting in Corfu at the Achilleion Palace was my favorite thing. That scene in the movie shows everything that Hector is about to face. Achilles, death, the chariot and the hot sands of Troy. It's unbelievable how good that whole fight is!

[@DYLANBROCHILL]

This was a great scene, thanks for the breakdown!

[@fromthescreen123]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@akanji8285]

Something that sells Achilles mythic fighting prowess, at least for me, is that in almost any other movie like this, a protagonist would block an attack. But often Achilles will move his leg or whatever out of the way instead. IMO that feels like something you could only do if you were so unbelievably skilled you’re almost divine.

[@briansamaniego-howard1806]

I liked that a lot of the moves Achilles has done in previous fights is tried on hector. Idk if anyone ever caught that, but watch his sword/spear play up to the point in this movie. It's awesome

[@themr_wilson]

I still hear the sounds -- incredible sound design in Troy

[@JayVicky007]

To this day, I still haven't come across any character that fights like Achilles did in Troy. His combat style was so unique.

[@petra_kalbrain4426]

Troy has always been severely underrated and undervalued. Seriously EVERYTHING about it is magnificently produced. I can’t wait for my son (6 years old) to get older so we can watch these epic tales of mythology together and discuss their thematic relevance to the human experience.

[@Novastar.SaberCombat]

The fight was pretty awesome in many ways, including the shot choices, positioning, etc.

[@rikimaruakanomad2]

"He doesn't fight battles, he ends them" so apt

[@chrismathis5601]

This film is one of my favorite war films of all time. It’s a beautiful portrayal even though the subject matter is so grim.

[@rickblaine9670]

Troy undoubtedly changes a lot of things from the source material - Hector is not so noble in the Iliad, for instance - but Pitt’s Achilles is actually lore accurate: Homer’s Achilles is not invulnerable, he is simply very skilled, and most importantly VERY fast. The prodigious speed of his footwork is constantly referenced.

[@zedlx]

No one wants to watch Achilles chase Hector around Troy three times.

[@Tommy_verde]

Outstanding breakdown of the fight

[@fromthescreen123]

Thanks :) Glad you enjoyed it!

[@tomdalsin5175]

Great vid. The whole "honor vs. pride/glory" really works well: Hector's strength came from duty and honor. When he reached for glory, all he got was shame by looking the fool by killing the wrong guy (and wearing Achilles' armor in the Iliad, "wearing glory"), and that shame weakened him. Hence he displayed cowardice in the Iliad, and in both the film and book his new weakness doomed him against Achilles. Achilles' strength came from pride and glory. In the Iliad Hector (symbolizing honor) prophesized Achilles' death; when Achilles "killed duty & honor" it cursed him. When he went even further and forgot his glory, and instead became obsessed with vengeance by desecrating Hector's corpse, he poisoned everyone's view of him, including himself and the gods. His glory and pride were stained, he was cursed by honor, and this stain and curse doomed him. If Hector remained true, and didn't seek false glory, he would not have been killed by Achilles. If Achilles remained true to his path of glory, he wouldn't have sent Patroclus off to die, he wouldn't have been cursed by the death of honor or stained by his vengeance, and so he would not have been killed by Paris. I guess the Iliad is saying to stay true to your path.

[@TheNamesBliss]

I'm not here to watch the video, just here to leave a like on it. Troy is one of my all time favorites. I remember that one Greek soldier falling as they storm the walls to this day. Makes me giggle every time I think about it

[@davew8841]

I agree completely. I remember going in to see this moment, knowing what was to come, because it is one of the great mythological duels. The Director must have known he needed to present something special because the outcome was so well known. It did feel like a duel between men...not a man and a demi-god. The whole movie, there was this ambiguous feeling about Achilles....waiting for the god to appear...but, in the end, he was just a man. Great stuff.

[@sparaz]

Diane Kruger could get it back during this movie, I always wished she was in more movies. Pitt was in inglorious bastards with her too

[@JDoe-gf5oz]

Rose Byrne mogs her though.

[@Truffle_Pup]

Starting to really love your channel mate. Brilliant. 👍

[@DanielMatchless]

God, that shot of Hector removing his helmet will always piss me off. Such a high budget film and they can't give a main character an actual metal helmet for a closeup shot of him removing it during his climactic appearance in the film. The fucking helmet flexes so blatantly, like the rubber it clearly is, and it drives me insane. It's one thing to have hilariously obvious rubber armor in Sci-fi miniseries or Star Trek type low budget TV stuff, but here? You couldn't find room in the budget for ONE metal helmet? FOH

[@karma_iswhoIam]

Of course they would never take off their helmets in battle in the first place.

[@Alachas1985]

I always just assumed it had some leather segments and that's what made it flex, but I see your point.

[@indyanatham8958]

I wish we could make more movies like this. Such an older movie yet looks nicer than most released today

[@samuelrodriguez1314]

Good watch. I was a freshman in high school when this movie came out and still think it is the greatest fight scene of all time.

[@GuineaPigEveryday]

The director, Wolfgang Petersen, is seriously underrated, while he's always praised for his film Das Boot, his 90s Hollywood films are the pinnacle of really effective well-done action films, not super complex or layered or deep in a way that critics/awards will recognise, but just damn well made and efficient in storytelling and super clear action choreography. In the Line of Fire, Outbreak, Air Force One, Troy are all films I just wholeheartedly enjoy, and could rewatch in a heartbeat because they're just pure action entertainment, this fight scene is a microcosm of how under appreciated the skill of action directors are, the amount of work and precision it takes to capture a fight, build the tension, the stakes, set the geography of the scene, to communicate important events that affect its outcome, all while having to keep people's attentions and being unable to really take your time without boring people.

[@nash2609]

such a great analysis

[@fromthescreen123]

Thanks :) Glad you enjoyed it!

[@JonathanKeys-f3m]

I always felt that Hector was weakened in the fight by the guilt that he felt for killing patroclus, Achilles cousin who was only a child who pretended to be Achilles to face off against hector. There may have been a chance for victory for ha if his heart was in the fight. Now I believe that Achilles was a better warrior, he seems to be portrayed as such in the film. But you can defeat someone in battle who is better than you, everyone is capable for a moment of being 110 or 120 or 150% of what they are

[@aracelymoran2504]

+@JonathanKeys-f3m Hardly a child, but frown enough to pass for Achilles.

[@Nomadunlimited]

the worry and fear on the faces of hector's family is what intensified these scene even more

[@mjmoran3rd]

"There are no pacts between lions, and men" is one of the coldest lines in movie history.

[@jamesramirez4541]

The smooth camera is much better than the hand-held. The editing is excellent.

[@alisterfolson]

“A good death is its own reward” - The Man of Steel

[@briancolwill3071]

First time here. Liked. Subscribed.

[@fromthescreen123]

Thank you :)

[@Sabamonster]

Thank you so much for this. Your insight into the composition of these scenes as a whole was enlightening; and fascinating to think about. Definitely going to sub.

[@fromthescreen123]

Thanks :) Glad you enjoyed it!

[@emeraldknight2342]

"In Troy (2004), Brad Pitt and Eric Bana did not use stunt doubles for their epic duel. They made a gentleman's agreement to pay for every accidental hit. $50 for each light hit, $100 for each hard blow. Pitt ended up paying Bana $750. Bana didn't owe Pitt anything." "Troy" has been my favorite movie since I was like 16 years old. This scene used to be hard for me to watch because I was so invested in the hero Hector but when I found out about this "Gentleman's Agreement" between Brad Pitt and Eric Bana...man this fight scene became such an admirable peice of cinema 🎥🍿 for me 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🫡.

[@bikeman1x11]

pitt became Achiilles- and was domionant

[@Theodoros_Kolokotronis]

Alexander the Great visited the site of Ancient Troy in 334 B.C., as he embarked on his campaign against the Persian Empire, leading a unified Greek Army (Hellenic League). The visit to Troy held both personal and strategic significance for Alexander. On one hand, it fulfilled his long-held desire to pay tribute to his hero Achilles and connect with the glorious past of Greek mythology. On the other hand, the visit served as a powerful symbolic gesture that showcased his intention to unite the Greek world under his rule and carry on the legacy of the legendary heroes. Upon reaching the Tomb of Achilles, Alexander took a moment to pay his respects and acknowledge the greatness of the legendary warrior. Then, Alexander poured oil over the tomb, a customary practice in ancient Greek funerary rituals, symbolizing purification and sanctification. He also placed garlands of flowers and foliage on the tomb, signifying honor and respect for the deceased. Next, Alexander and Hephaestion sacrificed animals, likely horses, to honor the spirits of Achilles and Patroclus. This ritual was meant to appease the souls of the dead and seek their favor. Finally, Alexander is believed to have organized athletic games at the site, following the ancient Greek tradition of hosting such competitions in memory of deceased heroes. By paying homage to Achilles, Alexander was reinforcing his connection to the heroic past and legitimizing his claim to lead the Greek world. After Troy and his first victory at the battle of the Granicus, while leading a unified Greek Army (Hellenic League) to avenge the Persian invasions in Greece 150 years prior, Alexander the Great sent 300 suits of full Persian armour (to honor the legendary last stand of the 300 Spartans in Thermopylae) to Athens, as a votive offering to Goddess Athena, to be hung on the Acropolis. He ordered an inscription to be fixed over them; “Alexander, son of Philip and all the Greeks, present this offering from the spoils taken from the barbarians inhabiting Asia". A statue group, known as the Granicus Monument, was erected by Alexander in the sanctuary of Zeus at Dion. This consisted of bronze statues by Lysippus, of Alexander with twenty-five of his companions who had died in the initial cavalry charge, all on horseback (sources: “Anabasis of Alexander” by Arrian and “Life of Alexander” by Plutarch). Along with Achilles, Alexander the Great is a sacred, immortal, legendary figure for us Greeks. Mostly for uniting all Greek City States and Kingdoms and spreading the unique Hellenic culture to the edges of the world. The rightful descendant of legendary Achilles. Eternal Hellas 🔥🇬🇷

[@callmev3531]

0:49, From a narrative standpoint, this film does a fantastic job of playing with perspective in regards to its protagonists and antagonists, in having Achilles, our primary protagonist, be more of a villain (as in a character with not just negative traits, but a primarily detrimental effect on their world and themselves with their presence and actions) with his pride, cynicism and search of indulgence, glory and spite towards his abusive leader while Hector, who is set up as an antagonist for Achilles, is a hero (as in a character with not just positive traits, but a primarily beneficial effect on their world and themselves with their presence and actions) defined not just by honor, but by humility, faithfulness, compassion and love for his family and home. Hector also contrasts with Achilles' confidence and reliance on sheer prowess with his courage and reliance on strategy, one thinking fear, doubt and guilt are beneath him while the other accepts he is fallible and mortal but still tries to do what good he can while he is able. Agamemnon may be the overarching villain, as it is his greed and disregard for life that make him the most detrimental character in the story and seeing him through Achilles' hateful perspective makes him more sympathetic, as by comparison, he has enough honor to value his companion's lives and even has love for his relatives despite his own greedy nature, but it is ultimately those detrimental traits that end up dominating his story. On top of simply being a great retelling of an old Greek myth, it manages to hone in on what makes Greek myths a great model for storytelling in general.

[@THEDonnyB]

One detail when Hector lands a blow I have always appreciated... The look he gives after slashing Achilles is saying "all that for a graze? I landed the first hit and he's still not tired." It really emphasizes the dynamic between Hector and Achilles. One is calm, cool, collected, while the other is frantic, fighting for his life, and despite landing the first blow, knows he will lose when he does.

[@VTsiFanfic]

Agreed. The scratch he lands and the lead up to it he doesn't look much in control. Repeating the same slash 3 times looks more like desperate flailing at that point.

[@thickymcghee7681]

Great analysis.

[@ChefAndyLunique]

Saw this in college with a group of friends who were all just obsessed with this movie.

[@pasqueldomburg8115]

Brilliant break down 👏 thank you

[@fromthescreen123]

Very welcome :)

[@DrewWestPress]

No, the shaky cam ruins the epicness of the battle. 6:51

[@sammonsalve5657]

Cant just replicate skakey cam after it's filmed. While I do agree.l looks better steady. This comparison is dumb with the footage provided.

[@8enable]

Great review

[@jackiehollow6611]

This is one of those films you never want to see end. You want the stories to continue on and on and on.

[@user-tacituscornwall]

I think and equally important part is the backing music, just a simple tapping of drums. It’s like a dance between them both, with each quick beat keeping them in time and rhythm. The only thing that is inevitable is that the beat and the dance must at some point come to an end. It is so simple and yet, no other music can compare

[@onderguler1994]

Brilliant video. How have you only got 640 views on it????

[@fromthescreen123]

@@onderguler1994 thanks :) Glad you enjoyed it! Haha your guess is as good as mine!

[@UnoZocalo]

Algorithm issues.

[@sitandpolitic]

This movie was before people came to respect Brad Pitt as a genuine actor. Absolute legend.

[@Mububban23]

And for once, they used shields well, and for a long part of the duel, before discarding them. The fight is just so good! So many phases, and it's true storytelling, showing their differing characters through movement rather than just dialogue. Still my favourite Hollywood weapons fight scene of all time.

[@spaceo8568]

This was a great sequence.