Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World

It is fairly rare for me to get home from a movie and instantly come on neoseeker wishing to tell them how great it was. No no, I am not going to spoil it. I don't need to tell you an ounce of the story.
I scored tickets to a preview screening through Triple M Freq Club (Melbourne/Australian thing). I got them, basically just cos they were there and they were a prize. I wasnt that keen on seeing it, and had I not got the tickets I would have probably bypassed the whole thing.
However, having just seen the screening, I must say that this was a complete surprise. Russell Crowe's acting is some of the best I have seen, definately academy worthy. Paul Bettany is also fantastic as the ship's surgeon.
The ship designs are recreated fantastically, giving the film an authentic epic feel. The film's characters are often looked deep into as they develop throughout the story. The entire cast perfrom greatly.
Dont be dumb like me. If you are prepared to sit down for two or so hours, then it is definately worth the money. The in depth characters, action sequences and even some of Jack Aubrey (Crowe)'s humour make this film a must see.