Asterix at the Olympic Games

Synopsis

Asterix at the Olympic Games is a 2008 French adventure comedy film loosely based on the well-loved comic series by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo. The story follows the indomitable Gauls, Asterix and Obelix, who journey to ancient Olympia to compete in the Olympic Games. Their mission is to confront the corrupt Roman ruler Brutus and prevent him from winning by cheating, thus safeguarding their village's freedom and honour. Packed with humor, action, and vibrant characters — including the iconic fighter Asterix, the strong Obelix, and a cast of quirky companions — the film combines slapstick comedy with epic sports spectacle. Gérard Depardieu reprises his role as Obelix, lending his trademark charisma to this lively and colorful tale set in a mythical ancient world.

Cast

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  Gérard Depardieu

  Obélix

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  Clovis Cornillac

  Astérix

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  José Garcia

  Couverdepus

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  Franck Dubosc

  Assurancetourix

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  Stéphane Rousseau

  Alafolix

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  Jean-Pierre Cassel

  Panoramix

Reviews

Asterix at the Olympic Games received mixed to negative reviews from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, it holds a modest rating of 5.2/10, reflecting a mixed reception from viewers. Rotten Tomatoes does not have an aggregated critics' score, but audience reactions tend to be polarizing, with some fans praising its playful humor and faithful character portrayals, while others criticize it for a convoluted plot and uneven pacing. Critics from The Guardian described the film as "a visually impressive but narratively muddled adaptation", noting that it struggles with balancing its comedic elements and grand scale. Similarly, Variety pointed out that while Gérard Depardieu’s performance as Obelix remains a highlight, the film’s reliance on slapstick humor and product placements detracts from its charm. Metacritic does not have a comprehensive score for this film, but reviews commonly mention that despite the colorful costumes and action sequences, the movie fails to capture the witty spirit of the original comics fully. Overall, fans of the beloved comic series might appreciate the nostalgic elements and star power, but viewers seeking a tight, critically acclaimed film might find it disappointing.