Meaning: The quote "Achilles was like a rock star of his day so it made sense to have Brad Pitt playing him" by Wolfgang Petersen, the director of the movie "Troy," reflects the director's perspective on the character of Achilles and the casting choice of Brad Pitt for the role. This quote encapsulates the idea that Achilles, the legendary Greek hero of the Trojan War, possessed a larger-than-life persona and was revered and idolized by the people of his time. By drawing a parallel between Achilles and a modern-day rock star, Petersen highlights the charismatic and iconic nature of the character, emphasizing the need for an actor with star power to portray him on screen.

In the context of the film "Troy," directed by Wolfgang Petersen and released in 2004, the casting of Brad Pitt as Achilles was a decision that garnered significant attention and discussion. The quote suggests that Petersen viewed Achilles as a figure who would have been celebrated and adored in a manner akin to the adulation directed towards contemporary celebrities, particularly rock stars. This comparison not only underscores the magnetic appeal of Achilles but also justifies the choice of Brad Pitt, a renowned and charismatic actor, to embody the legendary hero.

The characterization of Achilles as a "rock star of his day" aligns with the traditional portrayal of the mythological figure in ancient texts such as Homer's "Iliad." In these ancient narratives, Achilles is depicted as a formidable warrior whose prowess in battle is matched only by his exceptional beauty, courage, and arrogance. He is a central figure whose actions and emotions drive the narrative of the epic, and his larger-than-life persona contributes to his enduring status as a legendary hero.

By likening Achilles to a rock star, Petersen not only emphasizes the immense popularity and fame that the character would have commanded in his time but also draws a parallel between the adoration and fanaticism directed towards contemporary celebrities and the reverence accorded to ancient heroes. This comparison serves to bridge the cultural and temporal gap between the world of ancient mythology and the present day, making the character of Achilles more relatable to modern audiences.

The choice of Brad Pitt to portray Achilles in the film "Troy" was a deliberate decision aimed at aligning the portrayal of the character with the larger-than-life image that Petersen envisioned. Brad Pitt, an actor celebrated for his charisma, physical presence, and acting prowess, was seen as a fitting choice to embody the complex and enigmatic persona of Achilles. With his star power and ability to command the screen, Pitt brought a contemporary allure to the role, capturing the essence of a character who was revered as a heroic figure in ancient times.

In conclusion, Wolfgang Petersen's quote "Achilles was like a rock star of his day so it made sense to have Brad Pitt playing him" encapsulates the director's vision of Achilles as a larger-than-life figure and justifies the casting of Brad Pitt in the role. By drawing a parallel between the mythical hero and modern-day celebrities, Petersen underscores the enduring appeal and iconic status of Achilles while also rationalizing the selection of a charismatic actor like Brad Pitt to bring the legendary character to life on the big screen.