The movie bombed because it wasn't about a subject that an American could or should relate to.
This guy reigned 2400 yrs. ago. And that matters now, why?
Most people today don't even know who we fought in WW2, let alone go see a biopic about an historical figure from 300 BC.
The only folks worth watching in the film were the elephants.
So far, they have done more to help the tsunami victims than most of Hollywood has.
I think you are wrong that people won't go to movies set in older times.
Remember Troy earlier this year, which I saw and loved.
$133,378,256 domestic.
Compare this with the much-hyped Alexander, which could only muster 30 million.
People did not go see the movie because it STUNK and made homosexuality the focus.
BTW, as a history major, I have to cringe at your comment "This guy reigned 2400 years ago. And that matters now, why?"
Remember: THOSE WHO DO NOT KNOW HISTORY ARE DOOMED TO REPEAT IT.