A big-budget summer epic with money to burn and a scale worthy of its golden Hollywood predecessors, Ridley Scott's
Gladiator is a rousing, grisly, action-packed epic that takes moviemaking back to the Roman Empire via computer-generated visual effects. While not as fluid as the computer work done for, say,
Titanic, it's an impressive achievement that will leave you marveling at the glory that was Rome, when you're not marveling at the glory that is Russell Crowe. Starring as the heroic general Maximus, Crowe firmly cements his star status both in terms of screen presence and acting chops, carrying the film on his decidedly non-computer-generated shoulders as he goes from brave general to wounded fugitive to stoic slave to gladiator hero.
Gladiator's plot is a whirlwind of faux-Shakespearean machinations of death, betrayal, power plays, and secret identities (with lots of faux-Shakespearean dialogue ladled on to keep the proceedings appropriately "classical"), but it's all briskly shot, edited, and paced with a contemporary sensibility. Even the action scenes, somewhat muted but graphic in terms of implied violence and liberal bloodletting, are shot with a veracity that brings to mind--believe it or not--
Saving Private Ryan, even if everyone is wearing a toga. As Crowe's nemesis, the evil emperor Commodus, Joaquin Phoenix chews scenery with authority, whether he's damning Maximus's popularity with the Roman mobs or lusting after his sister Lucilla (beautiful but distant Connie Nielsen); Oliver Reed, in his last role, hits the perfect notes of camp and
gravitas as the slave owner who rescues Maximus from death and turns him into a coliseum star. Director Scott's visual flair is abundantly in evidence, with breathtaking shots and beautiful (albeit digital) landscapes, but it's Crowe's star power that will keep you in thrall--he's a true gladiator, worthy of his legendary status. Hail the conquering hero!
--Mark Englehart
1 A Braveheart wanna-be. Shame on you, Scottmus.
I have been of the opinion that Ridley Scott is an opportunist with no originality. While Braveheart itself fabricates history, it is not without some enthusiastic immitators. Ridley Scott evidently took the Braveheart forumla to heart, and his attempt to clone it is the flick Gladiator.
I realize it's a matter of personal taste, but the choice of Crowe as the leading character is a poor one. There's always something filthy and unseemly that comes through Crowe. I can't put my finger on it, but it's a persistent problem with Crowe as far as I am concerned.
Now back to Scott. His latest venture, Kingdom of Heaven, again follows the Braveheart formula, and exploits the hatred towards Islam in the West. An opportunist he is.
2 A True Epic...
I remember first watching this movie in the cinema, because at that time there were no other movies showing that my friends and I have not watched. What followed was an amazing cinematic experience like no other, my eyes were glued on the screen at all times and I was literally on the edge of my seat. "This is the story that would resonate in the years to come, the "Spartacus" and "Ben-Hur" of our time", I was thinking to myself...and true enough, it took home 5 Academy Awards.
Maximus is a grizzled war veteran in the eyes of his soldiers and the Emperor, Marcus Aurelius...but what he wants more than anything else is to go home to his wife and child and tend to his crops. After leading the Roman army to victory in one of the most breath-taking battle scenes I have seen in movie history, Marcus Aurelius summons Maximus to his camp, and asks him to take over administration of Rome until he sees fit to pass governance to the senators. Before Marcus Aurelius announces his decision, his son, a very upset Commodus kills the Emperor and takes his father's place. Commodus asks Maximus to swear loyalty to him, he doesn't and what follows is a story that is emotional, powerful and compelling at the same time.
Strengthening the story in every way possible is a very talented cast, led by none other than Russell "the Oscar" Crowe. It seems that every movie he does earns him an Oscar nomination and in this movie, he deservedly won the award. Casting Crowe at that time was a brilliant decision by the film's director, Ridley Scott because he was relatively unknown, so we don't see Crowe as Maximus...we just see Maximus. His portrayal of the man was exceptional, every tear, every stare, every move speaks volumes. This was a man tormented about his past, unhappy about his present and doubtful about his future. This was one of the best performances I have seen in a long time. Of course, the rest of the cast are no less impressive. Joaquin Phoenix, as Commodus gave a fine performance as someone who is evil, not because he chooses to be, but because of the way he had been raised. He has felt vulnerable and not loved his whole life. It's easy to read his mind, "Why do these people who hate me be treated any nicer?" With a supporting cast that includes Connie Nielsen, Oliver Reed and Richard Harris, you expect nothing but the best, and they do deliver in spades.
The directing of the movie was also flawless. Ridley Scott knows what he's doing, he has a good idea what the audience is expecting and he makes the right decisions. Where other directors have tried and failed (Troy and Alexander comes to mind), Scott weaves a story that by the end of the movie, every person who is watching the movie, would want the hero to win..but will he? The anticipation that Scott evokes is what makes this movie special. The action sequences in this movie is also no walk in the park. They are shot with extreme precision, that when you watch it...every strike, every blow seems to be happening right in front of you. With a good home theater set, I am sure you will understand what I mean.
But ultimately, no home theater set is needed for you to really appreciate this movie, the powerful storytelling and superb acting is the driving force behind this movie and I for one, am all for that. If you have not watched this movie, I'm afraid you're missing out something special as movies like this, they come once a blue moon. Hope my review was helpful enough to spark some interest in getting this movie, you won't regret it!
3 way better than "Troy"
i saw "troy" in the theaters four times with my friend. i thought it was the greatest movie. then i rented gladiator and i changed my mind about troy. gladiator is an awesome movie with wonderful acting and good action sequences. troy defienctly doesn't compare to gladiator. i recommend gladiator over troy anyday.
4 Best Movie of all Time?
I'm trying to think of another movie that I could put on the same list as GLADIATOR. Maybe Amadeus. As with Amadeus, Gladiator's sound track has no equal. When you take films like these and add scores that have no equals you get movies that stand alone on top of a small list. Gladiator is the world's GREATEST movie ever made!
5 Awsome movie!
Gladiator is truly a spectacular movie. Think that the greatest aspect of it was how "real" it was. The movie itself really drew you into it, making you feel like you were there. The troubles the main characters faced really make you sympathize, and therefore make you care about the outcome. I think something that contributes to this was great acting; the actors did an excellent job portraying their characters.
I would like to say that you have to like the general genre of the film to like the movie. It's a very impressive film that you will 'really get into'.
Also, it is one of the few R-rated films that I think would be acceptable to younger audiences (there's a bit of gore, but that's about it).
6 A slave against an emperor...
Winner of five Academy Awards including Best Picture, and nominated for an additional seven, Gladiator is one of the best produced and directed films of its time. Reminiscent of Mel Gibson's Braveheart, it creates a world so seemingly realistic, that you find yourself drawn backward in time to the glory days of Rome. The musical score, the costumes, and the sets form a synergy that, with lifelike animation, serves to replicate life in early millennial Rome.
The opening scene of Gladiator is simply awe-inspiring as the Roman legions advance on a band of rebels resisting the empire from the outskirts of Gaul. When the commanders signal the order for attack, the fury of hell is unleashed as flaming arrows and iron bars batter the unified front of the rebel fighters. The scene invokes more memories of Desert Storm than an ancient battlefield, and it visually illustrates the overwhelming power that was once the Roman Empire.
The leader of this battle is Maximus (Russell Crowe), a Roman general loved by his men and admired throughout the empire for his impeccable character. When the aging Emperor Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris) secretly reveals his plan to appoint Maximus caretaker of Rome upon his death - willing him the task of restoring the Senate and eliminating the dictatorial rule of the Caesars, it sparks the ire of his overly ambitious son Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix). When Commodus murders his father, he asks Maximus to provide his allegiance to the newest emperor of Rome. But Maximus refuses, and Commodus orders his death.
A magnificent fighter in his own right, and enjoying the aid of friends in the legion, Maximus manages to escape his death sentence. Traveling thousands of miles to his home only to find his wife and son murdered, a broken Maximus is taken prisoner and sold as a slave to a man named Proximo (Oliver Reed). The older man hopes to profit from his slaves by training them to become gladiators.
At this point, the true action of the movie takes hold, as Maximus (ideal soldier of the Roman Empire) runs roughshod over his opponents in the gladiatorial arena. With every conceivable weapon of the time deployed against him, and sometimes facing down a number of opponents simultaneously, Maximus leaves the ring time and time again as a triumphant victor.
Having enriched his owner, Maximus eventually makes his way back to Rome where he plans to fight as a gladiator in the greatest arena of all - the Coliseum. Meanwhile, Lucilla (sister of Commodus and former lover of Maximus) works as a power broker behind the scenes, attempting to bring the Senate and the army together in order to remove Commodus and restore the power of the Republic. When Maximus defies Emperor Commodus in front of a packed house at the Coliseum, he's forced to remove his mask and announce his true identity to the Roman people. The revelation leads to an unprecedented gladiatorial contest - Maximus versus a sitting Roman Emperor, with the victor acquiring total power. But the sleazy Commodus has a few tricks up his sleeve, and he doesn't plan to give in easily to arch enemy...
As a work of entertainment, Gladiator is second to none. The action sequences provide endless thrills, and the dialogue between the characters is wrought with political intrigue, lust for power, and conflicting realities. Russell Crowe is superb in his role as the hero Maximus. Noble in his intentions and powerful as a leader, Maximus represents the ideal of honor and chivalry. One of those rare films that forces the audience to root for its characters, Gladiator is a definite must-see film. If you liked the movies Braveheart or The Patriot, then you'll love Gladiator...
The DVD Report
7 People Should Know When They Are Conquered
Since there are plenty of reviews, I will keep this short. As everyone notes, this an epic tale second to none, and will make you a fan of Russell Crowe.
Make sure you buy the two disc set, with the 5.1 DTS ES soundtrack - It is worth the purchase. The mix is exceptional and one of the best on the market. The single disc version does not have the DTS ES 5.1 soundtrack, and I expect the sound pales in comparison. I have listened to the 6.1 mix on numerous occasions through a Yamaha 1400 system with 6.1 sound and I am always amazed at the exceptional sound.
I highly recommend the 2 disc set with the DTS 5.1 ES - 6.1 mix.
8 The first movie that makes me cry
Gladiator is the kind of movie upon which Hollywood once built its reputation but rarely produces anymore: the spectacle. Filled with larger-than-life characters, gorgeous scenery, impressive set design, and epic storytelling, Gladiator is designed not just to entertain, but to enthrall. It draws audiences in and immerses them in a reality that is not their own. A boisterous reaction is expected every time the protagonist defies the odds and wins a conflict, or changes the tide of battle in his favor. This is filmmaking on a grand scale.
Gladiator is set in 180 AD, and uses actual historical personages and events for background. The events that transpire in the film are largely fictional, but they blend in well with the known facts. The Roman Empire is in full blossom, having survived the excesses of one corrupt emperor after the next. The latest Caesar, Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris), is a scholar who has taken to the battlefield to repel a barbarian threat from Germania. To that end, he has invaded, relying upon the leadership and valor of his best general, Maximus (Russell Crowe), to win the day. Maximus does not disappoint, and the Emperor privately decides to name him a his successor - a decision that does not sit well with Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), Marcus' son. In a fit of rage and grief, he kills his father, then has Maximus taken away to be executed. The general, however, escapes death, slaying his would-be killers, then races home to protect his wife and son. But he is too late - by the time he arrives, they are both dead, and he is soon taken prisoner by slave-traders. Along with his new friend Juba (Djimon Hounsou), he is bought by Proximo (Oliver Reed), an owner and trainer of Gladiators. Recognizing Maximus' potential, Proximo grooms him for a trip to Rome's Coliseum.
Gladiator weds the heroic scope of movies like Ben-Hur, Spartacus, Braveheart, and Rob Roy with the serpentine political treachery of I, Claudius, a connection that is italicized by the presence of Claudius lead, Derek Jacobi, in the supporting role of a Roman Senator. The film never fails to be involving and entertaining, and there are plenty of moments designed to stir the adrenaline. Additionally, the screenplay manages to avoid the trap of predictability. The villains are at least as smart as the heroes, and far more ruthless.
Perhaps Scott's, director of the movie, greatest achievement with Gladiator is neither keeping the pacing of a 2 1/2 hour movie tight nor choreographing a spectacular battle scene, but creating a second-century Rome that is entirely credible and stunning in its detail. Ancient Rome is one of the most romanticized civilizations in the history of humanity, and rarely has it been brought to life with the grandeur of this film. The Coliseum, for example, has been resurrected to its full glory (largely through the use of digital technology). Gladiator consistently looks good, although, during some of the fights, rapid cutting creates a sense of disorientation and confusion.
Like many of the great Hollywood historical epics, Gladiator is the story of the triumph of a heroic figure over seemingly-insurmountable odds. In this case, he is a slave taking on the most powerful man in the world - the Emperor of Rome. The ending may be a unlikely (although, from Commodus' point-of-view, it could be a shrewd move if handled properly), but it is as exhilarating and satisfying as the final confrontation between Liam Neeson and Tim Roth in Rob Roy. As spectacles go, Gladiator has a great deal to recommend it. And, while the film has the ingredients to win over most audiences, it remains to be seen whether the marketing campaign and positive word-of-mouth will generate enough ticket sales for this cinematic combatant to remain strong when the field of early summer challengers becomes more difficult.
9 Gladiator- A Stunning Epic Experience
Gladiator was released back in May of 2000 and quickly became a box-office smash and was certainly one of the biggest films of the summer. I remember how thrilled I was while viewing it at the cinema. It soon earned a lot of oscar nominations and took home 5 Academy Awards including Best Picutre and Best Actor, unfortunately Director Ridley Scott did not take home an oscar because he lost to Steven Soderbergh for "Traffic."
Russell Crowe stars as the general Maximus in this exciting epic. Joaquin Phoenix delivers a superb performance as the evil emperor Commodus. Connie Nielson, Djimon Honsou, Oliver Reed, Derek Jacobi and Richard Harris all deliver fine performances too in supporting roles. This film is a grand epic, featuring wonderful and exciting fight sequences, beautiful sets and locations and of course great direction.
Many comparisons have made to "Braveheart," and well they don't seem entirely just, I love Braveheart and coincidentally it also won 5 Academy Awards, but I feel they are both excellent films and two stand-out epics. THey are certainly two of the best epics that have come out in the last 10 years. Also many comparisons have made between this film, "Gladiator" and "Troy."
While I did enjoy "Troy," and thought it was a tremendously entertaining film, I feel that "Gladiator" was a more substantial film with a better script and better acting. In terms of action, well that's hard to say. Both deliver excellent action sequences, but Troy's action sequences are bigger, considering some of the action sequences are major battles.
Overall this film is a beautiful movie, with an excellent soundtrack by Hans Zimmer and Lisa Gerrard and is certainly much better than Troy's soundtrack by James Horner, though that isn't a terrible soundtrack. This is a must-own film or at least rent it.
10 You'll be inspired to become a better man
I know this film came out almost five years ago, but I just watched it again last weekend and I can't resist logging onto Amazon and telling you how inspiring this story is.
I'll skip talking about what a great actor Russel is (and he truly is) and jump right to the heart of the story. Ridley Scott has created for us a tale of a man who was born to be a warrior but who at heart is a gentle, sad, kind hearted man who wants nothing more in life then to honor his wife and son, and the depths to which he searches his soul to reach that goal left me more aware of my own place in life and how I must strive harder to lead a more fulfilling existence.
I don't see this as an action film. Okay, I know that it IS of course, an action film, but to be honest the fight scenes are few and far between. Yes, there is some blood and gore. No, it is not excessive. Yes, people die. No, it is not glamorized.
The real story takes place out of the Coliseum and comes to life in the dialog: Maximus (Crow) with his soldiers and fellow gladiators, Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix) with his sister, Commodus with the Senators, Maximus with the child Lucious. The dialog is remarkably well written, and the acting is stunning. THIS is where the real story takes place.
And to punch-down what was already a timeless masterpiece, the cinematography, the special effects and the music are humbling in their perfection. Normally these are aspects of a movie I don't pickup on until the second or third time watching it, but in Gladiator ever element is so rich and beautiful that you can't help but be impressed with all of it from the very first time you watch it.
This film is not for everyone. Despite how inspiring it is I don't think I would like my own son watch it until he is well, well into his teenage years. But when he's ready, we will certainly enjoy it together.
11 ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED!
Russel Crowe was made for this movie!
The acting all around was great. The
story was just as good. The sound on
this disc, will make you happy too!
You won't want to miss this one!
12 Gladiator & modern military socialism - a great film !
The movie "Galdiator" stars Russell Crowe. I enjoyed the film.
There is also the book "Gladiator" by Professor Martin Winkler that examines the movie at length and it is also available through Amazon.
One favorable surprise is that neither the movie nor the book mention any straight-arm salute, misnamed the "Roman salute." That is because there is no evidence or text that show a straight-armed salute as an ancient Roman salute. That is probably because, before the movie was made and before the book followed it, the historian Rex Curry had already debunked the "Roman salute" myth and showed that the salute (and the of the National Socialist German Workers' Party or "Nazis") originated from the military salute in the USA, and from the original flag pledge (as written by a socialist), and not from ancient Rome.
The Roman salute myth might have developed from fictional Roman scenes in these films: the American "Ben-Hur" (1907), the Italian "Nerone" (1908), "Spartaco" (1914), and "Cabiria" (1914). You can buy some of those films and see for yourself the evolution of the original pledge salute, the salute later adopted by German National Socialists. The original pledge of allegiance predated all of the movies and used a straight-armed salute (from 1892 as written by Francis Bellamy). The Roman salute myth might have sprung also from the fact that Francis Bellamy (the author of the pledge of allegiance and of its original straight-arm salute) was from the city of Rome (in the state of New York, not in Italy) and people and things from the city in New York state were referred to as "Roman" and still are today. Francis Bellamy (the person who created/popularized the misnamed "Roman salute") admired ancient Rome and its militarism, grew up the city of Rome in New York (where he and his neighbors were known as "Romans,") and was educated in the "Rome Academy" there.
The history of the Pledge would shock every libertarian mind. The "Roman salute" myth is used in the same way that the word "Nazi" is used. To cover-up for socialism. To cover up the fact that government inside the U.S. promoted socialized schools, military socialism within government schools, the creation of industrial armies, and daily robotic pledges of allegiance in military formation with the infamous straight-arm salute (the Nazi salute) and it happened in the USA three decades before the Nazis. Francis Bellamy was the USA's Leni Riefenstahl. That is why he and his famous cousin, Edward Bellamy (the author), are known as the first American Nazis.
The book "Gladiator" also details parallels between the movie "Gladiator" and the National Socialist German Workers' Party. However the book's tired stereotypes perpetuate the myth that the National Socialist German Workers' Party slaughtered the most people. Here is one sample quote "The Fascist and Nazi movements exploited this fear of the uncontrolled masses to impose their own leaders." The book never indicts the Socialist and Communist movements and their leaders. The socialist Wholecaust (of which the Holocaust was a part) involved the socialist trio of atrocities: 62 million killed by the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics; 35 million by the Peoples' Republic of China; and 21 million by the National Socialist German Workers' Party.
But it was a very entertaining film in all other respects.
13 "Strength and Honor"
There isn't a better first five minutes on any DVD to test your surround sound home theater than this DVD. Give it as a gift to anyone who has a home theater; they will always invite you back to their home. This is a guy's movie; an epic film of battle scenes, heroism, courage, loyalty and honor. It is in the category of Top Gun for a film to be watched over and over.
14 That's it?
My buddy Beau went to see this movie a week after it opened. We had heard a lot of hype about the "film" and we were very excited about the potential orgiastic cinema experience that lay ahead! Needless to say this is the cinematic equivalent of blue-balls. Never before have I left a theater with a feeling of such utter disapointment. I am still waiting to see the version that was screened for members of the academy, because the version I saw was about as Oscar-worthy as "White Chicks". If you are looking for a truly great "gladiator" movie, buy the special edition of Conan the Barbarian. The commentary alone is worth the price, trust me.
15 A+ for Crowe and Phoenix.Greater political drama than action
`Gladiator', directed by Ridley Scott and starring Russell Crowe succeeds, like `Spartacus' and unlike `Troy' because it is less about action and violence than it is about politics and righting a wrong. In fact, except for the opening battle scene with the Russell Crowe improvised line, `On my signal, unleash Hell', the combat direction and filming is not as well done as Brad Pitt's battle scenes in Troy. This is not to say `Gladiator' did these poorly. It's just that the real interest is in the political conflict between Commodus, Marcus Aurelius' son, played to the hilt by Jaoquin Phoenix and Crowe's character, the Roman general Maximus.
Regarding the historical action and scenes, I think the film's set designers, costumers, set decorators, and special effects artists got almost everything almost exactly right. In fact, it is a great treat to see talented special effects put to good use on something other than star destroyers, Nazgul, and vampires. The effects lavished on the Coliseum were not just for the sake of impressive size. They added lots of very effective touches such as the relatively recently discovered awnings used to shade the fans in the upper bleachers. Combat, both in pitched battle in Germania and in the arena is very well researched. It was an excellent little touch to see Maximus loose a sword, only to instantly draw a backup sword from his saddle and continue reigning death and distruction on the barbarians. It's amazing how a minor inaccuracy can ruin the effect of some of the very best movies, such as when modern tanks were used in battles between Americans and Germans in North Africa in `Patton'. You would think they could scare up at least a dozen American Sherman tanks and a half dozen German Mk IV's. Similarly, I really began to wonder why Aurilius' daughter seems to be wearing but a single style of earring throughout the whole movie, which covers at least a year of real time.
Note that most of the special effects really succeed better on the small screen than they do on a big theatrical screen. The seams between live action and the effects seem to be a bit less noticeable.
I have been a Russell Crowe fan since I saw him in `LA Confidential' and I doubled my respect for his abilities when I saw his appearance on the Bravo interview show, `Inside the Actor's Studio'. In that one-hour interview, he revealed a greater insight into the craft of acting than the interviews of William H. Macy, Robert Redford, and Robin Williams all rolled into one. If any actor can be said to have inherited the mantle of Marlon Brando, James Dean, and Montgomery Cliff, it must be Crowe. In this interview, he said that the cast and crew began shooting the film with not much more than an outline. This may seem typical on a Jim Carrey or Robin Williams comedy where the producers are reasonable in expecting the great improvisational talents of these actors to carry them over the rough spots, but this seems inconceivable when you are shooting a historical costume drama with a budget of over 100 million dollars. It turns out that some of the most effective lines in the movie were Crowe inventions on the spot. The importance of Crowe to the movie cannot be underestimated, as the intensity drops by several notches when Crowe is not on the screen, and by several more when neither Crowe nor Phoenix are on the screen.
The three veteran character actors, Oliver Reed as the gladiator master, Richard Harris as Emperor Marcus Aurelius, and Derek Jacobi as the Roman senator, Graccus, competently carry out their roles, but none are quite as convincing as the second string actors in the great Masterpiece Theatre series `I, Claudius'. Their performances also cannot hold a candle to the similar roles in `Spartacus' played by Peter Ustinov, Laurence Olivier, and Charles Laughton. I think this is not from lack of talent, I think it is from poor writing. The only other important role, Marcus Aurelius' daughter, is very weakly played and written. Against Crowe and Phoenix, the part really needed a much stronger presence such as Angelina Jolie, Hillary Swank, or Charlize Theron. These quasi-historical characters need both powerful performances and recognizable faces so you instantly know this is an important character, since they will probably be on the screen for less than a quarter of the movie.
All of this is interesting to gab about, but the real meat of the movie, again, is politics. This shows that even in dictatorships, even those backed up by hereditary legitimacy, having the backing of the nobility and the army was required to carry out your agenda. As far as I have been able to determine from my reading of history, much of this story is fictional, based on the real Emperor Marcus Aurelius, his campaign against the Teutons, his death, and the succession of his son, Comedus. I can find no trace of the character Maximus. Crowe's description of the genesis of the character in his interview convinces me that he is pure invention, which the writers were to name `Narcissus'. Crowe talked them out of that one. But that is neither here nor there. The drama is based on the fact that as a gladiator, Maximus gains the favor of the crowd by his victories in the arena, and Comedus cannot dispatch him except in a public venue.
I must say that the music written for the movie, especially for the dream sequences when Maximus anticipates returning to his family in Elysium (heaven of Roman religion), is especially effective, even if the tunes and the vocals have a very strong Gaelic sound to them. The dream melodies would fit quite nicely into the elven scenes of `Lord of the Rings' as they do in ancient Rome.
`Gladiator' may not endure as a classic like `Spartacus', but Crowe's performance alone is worth the price of admission.
16 Absolutely Wonderful
First off, I just have to say that this is a fabulous movie in every possible way: the screenplay, the acting, the action, and even the soundtrack are all top notch. It really doesn't get much better than this! I also want to respond to the review titled "pure hollywood" by king wolf, where the reviewer criticizes the scene where Maximus and Commodus battle in the Colosseum. This scene actually has historical significance! Commodus, whose character is fairly strictly based on the Roman emperor of the same name, did battle gladiators in the Colosseum as a way of showing off for the people of Rome. Although he wasn't killed this way, he was assassinated by an athlete! So, king wolf, if you were slack-jawed during that scene, it was for the wrong reason.
17 pure hollywood
The script for this thing is so bad it is almost beyond words. Pure Hollywood -- first, a transparent attempt to appeal to every demographic via tokenism; with utter contempt for history or common sense, the lead character's best pal is an African. And everybody in the flick has a British accent.
But get this: at the climax of the film, a Roman emperor goes down into the floor of the stadium and engages in single combat with the Crowe character to decide the destiny of Rome. I sat slack-jawed at this scene, in absolute awe at the level of tasteless stupidity of the writer, the director, the actors, the producers, the reviewers and any member of any audience anywhere who could take this seriously.
But not only did this atrocity against art get made, it won lots of awards. That tells you all you need to know about the movie industry: greedy fools pump cash out of complete morons. Go read a book instead, if your I.Q. is larger than your shoe size.
18 Ridley Scott selfishly deleted his girlfriend's scenes
You see less of Gianina Facio in this DVD than in theatre. Railly Scott selfishly deleted his girlfriend's scenes. The horribly murdered wife and son were an ever-lasting wound in the Roman general's mind. Now Facio's scenes were cut, you can hardly see the drives in Maximus' revenge.
19 Makes you believe
Is this simply a story of revenge? Is it just sword fighting and killing?
I've seen this film many times and it's never the action or the gore that moves me; it is always the story. It is always the emotional component that shines through.
A close friend of mine is an atheist. He doesn't believe in God, Heaven, Hell, or an afterlife. Nothing. He confided in me that the ending of this film always makes him weep. Knowing what I know about his beliefs, I asked him why. He twisted and turned and tried to get out of answering the question, but I kept after him. Eventually I let it go, but I never stopped thinking about it.
In my opinion, what my friend never wanted to admit to is this: In the end, this movie made him believe.
James Green, author of "If There's One Thing I've Learned."
20 Excellent!
This is without a doubt one of Scott's best films. Crowe is a born star, and the cinematography is outstanding. The only historical film I enjoyed more than this is Braveheart.
21 The Funniest Comedy I've seen in Years!!!!
A delightful, care free romp through olden times. I laughed out loud several times. Definetly one for the whole family. A must see comedy! F
22 Can't say enough good stuff about this film!!!
This film is amazing!!! If you haven't seen I would HIGHLY recommend this one!!! It is one of my all time favorite films!! The acting, filmaking, music, etc. is so stunning!!! Best of all it has a phenomenal storyline/plot!!!! It is so good!! I would definitely buy this one! It is one of those movie you want to own and see again and again!!!! Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, and Connie Nielsen do amazing jobs!!! All the sets and filmaking and music is phenomenal!!! Hans Zimmer does an amazing job bringing a Roman sounding score to the screen! Ridely Scott did a fantastic directing job with this movie!!!!
This movie is a must-see!!!
23 The spectacle that it should be
I hadn't seen this movie when it came out in theaters (yes, I know, that was me, the one single person who actually didn't go see it). Finally got around to renting the double-disc dvd and am blown away by it. Much has already been said in praise (rightly so), of Ridley's direction, (superb, no one does it better), the effects (unbelievably good looking, in all respects; they may have not built Rome in a day, but came pretty damn close); the lighting, the score, the action/battle/coliseum scenes, the costuming, all of it magnificent and appropriately sweeping and grandiose. For me, however, its' the acting that makes the movie. Russell Crowe as Maximus is terrific, (particularly in the more sensitive aspects of his character, as when he dreams of home and family); and everyone else, including Richard Harris in his final role, fantastic; even the child actor, Spencer Clark, as heir to the throne Lucius, does a nice job in tunic and English accent. For me, though, the scene stealer was Joaquin Phoenix as the arrogant, jealous, incestuous, chilling, pathetic, wholly mad Emperor Commodus. We can see his health and grip on sanity decline as the movie progresses; his pallor becomes more and more pasty, his eyes become more and more sunken with dark circles beneath as his hold on Rome slips, and his paranoia and irrationality grow. The infamous "Busy bees/AM I NOT MERCIFUL????!!!!" scene really sends shivers!
I also wanted to comment on the extras included in the double disc set on the dvds. There are some great features on this. My favorites are the behind-the-scenes specials, detailing the special effects, the fight choreography, the architecture, the history of the gladiator games, etc. There are interviews with many of the creative folks involved, including with most of the actors, and they are all delighted to be doing what they doing, most of them playing around and joking in the interviews. (Russell Crowe laughs about being so close to live tigers in some of the arena scenes, and then being told he shouldn't play a "girlie-game" like soccer because of the risk involved; Joaquin Phoenix told of riding into the coliseum via chariot, as Ceaser Commodos, waving to the crowd in a "regal" manner, all the while thinking "Who am I kidding, I'm from Florida".) It's little insights like that which makes it that much more interesting, at least for me.
My favorite part of the bonus material is a written movie journal by the young actor Spencer Clark; the child really is very bright and articulate and I was impressed with his descriptions of the filming process and life as a child actor. He's really quite observant and insightful and made friends with everyone on the set. His reactions to what was going on around him, the enormity of it all, with the same kind of excitement and fascination that us laymen probably would. I liked his behind the scene pictures too, including of Crowe and family and "mates" at a cricket match/barbecue, and teaching Spencer some naughty limericks. (Spencer got him back later with some of his own.) He teased Phoenix about his costume being a "dress", and also commented on a scene he filmed with Phoenix and himself where a sword Phoenix as Commodus was leaning on slipped, and Phoenix was professional enough to continue with the scene with a straight face and saved the take. He was so into the character, so intense, that that little mistake made it into the movie and it seemed "right", somehow. These kinds of things can't be scripted, they happen by accident and can either be a ruined take or add a tiny nuance to the character. Spencer Clark was very impressed with Joaquin, and so was I (even more so!) upon learning this little tidbit.
The dvd earns the five stars I've given it. Wow, is all I can add.
Watch the movie, enjoy the extras. This is a good one, a rare one. Highly recommended.
24 Crowe's magnetism lights up an empire
The first time i saw this film, I didn't think much of it, although i thought Crowe did a decent job (I'd seen Crowe in LA Confidential and The Insider and those are his groundbreaking great performances). The special effects really bothered me at the time, and I thought the Oscar was a bit much.
I've just seen it again and love it. I better appreciate the performances of the rest of the cast. Phoenix is a bit of a scene chewer, but that's not necessarily a bad thing for a spectacle. I still think this performance was a cakewalk for Crowe, but he can act circles around most current actors (Day Lewis and a few others excepted). The performance i most appreciated this time around was Connie Nielson's. Very few people seem to notice how really fine it was.
just one problem in plot: why would Marcus Aurelius, a brilliant, insightful ruler who knows his son all too well, tell him (Commodus) that he (Marcus A) is not going to make him Caesar, before he has publicly secured Maximus' role as Rome's protector? He knows how unprincipled, unstable his son is. So why push his buttons? Surely, once Commodus knew of his father's intent, the people He, M.A. most loved, would be in danger. It's a huge logic gaffe. However, without that gaffe, i guess you wouldn't have this story.
I had no problems with the so-called historical inaccurracies. First of all, how do we know how accurate any history is, let alone that of one 2,000 years old? With all the technology we have at hand now, we don't even know what current history is. Secondly, this is NOT a documentary. It's a hollywood spectacle.
25 EXCELLENT!
Definitely a great epic movie, Gladiator, brings to the screen the story of the Roman general Maximus, as he seeks revenge against the Roman emperor for the killing of his family and the injustices that have been done against him.
The story starts with an AMAZING battle against the barbarians in Germania, in which the Roman legions are victorious.
Maximus' quest takes us from Rome to North Africa and back all the while providing an extraordinary plot along with some great scenery.
The film combines drama, action and adventure making it one of the best of its kind, thus, resurrecting interest in historical adventures after a long dormant period.
Needless to say, Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen and the rest of the cast have truly outdone themselves with their performances, which are outstanding to say the least, especially Joaquin Phoenix's character who as Emperor Commodus, steals the show!
The setting, the special effects, the music and the costumes are all wonderful!
Arenas, Battles, and swordfights are all about.
In short, it is a movie worth watching!
26 A really great movie...
I thought this was a really great movie. The fighting scenes were really great as well as the story & acting. If you liked Bravehart & movies like that I think you'd really enjoy this movie. I thought this would be one of those movies where I'd hate the ending but it was played out really well & I actually liked it. I think this would be a good movie for anybody.
27 Most Entertaining Movie Ever Made
I absolutely love this film. It has all the great things one would expect in a movie. Great story, characters, acting, visual effects, cinematography, music etc etc. I must have seen it 20 times at least and it just keeps getting better. An outstanding and flawless movie from a great director. I can't think of a movie that I enjoyed more than this and I've probably seen more than a thousand or two. Give me everything in one package and I'm happy. Russell Crowe was superb! If you loved Braveheart, you'll like this as well.
28 Maximum Battles
Although I wouldn't say this is a "good" movie or even a "classic" like the muddled brain dead teens who claim it is the best piece of cinema in the world, I would call it entertaining and nothing more. The film was created to make money, not to stimulate our intellect and I understand that and in the end I said to myself, i could see this again, only for the ability of Crowe to convey to us the power of loss and imprisonment and especially for the stunning battles sequences that are exciting. The plot is unbelievable, and the special effects even worse and even the editing is loose and discordant but again, Crowe's presence and the fights are terrific so don't go to the theater thinking this is Spartacus.
29 Mad Maximus
Let's start by saying that "Gladiator" is the first great film of the new millenium and maybe the best film of the decade, so far, period. There are not enough superlatives to describe how great this film is. Kudos all around to director Ridley Scott, his superb technicians, and the excellent ensemble cast lead by the break-out actor of the new century, Russell Crowe. This film has passion, it has spectacle. It is simply breathtaking. "Gladiator" is a throwback to the epics that were made years ago before the costs made them prohibitive. Thanks to CGI, the illusion of being in the Arena in ancient Rome was made possible. What makes these effects more special is that similar technologies were utilized to evoke the classical period for the so-so "Troy" and the lousy "Alexander". CGI is okay but you have to have a decent movie, as "Gladiator" proved. In this film the effects are in the service of a great story and some great acting. Enough has been said about how good Russell Crowe is as Maximus, the Roman general left for dead who re-emerges in the Arena as the people's champion. He won the Oscar for it after all. Let's go down the list of all the great performances in this film: Richard Harris, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Neilsen, David Hemmings, Dijmon Hounsou. Last, but not least, I'd like to cite Oliver Reed as Proximo, the world-weary exhibitor. Reed was a great character actor whose life was unfortunately cut short by his taste for high-living. This film is a fitting epitaph for his career. Though this DVD package is some four years old it's still one of the more impressive on the market. It contains some good extra material on the technical attributes of the film as well as an extraordinary documentary about the real-life gladiators of ancient times.
30 Impressive!
Germania
March, AD 180:
Marcus Aurelius' eighteen-year military efforts against eastern and northern tribes have drawn to a close. The Stoic emperor (who in much of the West has come to symbolize the Golden Age of ancient Rome) is passing on, to have the throne occupied by his only living son, Commodus. Marcus actually had little choice in this matter: Either make Commodus the new emperor, or have him executed.
It seems unlikely that the son would have murdered his father, as Commodus was Marcus' named successor, and was already officially a joint emperor.
Once in power as the only rulng Caesar, Commodus led a generally shameless regime. His sister Lucilla did conspire with a few senators to have him assassinated, and when the plot failed, he had the senators executed and his sister banished and then executed. From there, his reign was characterized more or less by viciousness, caprice, and insanity. He renamed Rome the 'Colonia Commodiana' (Colony of Commodus), envisioned himself to be the Greek god Hercules, and entered the arena as a gladiator to fight man and beast. His unpopularity appears to have grown until, when he made known that he intended to instate himself as consul on New Year's Day, 193, several of his advisors conspired to have him murdered. Commodus was strangled by a professional wrestler on the night of 31 December 192. Civil war followed his death.
Much of Ridley Scott's Roman-era epic GLADIATOR wanders into fictional territory, despite the rootedness of a few individuals in actual history. Of course, this is nothing new. From "Spartacus" to "Shakespeare in Love" and beyond, studios and producers have used their story-telling talents to expand and explore, creating tapestries that range from very historical to almost entirely (or entirely) nonhistorical.
So why have I given GLADIATOR five stars? Because it works well - very well - on the narrative level! As someone else has suggested, it is not really a biopic. Before the movie premiered in theaters most people on the street would be hard pressed to recount very much about the historical persons involved. Instead, here is a story with interesting characters going through some provocative change and circumstance, in which the two subset stories of (1) Commodus & Lucilla in Rome and (2) Maximus in Africa come together for an almost fate-initiated clash of calculating spite that climaxes in a slave-versus-emperor face-off in the Colosseum (then known as the Flavian Amphitheater). The story exhibits a respectable measure of originality; plot lines are largely not predictable.
The Roman Empire is reaching the zenith of its power and glory, spanning three continents, from Spain to Judea, from the Danube to the Nile. Emperor Marcus Aurelius - having concluded his military campaign against the Germanic barbarians - must now find someone to serve as 'the protector of Rome' (pending the Senate's readiness to rule). He knows his son Commodus is too corrupt for the position, so he appoints his now-favorite general, Maximus Decimus Meridius, for the role. When Marcus Aurelius breaks the news to his hopeful son, Commodus throws a fit, and father tries to comfort only to be suffocated by his scheming progeny. Commodus assumes emperorship, and when Maximus declines to pay homage, the young Caesar orders his execution, and his family's. Maximus foils the attempt on his own life and escapes, but not in time to save his wife and son. Distraught over the loss of his family, the former general is sold into slavery, to be trained as a gladiator. When the trainer learns that 'the games' have been instituted, he - and Gladiator Maximus - head to Rome for an unforgettable matchup.
Sure, Marcus' (and the Senate's) desire to "give power back to the people" sounds rather modern, as the Roman Senate of 1800-plus years ago was not as 'democratic' as is the United States Senate - though we may label it a few steps toward the idea - and that and other elements enrich the story, making it more palatable for [modern Western] viewers.
Quality performances by Harris, Crowe, Phoenix, Nielsen, and Reed. Other strong appearances by Jacobi and Hounsou add to the appeal. Plus great directing by Ridley Scott (especially during the action sequences), well-positioned cinematography, and a rousing score. For all of its shortcomings in the historical files, GLADIATOR has scope and grandeur.
P.S. For those who wish to learn more, various online sites offer some information about Marcus Aurelius, Commodus (and perhaps Lucilla) and about the world of the time in general, but the best source is probably Encyclopedia Britannica 2004.
31 My Favorite.
This is my current favorite. I just can't get enough of Russell Crowe or this movie. Love it's actors, style, music. A must see. A instant classic. Superb battle scenes. A ton of heart. Can think of anything bad to say. Although it may be a little violent for some. But, that's a given considering the subject. Russell Crowe's charactor is a amazingly brave man that you what to see win. Joaquin Phoenix gives an exrodinary acting job. As the troubled spoiled son who will do anything to have what he wants. Many amazing supporting actors. A great exit role for Richard Harris. A Great Film!
32 Should have been better
With Ridley Scott's name attached to a gladiator movie, I expected something good. Unfortunately, that is not the case. I hated the dog jumping through fire. I hated the musical score blatantly ripping off Gustav Holst' "The Planets". I hated the little boy who looked like pre-adolescent Adrian Lyne. I hated totally the UNCONVINCING cgi effects. I hated that the tigers didn't EAT any of the stadium combatants. I hated the completely miscast Joaquin Phoenix. I hate that the trailer featuring Kid Rock's "Bawitdaba" wasn't included on this dvd.
33 The Greatest
[...] I think most people have seen this movie, but if not this has been called many times by many people the best hero movie of all-time. Ridley Scott (BLADE RUNNER, ALIEN) transports Hollywood to second-century Rome in this rousing historical epic that proudly harkens back to such films as BEN-HUR and SPARTACUS. Russell Crowe plays Maximus, a Roman general who leads the troops in conquering Germania for the empire. When an aging Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris) tells Maximus that he'd like him to rule Rome once he's gone, a classic confrontation ensues between the brave and charming soldier--who wants to return home to his wife, son, and farm--and the jealous and conniving Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), the emperor's only son, who is thirsty for power. Bought as a slave by the profiteering Proximo (Oliver Reed, in his last role), Maximus must kill or be killed in the ring, battling to save not only himself but the future of the very empire that he loves and honors. The film features a terrific battle sequence (that recalls the beginning of SAVING PRIVATE RYAN), huge crowd scenes of thousands of people, and even a little romance, albeit mostly taboo. The impeccably choreographed gladiator scenes are violent yet thrilling, flashing by like lightning. GLADIATOR is a glorious spectacle filled with heart and soul.
34 Outstanding hero, a slave more powerful than the Emperor
I thought nothing could top "Spartacus," especially the love story between Spartacus and Varinia. There is a poetry in that screenplay that just sings and elevates. However, Maximus offers a worthy successor in the arena and even wins the love of a dying emperor as well as his daughter. The son, however, is another matter--at first Joaquin Phoenix looks completely foppish and in no way the equal of Maximus--until he starts scheming. His jealousy over the love of his father adds a dimension to what could have been a thoroughly despicable characterization.
Maximus fights for his freeedom, he fights for vengeance, he fights for the honor of his executed family. Human nature hasn't changed since ancient Rome. Certain values are timeless, and that is why this movie speaks to us.
35 Worth giving a try.
This film has long been touted as Braveheart part 2, and in most respects that is pretty accurate. It is watching for its own merits, however.
I have been a fan of Russell Crowe since LA Confidential, but this is not his finest hour. He does nothing to detract from the film, don't get me wrong. It just isn't the most challenging part for him.
36 quite excellent but for all those sissy greeks
theres this king who has a wussy for a son.so the king doesnt want a wussy for a ruler.that could be bad for greece.he does want his general though.so he gives the job to the general privately.he dies before making it public.the prince tries to take over.he kills the generals family and takes him in as a gladiater forcing him to fight in the ancient arenas.this is true by the way.he gets into many crazy arena battles.some even involving tigers!he becomes a big sensation with the people.its too gory for the children.a cool quote is"we're all just shadows and dust,maximus.shadows and dust!"of old movies from mid-evil times,this one is a lot better than most but doesnt touch braveheart.the prince is very obnoxious and gay.he was too much of a coward to battle maximus hiself.its better than anything i heard about it.its a bit long but action packed.
37 "Harry Knowles is right"
"Gladiator" is about what a man has to do to become more than just a man. Malcolm X, John F. Kennedy were more than men. Maximus sacrificed himself for the sake of Rome. Not sense "Ben-Hur" has there been a great sandle movie. Harry say's this was a great film, he's right. This isn't an action film, it's about a man who must go threw the trials a tribulations to become a hero. Maximus should be compared to other notorious characters, like Travis Bickle, Rocky, and Don Corleone. "Gladiator also deserves to be compared to "Spartacus", "Braveheart", and "Ben-Hur." I love this film, it's been 4 years sense it first came out, and the ending still touches me emotionaly. Bravo Russell Crowe, you deserved your Oscar.
38 Not much history in this one, a masterpiece nonetheless
It is a shame that Gladiator is sold as a movie based on historical facts when it is never made clear what exactly is historical about it and what not. Historical are Marcus Aurelius, his son Commodus, as well as his daughter Lucilla. The rest is fictional or very loosely based on historical facts. Yes, that includes Maximus.
Just to set the record straight:
-It is not know if Marcus Aurelius died of natural causes or if he was murdered. It is known though that he did secure the succession for his son.
-Commodus reigned for 12 solid years, not what appears to be less then a year in the movie. He was killed, but not in a heroic fight in the Collosseum, instead he was assassinated by a professional wrestler in his own bedroom. The assassin gained access to the bedroom with the help of Commodus's mistress. Who acted with the approval of the Senate.
Doing a google search on the characters will quickly tell you that this film is many things but not historical.
And it is because of this distortion of what actually happened that I give Gladiator 4 stars instead of 5.
Still, there is a lot of good to be said about Gladiator. I don't hesitate calling it an epic masterpiece of contemporary film. From the directing to the acting, the settings to the storyline, and especially the battles (gory as I think they should be), all of it has been executed with impressive skill. A shame though that Crowe, who plays a Spaniard, talks like a real aussie most of the time, not that this is ever distracting or annoying, more funny. :)
In short, I'd warmly recommend watching this one, just set aside the notion that it is Roman History you are watching, it isn't, instead you are watching Film History.
39 Bombast
Emperor Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris), close to death, tells his favourite general Maximus (Russell Crowe) that he doesn't want his weak and nasty son Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix) to succeed him. Rather Maximus is to take charge and use his army to restore the Republic. Foolishly Marcus then also tells Commodus who promptly kills him and orders the murder of Maximus. Maximus escapes but his family does not. Left with nothing he becomes a gladiator and a brutally effective one. Meanwhile Commodus, now emperor, has ordered some spectacular games to soften up the people with a view to abolishing the Senate. So Maximus finds himself in Rome. Look out, Commodus...
This film revived what had been a long dead genre, the ancient Roman epic. I at least didn't much mourn its passing. Like a lot of people, I'd guess, I'd sat down a few times to watch a broadcast of `Ben Hur' or `Spartacus' but had never made it to the end of these ponderous epics. The first time I saw this I was more of a captive audience in a cinema and a cinema is what it needs to make the most of the impressive cgi sets and the spectacular opening battle scene. Watching it again on a small screen it's hard to ignore the fact that it is all pretty fatuous and bombastic, albeit some of the time in a fun sort of way.
Phoenix and Crowe are OK in the lead roles. Commie Nelson is a bit feeble as the love interest, Commodus' sister Lucilla. Oliver Reed, who died before the film was complete, is nonetheless obviously enjoying himself as Proximo, Maximo's entrepreneurial master after he becomes a gladiator; and it's always a treat to see the brilliant Derek Jacobi back in a toga, here as a senator who leads the opposition to Commodus. If you want an expensive epic movie with lots of people riding around having swordfights and such that takes itself miles too seriously, this is certainly better than the recent tedious and overrated `Lord of the Rings' trilogy. But it's nothing special.
40 Forget Spartacus.
This is the best gladiator film, and one of the best films ever made. This is Scott's best, Crowes best, Phoenixes best, and Harris steals every scene he is in (even though they are few). The action is amazing, from the opening grand scale battle to the climatic showdown between Maximus and Comadus (lets not forget the incredible chariots sequence) the action is just the greatest (though of course its not like the matrix, but just as good none the less because its traditional swordplay done phenomenally). The story is deep, the performances are superb all around, the cinematography is sweeping, the visuals are great, the score is unforgettable, the action is... well i covered that, its powerful and stunning. This is film making at its best, in everyway. One of the best films ever made, right there next to Braveheart and LOTR. I recommend Troy, Braveheart, and The Last Samurai if you like this because they are both just as magnificant, but if you have any taste DONT SEE ROB ROY because its a disgrace to true hero films like this and Braveheart. The extras are great too, can you believe they were gonna have Maximus fight a rhino, that would have been so freakin awesome, too bad they didnt put it in the movie.
41 The Brave Hearted Gladiator.
Discover the paralleled power and glory of the Gladiator, a dazeling combination of vivd action and extraordinary unforgettable epic motion picture. This movie is simply magnificent and just mind catching it is just spectacular. The movie begins with a character known as Maxiums the commander of the Roman army and the evil emperor Commudus. He sends for the death of Maximums, which he then escapes and wonders on to the dersert and is sold to a man who trains gladiator. Later on he becomes a gladiator and fights and is seen by all, that he is a skilled fighter and earns the respect of the people and his fellow fighters. Then he confrunted by a conflict that changes his view in life, he sees his wife and child hung and burned to death and his house destroyed.He is then confronted by the emperor and is challenged to a fight to the death. No one Konws that he was sopose to be the emperor but Lucilla the sister of Commdus. Later on he is confronted by him and is staved underneath his ribs, but he succeeds on killing the evil emperor but dies as well.He is then carried out of the area by his fellow fighters and friends and his death turns him into a Colisiom star and that is why I give the gladiator a five star rating and is a breathtaking and is a must see and own movie.
42 It Is, Too, Available, Dear 'Zon--At least the two-discer...
*******
. . . for seven bucks more.
Stellar Film, Fine Features Make It a Home-Theater Must...., September 20, 2004
I usually don't like "sword and sandal" films, "spaghetti westerns," or films set in ancient Rome. But "Gladiator" bowled me over twice--once in the theater and once again at home courtesy of the two-disc DVD. (In fact, I consider that DVD such a staple that I'll probably screen it every year or so for years to come.)
As you probably know, the plot takes an outstanding Roman general, Maximus (Russell Crowe), from the site of his greatest military victory, and made him persona non grata the minute the old emperor died and the new one, his son Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix) took over under dubious circumstances. Maximus was scheduled for execution by the insecure new emperor but escaped and headed for his villa in Spain, but it was too late--Roman troops had already crucified and burned his wife and child. Maximus suffered a nervous collapse and was sold into slavery.
As portrayed by the powerful and versatile actor Russell Crowe, the plotwork of Maximus' struggle out of that and into "top billing" as a gladiator in Rome's Coliseum is best left to the movie; but as I alluded to before, even a short-attention-span guy like me found this meaty film downright riveting. Not to be ignored is the role of dialog and character development that intelligently and even gracefully motivates the plot. In a sense, this is the kind of epic 20th-Century Fox tried to make in 1962 with Cleopatra but generally flopped; happily, "Gladiator" deserves its already iconic status. It has everything--an epic scope, taut plotting, and performances worthy of the dialog: alongside Crowe, featured actors include the late Oliver Reed, the ever-so-slithery Joaquin Phoenix as Emperor Commodus, and wonderful Derek Jacobi as the elderly Senator who views his nutso new emperor with the detachment of a patrician and the fear of someone worried about the common people's welfare.
Thanks to computer animation and lots of graphic design, we are put in the middle of a quite realistic 50,000-seat Coliseum. (The "bells and whistles" special-feature aspect of the DVD package include a fine documentary of the making of the film, and intelligently discusses how computer-generated imagery ["CGI"] played such a foundational role in it.)
Oh, yes, the blood-and-guts factor at those games? The spectacles are fast, violent, bloody and (despite my every effort) intensely absorbing. And needless to say the scene when Maximus confronts Commodus, who had given him up for dead, is remarkable. your-pal-al allen smalling /
This is just one wonderful flick!
43 This is a great movie
I loved this movie, but it is a little long around the middle, and some of the fight scenes are just okay whereas others are brilliant, but otherwise this movie is still really good. Gladiator and Troy are now my 2 favorite epics, though Troy comes first.
44 Where do I sign up to be a gladiator
This is one of my favorite movies of all time and this is a great DVD for it. I was truly impressed to see such a movie come out of Hollywood. The casting was excellant and I was truly impressed that they choose a woman for the "romantic" lead that though truly hot actually looked the age of the character. This is proof that you don't have to hire 20 year olds to play 30 year old characters to have a good movie. Russel Crowe's acting in this was excellant. He really made it seem like he was Maximus, not just an actor playing a part.
What also impressed me was that though there were some moments of sexuality, they didn't feel the need to throw in unnecessary nude and/or sex scenes. Proof that you can have a mature movie without being trashy.
This movie was a great exploration of the contrast between a real man (Maximus) and a poser (Commitus). Throughout the whole we see the contrast between the one who had been given everything but earned nothing and the man who started with nothing but good character and through it overcame in the end.
I just wish I had another arm to be able to give it more than two thumbs up.
45 A Star is Born.... Easily 5 Stars... Plus Great DVD
This is a great movie and Crowe is simply outstanding. In some ways it is like the old epic Roman movies Spartacus or Ben Hur, with a good combination of writing, cinematography, acting, plus the magnet personality of a star - Crowe. It is like Ben Hur with the chariot scenes, but then again it has a much more complicated an unpredictable plot plus it mixes in a bit of the surreal. Simply put: this is a great movie that I had to watch twice in a row on the first viewing. The only negative for some people will be the bloody fight scenes - but they add to our understanding of the dangers and the lives of the Roman troops and the gladiators.
It is easy to understand the excitement and the awards the movie and its actors received, and it does seem to start Crowe on his way to becoming a major Hollywood actor and a modern day version of Bogart.
The DVD itself is sharp and clear. Also it has three of the best extras I have ever seen on a DVD: one on the movie production with almost every actor interviewed, one on Roman blood sports, and one on the music. They are long and detailed, and come on a second DVD in the two DVD set. I rented the DVD and was so impressed that I bought it on Amazon.com.
46 Fantastic! A true wonder
I nearly cried when I saw this movie. The music and the story will do that to you. But, WOW! Who could do this but Russle Crowe. I've never seen one of his movies that I've never liked. I like the part were he sees his son and wife dead. And, then it starts. He loses it. You can almost see the anger on his face. Its on now! Also, when he is talking to his troops at the battle. What we do does echo after death. That is so true! And, what a grand entrance. A headless horseman. Doesn't that send a message. You know right then how thoes people feel. They won't waste words. But, this one does wonders for you!
47 An Epic Movie For The Ages..!!
Gladiator marks the return of those epic movies about the Roman Empire of the 50's and 60's i.e. Spartacus, Ben Hur that seemed bigger than life. It is a grand spectacle of a movie that contains amazing fight and electrifiying battle scenes (think about the opening 15 minutes of the movie..!!) as well as superlative performances from not only Russell Crowe, who richly deserved his Best Actor award, but from an assortment of wonderful British actors i.e. Richard Harris, David Hemming, Oliver Reed.
Gladiator tells the story of Rome's most decorated soldier / general - Maximus. Maximus is loved by Richard Harris - Marcus Aurelius Caesar - who sees qualities in Maximus - strength, honour - that he does not see in his own son, Commodous (a great performance by Joaquin Phoenix).
When Commodous hears that his father is dying and will not be bequeathing the title of Caesar to him, but instead handing over the management of Rome to his most trusted general, Commodous murders his father and decides to execute Maximus for treason - not recognizing the treacherous Commodous as the new Caesar. In addition, he also decides to have Maximus' wife and son crucified as well.
Maximus escapes his executioners and escapes to his home, only to find his family murdered and his home burned to the ground. Shortly thereafter, he is found by Oliver Reed and banished to Reed's gladiator school.
The rest of this epic movie follows Crowe's ascent to "gladiator superstardom" while thirsting for revenge against Commodus, the man who killed his family.
Russell Crowe was made for this role. He commands much of the time on the screen and it's impossible to take your eyes off of him. Prior to his many fights in the colliseum, Crowe is like a focussed but caged animal just waiting to spring into life. It doesn't matter how much the odds are against him, Crowe is relentless in his desire to live to eventually get his revenge.
He's a natural leader of other men and it's remarkable to see him exert his leadership skills over the other gladiators who have also been captured and enslaved into this life. Crowe quickly gains "superstar" stature amongst the Romans who flock to the Colliseum to see him and this creates a problem for the Emperor, who sees the threat that Crowe poses, but can no longer just have him killed for fear of offending the Roman citizenry.
Like many of the great Hollywood historical epics, Gladiator is the story of the triumph of a heroic figure over seemingly-insurmountable odds. What sets this movie apart is that it manages to perfectly blend sweeping action scenes and great computer effects with a wonderful story and magnificent performances from both the leading and supporting cast.It never allows the special effects or grandeur of the scenery overshadow the basic storytelling of a slave / gladiator who is taking on the most powerful man in the world. Too many Hollywood films rely on the millions of dollars that they're able to throw at the digital and special effects and hope that this alone will salvage the movie (I disliked the Matrix movies immensely precisely for this reason.!)
This movie essentially tells a story that may not be entirely original, but it is told in an honest and forthright manner and is believable. Maximus is a decent man who is committed to a singleness of purpose - whether it is destroying the germanic army in the opening scene. Or exacting his revenge on the cowardly emperour who murdered his family.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention the efforts of the film's director, Ridley Scott. Best known for Blade Runner and Alien, Scott has managed to create an incredible canvas that conjures up the majesty that must have been ancient Rome. Between his vision - and Crowe's performance - they succeeded on a level that is not very often acheived.
It's no surprise that this movie successfully managed to be both a commercial and artisitic success and will appeal to both men and women.
Highly recommended.
48 OLD-SCHOOL CINEMA COMBINED WITH MODERN FILMMAKING.
Ridley Scott, who directed "Gladiator", took some of the best elements in classic movies like "Ben-Hur" and "Spartacus" (the set designs, the big production values, the man-to-man combats, the huge number of extras), and combined them with modern elements inspired by movies like "Braveheart" and "Saving Private Ryan" (the digital effects, the realism of the battles, the man fighting for his country and seeking for revenge).
"Gladiator" is a modern epic with good performances and good direction work. The cast includes solid actors like Russell Crowe, who dominates his role, specially in the physical aspect where he really looks like a warrior. Richard Harris in a brief but essential role as Marcus Aurelius. Joaquin Phoenix as the infamous Commodus, he portrayed one of the most cynic villains in recent years. Oliver Reed as Proximo, he also gave a memorable performance.
Ridley Scott gave a dynamic pace to "Gladiator", even though this movie is an epic, its length is shorter than movies like "Ben-Hur". He also used CGI visual effects in a lot of open camera angles, for example, in the landscapes there are a lot of CGI elements added to the shots. The sound and the music are very good, and it reflects in a more realistic movie.
"Gladiator" is a very good movie, it's a very good way to introduce younger audiences to a classic genre. If you liked this movie, then you should see the classics, like "Ben-Hur" and "Spartacus".
49 Best Roman war movie EVER! A MUST BUY
Truly amazing epic feature. Russel Crowe is brilliant and the CG is unbelievable. A must buy for any war or movie fan.
50 Great Roman Pseudohistory
Ridley Scott's brilliant skills as a director bring vivid imagery to the pageantry and spectacle of the Roman Empire. Unfortunately, the historical context of the story is so thwarted that it was rather disappointing. Furthermore, although Scott's skills are particularly famous for setting a mood through surreal imagery and vivic colors(i.e. 1492, Blade Runner), it seemed really overdone in some parts of this film.
The film's historical license is somewhat laughable. Although a general named Maximus did lead the German legions under the reign of Marcus Aurelius, he was executed by Commodus shortly after Marcus Aurelius' death. The most absurd part of the plot was the notion of Rome turning once again into a republic with overwhelming support: such sentiments were long dead at that point as the republic had ceased to exist for over 200 years; a well developed imperial bureaucracy provided many peoples with prominent positions and considerable influence to keep the imperial institution fixed as a permanent one. In turn, political struggles manifested themselves as palace intrigues or ambitious generals gaining the loyalties of devoted legions. Equally absurd is the scene with senators Gaius and Falco tempting Maximus with thoughts of a Republic within earshot of Commodus and Marcus Aurelius: that's a laugh since even the 'benevolent' Marcus Aurelius would probably have such individuals immediately executed for entertaining such dangerous ideas. Thus, the climactic ending where Rome is once again an ideal republic comes across as a cheap farce demonstrating either the historical ignorance of the script writer or, more likely, Hollywood's excessive indulgence in further perpetuating a propagandist pseudo-history.
The opening scene depicting the battle between the Rhine Legions and the Germanic tribes is truly brilliant in terms of cinematography; a feat unattempted since Kubrik's epic depiction of the Roman legions attacking the slave army in "Spartacus." Although much of the armor and weaponry seemed faithful to the imperial army of the day in terms of the regular legions and cavalry, I was disappointed in the costumes of the praetorian guards; the armor was so polished and the helmets so futuristic that they almost seemed to be extra props from a "Star Wars" movie conveniently shuffled on to the next film set. The same is true for some of the scenes in the gladiatorial shows such as the crossbows: weapons that didn't exist at the time. The unpaved dirt roads leading into Rome were also a laugh. Finally, Commodus' triumphal procession through Rome was too rigid to be credible with an overkill in black/royal purple that doesn't reflect the fashion of that period at all. The costumes were too futuristic and the whole scene seemed too clean and polished: the characters appeared to be more like lead miniatures neatly arranged in a glass display.
The soundtrack was the biggest disappointment. The wailing new-aged Persian singing being truly out-of-tune with the context of the movie: is this a movie about Imperial Rome or Islam? A little more imperial fan-fare please (i.e. Miklos Rosza, Basil Poledouris.) This was as inappropriate as using Hawaiian music for a classic Western soundtrack. The music for the Commodus' procession was also such a cheap steal of Richard Wagner's "The Ring" trilogy they might as well have stuck to the original: absolutely no creativity in that musical score.
Despite these draw backs,the acting was decent: especially J. Phoenix as Commodus and Oliver Reed as Proximo. The combat scenes were a little quick in timing but certainly captured the mood of the fury and excitement of these spectacles. Oscar material? No. Worth owning? Most definitely.
51 okay
this is a three star movie with a five star dvd. one of the biggest problems with the movie was the first battle. i was expecting braveheart quality but ended with a battle less entertaining than the one in dragonheart. the blurry camera and closeups made it impossible to tell what was happening. if you want to see a movie like this but better, see the last samurai or braveheart.
52 A Modern Classic of an Old Age
I seldom write reviews for anything, but for a movie like 'Gladiator' I'm willing to make an exception, and gosh if it's worth doing it!!
The movie, by far the best of the year 2000, is not only an award-winning production, but it is also one of the few that I personally enjoy watching again and again and again. Not because it is flawless (at times the storyline is quite predictable) but because it portrays life and death in the Roman Empire in such a way that it really bring those old buildings we all know since childhood (the Coliseum, the Forum, Via Appia, etc) back to life.
And yet it does so not at the expense of the story but through it, from the characters, to the script (they're so many quotables lines from Maximus and Commudus alone to make a CD)...in fact everything in the movie, from the battle in Germanica to the last fight at the Coliseum, is portrayed with realism plus an amazing score lacking in so many movies these days.
The movie of course is not to be seen as "history" in the academic sense but rather as an historical exercise, Holywood style, of one of the most facinating and complex periods of Western History. The attention to the detail is amazing, especially in the opening scene (the battle in Germanica) and the gladiatorial fights. Even most deleted scenes are great in the sense that they allow us to understand the characters a little bit more (Commudus' sword smashing of his father's marble bust is a most see), although they neither add nor take of the story. The casting is superb, with Russell Crow in the main role, Joaquin Phoenix as the Emperor Commudus, along with such legends as Oliver Reed as the freedman slaveholder and Richard Harris as the great Marcus Aurelius.
I'll recomend strongly that anyone who sees this movie shoudl do his/her homework and do a little of reading about Rome, both as a Republic and after, and the huge importance of the entertaining business in her late everyday life (an importance unreached until recent times).
Overall, a classic epic of an scope and ambition not seen since 'Ben Hur'; full of action, drama... and yes, more action.
As the Romans themselves said, Faber est quisque fortunae suae... each one is the architect of his own fortune. Feliciter!
53 Surprising take on an old genre
I approached viewing this film in the theaters as a typical summer "guy film" full of action and not much thought. But my love of world history overcame my trepidation that I would see another "toga" film like those of 30 years ago. So I went to see it--and was brought up short by the very first shot: Maximus' hand skimming through the wheat. That's when I knew it WOULD NOT be a typical toga action film. Someone had actually put some thought behind character and plot and visually defining them. So though Maximus' trajectory from great to fallen to great is nothing new--it's told better than the norm. And I also liked the nods to actual historical figures (if not the exact same time period) in the names "Maximus" and "Gracchus".
RE: Acting: The character arc of Maximus would attract any actor, but I loved watching Russell Crowe. Charlize Thereon (sp?) says she acts "with her forehead" and in many ways, so does RC, but he is also one of the few actors who could remain perfectly still yet still convey worlds of thoughts/emotions from the neck up. It was also nice to see Joachin Phoenix grow as an actor and hopefully reach a fuller potential than his late brother did. Richard Harris has played a number of kings very well and his Marcus Aurelius reminded me a lot of his Arthur over thirty years ago. And of course, once again he is in a film with David Hemmings. Derek Jacobi I don't worry about--after "I Claudius", why should I? And how wonderful was it to finally see Oliver Reed in a worthwhile film after waiting so long? (Though of his many roles--and I've seen a lot--I still like Athos) It was sad to lose him, and a few years later Harris and Hemmings.
All the dvd extras were nice, and for once,intellectually informative not just 'fan fare'. I wish the final script was available however--not just the excerpts in the accompanying "Making Of..." book. And what about a still of that first shot--or the matching last FS of Maximus striding though the wheat towards home and family?
54 excellent
This is the most amazing sounding dvd I have ever in my life, that also includes the movies theaters. I have an 8.2 surround sound system with a yamaha rx-v3000 and a 10' dlp infocus projector. I literally felt like I was in the battle scenes. 5.1 dolby digital is ok and thx is a little better then dolby, but nothing compares to 6.1 dts es. I wish all dvd's sounded as good as this one. Then I would never have to spend another $12 at the movies again.
55 Best Picture? Give me a break.
I thoroughly HATED this movie. The fight scene with the tigers was visually spectacular, but that doesn't make up for a drudgingly dull plot & awful acting from Russell Crowe. He Is, in my opinion, the single most over-rated actor in the last 20 years. He has gone above and beyond when it comes to OVER ACTING, none of his roles that I've seen have been convincing OR entertaining. I am certainly not qualified to critisize an actor and nobody may find my review to be helpful, but I have to be honest in my opinions and mine is this: THIS MOVIE IS A STINKER!
56 the best movie ever made
I have watched this movie everyweek clips from it everyday and i know the script by heart.
you need to own this and the gladiator music cds.
alan
www.thebarbecuemaster.com
57 Gladiator
This is by far my favorite movie! Russell Crowe's acting is superb. All parts of this movie are fasinating and entertaining. I would recomend this movie to ANYONE. If you haven't seen it yet, you're missing out! This film has everything important to a good plot and screenplay. Drama drama drama!
58 Gladiator- The Best movie Ever!
This movie is so good. I just loved the action in it. The blood is somethings too much but other than that you could ask for a better movie. The historical aspect of the movie was very good. Execpt the Marcus Aurelius, the Emperor at the beging of the movie, never wanted to restore the Republic no on else wanted to do this as well. The thumbs up and down were not correct if you had lived in anctient Rome. Thumbs up was death and down was life becuase death was the enterainment to the Romans. However the fight at the beging of te movie distplayed very actruate military moves. There actually was a German tribe that envaded the Empire in 167 B.C. during the rule of Marcus Aurelius. The formations of the centurian was accurate but Marcus Aurelius died of cancer and not of his son as in the movie. The Gladiator fights themselves were very well done. The Romans actually did fights in which one group was a particular army and the other was the good people. Such as the fight in which Maximus' gladiators were Hannibal's men and the others were Scipio Africanus' men. The two armies dipictied were actullay real people that were alive during the Punic Wars in which Scipio Africanus defeated Hannibal's men a the battle of Zama in 202 B.C. The section in which Maximus was trying to get his army back becuase his army thought he was dead. Was very well done becuase due to the fact that Rome became a professional army due to Marius and their loyalty rested with thier Generals not Rome. So this is why Maximus could have marched on Rome with his army if they had gotten reunited. This is one of my favorite movies I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did and still am.
59 Great Movie
This movie is one of my favorites. Russell Crowe was great in it, and everything was just perfect. Loads of fighting, and teary eye moments. You'll cheer on Maximus 'til the end. (I can't really write reviews but someone gave this film a bad review... and thats not right)
60 The best epic in years.
Crowe does a fantastic acting job here.
61 One of my Favorites
Gladiator is one of my favorite movies. It has action, drama, great cinematography, outstanding fight scenes, love, great acting, and most importantly, it's a great story.
For those who haven't seen it I don't want to give away the entire plot. Briefly, Maximus, the virtuous and victorious commander of the Roman army over the Visigoths, is asked by the dying Emperor, Marcus Aurelius, to become the protectorate of Rome upon his death and return the rule of law to the Senate, making Rome once again a Republic. Aurelius's evil and ambitious son, Commodus - fully expecting to made emperor himself - will have none of it, striking out against his father and destroying Maximus. Maximus becomes a slave, then a gladiator, eventually finding himself fighting in the Roman Coliseum in front of his nemesis, Commodus.
The story has somewhat of classic plot line - similar in some ways to the Tale of Monte Cristo as Maximus seeks revenge, but more than revenge, he seeks to carry out the wishes of a dying emperor and a higher cause. The movie also paints Maximus as the classic Republican citizen, who wants nothing more after securing victory for Rome than to go home to his family and farm. Unfortunately, events conspire against him as he forced to make yet another sacrifice for this country. Even at the bitter end he seeks to serve Rome.
On a side note, unlike others I didn't find the special features that interesting. They were pretty typical "The Making Of" documentaries. And the historical piece was not that new, to me at least.
62 Really a Great Movie
This is one of my favorite movies of all time, and everything is just great, including the story, acting, and definately the music. Go see it!
63 Ic.
It's very boring.All other movies nominated in the Academy Award for the Best Picture are better than this one.
64 Epic Splendor Reborn
After forty years the Epic Roman film is revised and reborn in unmatched magnificence. The new age of the ancient world in film arises under the vision of Ridley Scott and presents us with the Oscar winning star making performance by Russell Crowe.
Now that we have the wonders of computer graphics there is no place that film makers can not take us and no world past, present of future they can not create in ways that would a few years ago proven cost prohibitive.
The demise of the ancient Epic of the early 60's may have been in part due to the fact that to recreate Rome, Greece, or Egypt with any degree of splendor studios had to build full sized sets and people them with thousands of extras. See as superb examples of this real time expensive film style illustrated in "Cleopatra" 1963 or "The Fall of the Roman Empire" 1964 (Which has many parallels to "Gladiator"). But today we can revisit this old genre and make it exciting and new with our technological advancements in film.
Scott and his collaborators have given new life and spawned a new generation of epic such as the upcoming "Troy" and "Alexander" with this impressive and exciting film.
The only thing I found disturbing in the recreation of Rome was that it was painted in terracotta's and blacks. I would have preferred to see the riot of color that Rome actually was. But beyond this nitpicking I am thrilled by what I see on the screen.
But for the first time viewer there awaits the visceral impact of Russell Crowe's creation of Maximus. Truly a star turn that few actors of his generation could achieve. He fills the screen, the film, the very era with authority, strength, and even tenderness and proves here that there is nothing this fine talent cannot do. With Maximus he transfigures his screen persona to the Elysium of the greats such as Spencer Tracy, Clark Gable, and Paul Newman.
Scott has surrounded his star with stellar supporting performers who add to the film with talent and in some cases just the right touch of humor.
The music by Hans Zimmer, which by now is much imitated in TV miniseries of late, recalls the greatness of Rozsa and Alex North and adds dimension and scope to the picture.
The cinematography by John Mathieson, particularly in the opening scenes in Germania is of such skill and beauty that the viewer is transported to the 1st Century A.D.
The DVD is chock full of wonderful extras including a hilarious parody trailer for "Chicken Run" (this is an Easter egg. Just look for the Roman eagle on Richard Harris' breastplate.)
"Gladiator" is a supreme effort and well deserving of it's many laurels.
65 The Moose Hole - 'Gladiator' Resurrects Golden Age of Cinema
Does anyone truly remember the golden age of cinema anymore? It was the era when the screen was lit up with lavish epic-dramas set against ancient backdrops such as Greece or Rome, where the likes of Kirk Douglas and Charlton Heston fully controlled the attention of movie-going audiences across the country for three-plus hours, and when going to the movies cost you under a dollar (and that was including popcorn and soda-pop). Well it seems the studio executives in Hollywood are becoming quite nostalgic as they are willing to take a risk and return motion pictures back to the genre that many thought was dead long ago. And it was Gladiator, a film that contained what many thought was a washed-up director and no-name leading man, that resurrected the "ancient" genre thanks to its nearly $200 million domestic haul, massive DVD release, and its five Academy Awards wins including Best Picture. Now Hollywood is going all out in, what they hope will be, the new golden age of cinema complete with lavish three hour epic-dramas, gladiatorial and militant battle sequences, and overly-oiled up leading men ... if only they could be convinced to bring back old ticket prices, only then would we be truly satisfied but perhaps that is asking too much too soon.
The story center on a man who was once in the service of a vast ancient empire commanding troops in grand feats of battle but now serves merely as entertainment in the gladiatorial events fighting for his life. Maximus Decimus Meridius was one of the greatest generals the Roman Empire had ever seen in that he courageously fought in battle, won the field when he was commanded to do so, and retained the loyalty and devotion of his troops. Here was a man truly a rare sight in the area of leadership, one that could, if given the opportunity to, lead Rome back to its former glory as a republic and not an empire. That is what the current emperor, Marcus Aurelius, sees in him and why he choose Maximus over his son Commodus to take control of Rome when he dies. Unfortunately Commodus suffocates his father before the announcement can be made public and orders Maximus to be secretly done away with. After escaping from his captors and returning home to find his wife and son crucified, he is taken by slave traders and made into a gladiator meant to kill other slaves for the enjoyment of the veracious crowds. When he is entered in the gladiatorial games in Rome, he sets out to enact his revenge on Commudus, either in this life or the next, all the in the effort of seeking retribution for the deaths of his innocent family. The story for Gladiator, though marred with numerous historical inaccuracies, is quite honestly one of the most entertaining and visually engaging epic-dramas in years. Though it is not the most original story line one could come up with (it borrows heavily from Hamlet and other Shakespearian plays), the plot does manage to keep the audience's attention even against a lengthy two hour and forty minute running time.
Gladiator is one of the rare shining example for the rest of Hollywood ... a $100 million budgeted epic does not need tremendously famous leading men and women to be successful as long as the cast members that are used in the film are suited to their roles and work cohesively well together on screen, which this film demonstrates in spades. The role of Maximus Decimus Meridius is quite possibly Russell Crowe's most commanding performance to date, with the only exception being his role as Captain Jack Aubrey in the naval drama, Master & Commander: The Far Side of the World. He successfully transitions his character from a dynamic general in the beginning of the film to a barbaric gladiator by the mid-way point of the film, and yet at the same time he maintains some of those leadership qualities that made the character so enduring to begin with. Another relatively unknown, at the time of this film's release, actor who manages to light up the screen was Joaquin Phoenix with his exuberant and often disturbing performance as the Emperor Commodus. The character is so overly emotional, viciously conniving, and eerily mysterious that one can't help but have extreme hatred for him from the moment you first see on screen. Phoenix does a tremendous job at emotionally setting a character that you are meant to hate, which only fuels already fervent enthusiasm for Maximus as he progresses through the film. Possibly the only slightly famous name on the list of cast members belongs to the late veteran actor, Richard Harris, though the only people who may have really recognized his name would have been film enthusiasts and fans of his work. Harris presents a character that, although he is the emperor of a vast empire, is frail and grandfather-like in manner and actions, which makes his death scene all the more excruciating to watch. And praise must also be given to Connie Nielsen, the only woman of the cast, who showcases a strong and caring woman trapped between the wishes of her dead father, the brutality of her powerful brother, and her enduring love for Maximus. It is not till the final sequence of the film till we see her fully come into her own and present it a way that is eloquent and yet commanding at the same time.
Overall, Gladiator successfully resurrects the once dead epic genre albeit more sanguineous, vicious and gut-wrenching then its golden age predecessors. Visually, and emotionally, this film is nearly perfect with Ridley Scott's direction taking the ancient world of Rome and presenting to the movie-going audience that is neither overwhelming nor is it trivial to their view of the story at hand in this film. The only major complaint that can be made about this film is its constant lack of respect, or reverence, to historical events and characters involved in the plot of the film. One can say that this is an action-drama that is not meant to be played out for historical purposes but the fact that it deliberately takes historical figures and twists their lives to make them more interesting for the overall plot of the film should be disturbing to many educators, though, it must be clearly noted, that this is hardly the first, nor last, time Hollywood is guilty of such a crime. But taking the film, despite all of that, for what it is, Gladiator is one of the most enthralling and emotionally compelling dramas of 2000, though not at quite the level of being the best picture of the year.
66 Gladiator is among the elite
Gladiator is a film that I could spend all night talking about, most of it good talk. In fact, from a story stand point, the film is ingenius and creative. The idea that a slave, a gladiator could be more powerful than the will of the Emperor is well thought through. I think the film did a masterful job pointing out what Rome was back then: an empire ruled by corrupt rulers and influenced heavily by the Roman mob. This is true, if you know your Roman history. The film isn't historically correct, big deal, it still tells a fantastic storyline.
But I will dedicate this review in reply to another review written six days ago by someone that tried their hardest to knock this film. The viewer from Los Angeles wrote a very bad review in which he fails to prove, despite his numerous examples, of how Gladiator is such a bad film.
His first criticism is that Commodus is too weak of a bad guy. How so? He performs as a typical young, inexperienced yet ambitious little brat would. I never saw him as weak. A pompous brat, yes. But weak, not really. As far as feeling sorry for him, that's your issue, there's nothing to feel sorry for about him.
Then the reviewer complains that Marcus Aurelius' character isn't wise because he didn't take the time to train Maximus when he was young. Well, gee, let's all bawl over spilt milk. Who cares what he should've done.
The reviewer complains next that Maximus never does complain over his situation. Not true. In scene where Maximus is talking with Marcus' daughter and he is chained to the wall, you can hear the frustration inside him. In fact, if the reviewer had taken the time to look into Maximus' character to begin with, you would see that Maximus is a humble man, not a whiner. And that Maximus doesn't have to out right say "Gee, I hate being a slave." You get the idea through his discouragement by refusing to fight and his frustrations of being a slave and having to kill for a living.
The reviewer then whines about how Maximus is given so much herald in his first battle even though he did nothing special. Again, not watching the film very closely. The film doesn't show us all the battles Maximus battles in, but it would be apparent that he gains a reputation as time moves on due to how all the gladiators begin to respect him. Duh.
Then the reviewer has a problem with a soldier admitting he served under him. Who cares if he just now brings it out? What is your problem, are you this skeptical of an individual that you have to have a tantrum over everything? If anything, it just raises question marks, it doesn't make it a bad film. Geez.
Then the reviewer makes his biggest mistake in his criticism of Gladiator. The reviewer doesn't understand how Maximus is more powerful than the emporer. Again, pay attention to the film and you'll see why. As I stated in the beginning, the film is ingenius because the point of the film is to show how a slave in chains, yes chains, can wield more power through influence than the emporer.
Again, I don't understand this nitpicking of this film from this reviewer. It's unfounded and a lot of the criticisms have answers to them if you just watch the film carefully and pay attention. This film has a lot of deepness and it is because of its deep qualities that makes Gladiator champion.
Grade: A+
67 A Great Movie in the Vein of the Classic Roman Epics
The epic may have passed from popularity decades ago, but every so often the genre crops its head up and shows us just why these types of movies are so compelling. "Gladiator" is a solidly acted movie and well directed. I'm not going to hide the fact that Ridley Scott is my favorite director, and this movie is a good example of his directorial talent. "Gladiator" certainly has its drawbacks, the most obvious existing in its historical inaccuracies. Although the rewriting of history is irksome, I have to admit that this is only a movie. As such, it's primary concerns are maintaining quality acting and artistic vision.
None of the emperors - Marcus Aurelius and his son, Commodus - are true to their historical personas. In actuality, both were very strong individuals. I tend to think that "Gladiator's" Commodus is more like Caligula or Nero - obviously insane with dysfunctional sexual tendencies. However, since this movie is not a biopic, this is not a major concern. It's intention was to create a compelling story centering around a fictional general. Both Richard Harris and Joaquin Phoenix (especially Phoenix) create multi-dimensional characters. The ending, which I won't spoil here, is completely inaccurate, but, again, I don't consider this a detractor from the film.
The only real thing that bothered me in this film was, firstly, the "iffy" dialogue the studio squeezed out for Oliver Reed's Proximo after his death. I suppose recasting his character would have been impossible and disrespectful to Reed, but I don't think that they did an adequate job continuing on his character. My second criticism is that the movie didn't show enough of the Roman Senate. I would have liked to have seen how Commodus's rising power affected that elite class as a whole, but then again, that probably wouldn't have been in keeping with the nature of the film, which centers around Maximus.
Again, a solidly acted movie with the spectacular Ridley Scott at the directorial helm. Give up your reservations against its historical inaccuracies and embrace its artistic vision.
68 Great Entertainment
You know, I adore this movie. But I'm not sure I can really say why. I don't do it often, but when I do, I can slip the disc into player and sit through it like I had never seen it before.
Granted, the story is not all that original. And there are logic flaws (ie Maximus was raised with the emperor's family, but had never been to Rome...unlikely!) But still, there's just something about this movie. Maybe it's that I can sit and watch it, and for the whole 2+ hours I can lose myself in the story. A story that just moves. From point A to B to C... The pace just keeps pulling you along with it.
I never saw it in the theater, but the film on the DVD is awesomely beautiful. Or, maybe I adore this movie because Maximus is a character you can't help but root for. And from scene one you get pulled into his story and it won't let you go until the very end.
On the surface, in this day and age, and given the subject matter, I can understand how some people are surprised to learn of the awards it's won. But once you've seen it, you'll know it deserved every one that it has received.
GLADIATOR is why I watch movies.
GLADIATOR is entertainment.
69 One of 2000's best movies.
I am a big fan of Ridley Scott's work. Alien and Thelma and Louise were wonderful, and he definately made a great comeback in this film. Gladiator is one of the grandest movies. The places that this movie takes you is almost like you are there. The fight scenes were very real and dramatic. Russel Crowe was destined to play Maximus. He outshined Mel Gibson's role in Braveheart. Jacquin Pheonix played a wonderful villain in the film as well. This definately every Academy Award that it received. This movie is the greatest film based on the Roman times other than Ben Hur. I highly reccomend this film.
70 When in Rome.
Once upon a time, Hollywood made films like this on a regular basis. Russell Crowe sucessfully carries on the sword-and-sandal tradition with this star-making performance, bringing a newfound realism that past epics like 'Ben-Hur' and 'Ten Commandments' lacked. The excellent cast, especially Joaquin Phoenix as the amoral Commodus, help to personify the debauchery and arrogance of ancient Rome, while Crowe delivers both as a man's-man and also as a humbled slave, defeated in life by Rome's excesses but redeemed in death by his devotion to family and honor. A fine epic, well worthy of its many awards.
71 Once was enough
There was ALOT of hype surrounding this movie. I watched Braveheart(5), The Patriot(4) and Gladiator(3) back to back. I would rank them in that order 1,2 & 3. I hate sitting on the fence by giving it 3 stars. However I think it is a bronze medal performance.
Good enough to watch, but maybe not good enough to add to your own DVD collection. Watching it once was enough for me. Maybe go rent it.
72 Film of the actions, not the pages
Gladiator was the first in a series of recent successful Russell Crowe movies, and I think he started on not so bad a foot. The plot is centered on a general (Russell Crowe) who is loved by all, until the emperor's crazed son gets wind that Crowe is supposed to takeover instead of himself. As all jealous based plots go, Crowe is sent away and stripped of his old life. This is much like Dante in Monte Cristo, except for the fact that Crowe becomes a gladiator instead and has to find himself and "old Rome" through the games instead of a prison cell. It is an okay movie overall, but really the only things that made this movie interesting to me were the gladiatorial games themselves. I feel that the dialogue and basic plot overall is lacking, but I understand that the basic plot highlights the action, and therefore not meant to stand up to much criticism in the first place. Historically it is off too, but not everyone cares about that kind of thing these days, but if you do be warned. I would say this movie is worth a rental, and maybe on a personal level you will find it more exciting than me, but I would not just go off and buy it.
73 We salute you, Ridley.
Gladiatorial combat is immortalized in this film, the only way it can be: through stunning action sequences and beautiful imagery. It also immortalizes, above all, director Ridley Scott.
Roger Ebert complains of people with short memory spans praising this film while forgetting that films like Spartacus have supposedly done this before. Well, I have a good memory, and I remember Spartacus. In fact, I kept on remembering that film while watching Gladiator, only in the context of, "This is so much better than Spartacus. It goes beyond." The action is better, the visuals are better, the story is better, and the acting is better. Sorry, Kirk.
Since this is an action film, the story isn't the most important element, but for an action film it is actually quite good. For one thing, I liked the disturbing under-the-surface incest element going on between Commodus and Connie Nielson. Furthermore, it was interesting to see how Crowe gained support among the gladiators until it became as if he were a general leading his army again. The plot itself needed to be there in order to fully create a sense of grandeur. With its insurrection story, the rise of the hero and his trek to the capitol of Rome, and the look at the people in power, the plot creates a sense of time-and-place necessary for an epic that couldn't exist with the visuals and action alone.
The acting is among the best one can ever seen for an action film, and there is plenty of fine dramatic work pulled off by the two main actors. Russell Crowe is now one of the best "new" (four or five films so far) actors in film. We believe, in his glances and the ways he delivers his many great lines, that he is Maximus. He is poignant, hate-filled, and sorrowful all at once. The praise he is getting is deserved. But why isn't Phoenix being lauded just as much? He carries the film in the second-largest role just as well as Crowe. His Emperor Commodus isn't a good villain and has no real character, but Phoenix adds so many layers to him and turns him into a great antagonist that that alone makes his performance excellent. He commands attention just as Crowe does. All by himself (no help from any great dialogue or development), he creates a villain that is prissy, whining, ambitious, pathetic, and malevolent, and worthy of our hate as well as our pity. It's a wonderful transformation. To sum it up, the characters themselves aren't really developed at all- but the acting is so good that it seems they are.
Now, onto the action, which, as I had hoped, is plentiful and intense. It has diversity and grandeur. All the fights were fast, hard-hitting, uncensored, and very bloody, which is what they should've been like. And every single fight sequence is unique from the others. There's the match where two men fought chained to each other, the opening war battle, Maximus vs. numerous other fighters, and the final sword duel, to name a few. This is so much more than just two half-naked men fighting with swords, which is what it could've been. The film also captures the feel and the motion of combat. Ridley Scott speeds up the film slightly during fight scenes to show the chaos and rapid reflexes necessary to survive. During the fight scenes, the camerawork is nonstop and covers the combat as one big blur to the fighters. (But we can still follow the fights themselves.)
This film also stands out in my mind as one of the most visual, image-driven action films I've ever seen. Thanks to Ridley Scott, practically every scene is jammed with wonderful detail, art direction, even distinct lighting (the Collosseum orange, other parts of Rome dark blue). Just look at the wide multitude (seemingly infinite number) of battle masks, weapons, and locales. Cinematography is skillful and impressive. There are tons of memorable shots, like Maximus entering the ring with rose petals coming down on him like rain from above, Commodus' pure white battle costume (when he's being risen up on the platform he looks like a demented angel ascending to heaven), and the images used to represent Crowe's home- the gentle hand carressing the wheat reeds, the door to his house, etc. They had a surreal quality and each were bathed in their own distinct color. Excellent work, Ridley.
A very impressive film. So why can't all summer movies be this good? We'd be spoiled.
74 Thank you Ridley Scott!!!
Maximus Decimus Meridias ( Russell Crow) is the general of the Roman army. Over the course of being general, Maximus has won many victories which has caused him to be loved by not only his soldiers, but the aging emperor Marcus Aurelius ( Richard Harris) as well. As time grows nearer towards the emperor's death, he names Maximus as his successor over his son Commodus(Joaquin Phoenix)in a private conversation between Maximus and himself. When Commodus is told the news by his father, Commodus kills him in a fit of rage. In order to keep his father's last wishes hidden, he orders that Maximus and his family are to be killed so that he can become Rome's newest emperor. Maximus manages to escape before he can be killed, but loses his will to go on when he discovers his wife and son dead. He is captured by a slave trader named Proximo ( Oliver Reed) and forced to compete as a Gladiator until he is killed in battle. However, Maximus proves to be a worthy Gladiator, and soon wins the hearts of the crowds in the Colliseum. Maximus uses his desire for revenge to fuel his way towards gaining his revenge on Commodus.
Ridley Scott's "Gladiator" is an amazing film. For 2 1/2 hours I was glued to the screen and loving every minute of it. Gladiator is the first film since Braveheart, that captivated me and left me speechless. Everything about this film was extremely well done. The story was extremely inspiring because of what Maximus is forced to go through. At times I was also somewhat amused by the story because it featured elements of the WWE and reminded me of the Stone Cold Steve Austin/ Vince McMahon feud. The more that Maximus rebelled against the system and defied the emperor Commodus, the more he was revered. The battle scenes in this film are unreal. They are so violent and realistic, that you wil be made to flinch at times. The musical score to this film was amazing. It was extremely powerful and moving. Each time that it played throughout the film, the intensity of the scene would increase. I also thought that Ridley Scott did an excellent job at recreating the Colliseum and ancient Rome in general. Everything from the actor's dialogue to the costume designs were dead on. Rusell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix were both amazing in their roles and played extremely well off of each other. Their feud was extremely entertaining throughout the whole film. Richard Harris, Oliver Reed, Connie Nielsen, and Djimon Hounsou were all fantastic in their roles as well.
Overall, Gladiator is a great film. The story is inspiring, all the actors involved did a great job, the musical score was very powerful, and the film effectively recreated ancient Rome. The 2 disc DVD set is great on its own. The first disc features the film and offers outstanding picture and sound quality. If you have surround sound, you will love watching this film when using it. The second disc contains nothing but extras that include 25 minutes of deleted scenes, featurettes, an interview with Hans Zimmer on the making of the musical score, and more.
A solid 5 stars...
75 Where is Maximus Originally From?
I have been arguing about Maximu's Nationality. In the Movie the claim is that he is from Spain. However, he was just named a Spaniard by his master after he lost his wife and only son. So can someone help me here please. email me as soon as possible.
76 Got A Problem Mate!!!
Yes the tough man of Hollywood is shown in all his glory, playing the part of a fallen Roman general "Maximus" who seeks revenge on the man who killed his wife and child.
Sold into slavery and brought by none other than the man of all bar room fights, Oliver Reed, Maximus becomes a Gladiator and soon plots his advesarys downfall.
A real blood and guts movie not for family viewing.
As a two disc set, this package has absolutly everything you need to know about the making of this film and the history of the Gladiator. It is such a shame that a big deal was make over the constant bloopers that showed up in the final cut, bcause you can now see them. Thats why I have given it four stars instead of five.
77 The Best of Its Kind
That pretty much says it all. It is a great fantasy with exciting action, a good story, impressive visuals, solid acting, a well written script and a good ending.
It's definitely not historically accurate or overly new and innovative.
It may be THE single best video to try out a new surround sound system with - which I did.
It certainly takes you back to the days of Hollywood's glory. Gladiator is a true epic and a great movie.
78 'Are You Not Entertained?'
Gladiator presents to movie goers a refreshing and original piece of story telling. The plot is easy to follow but contains enough twists and creativity to keep viewers interested. Personally, I myself would rank this movie high on my list of the greatest films of all time...Entertaing and truly superb, Gladiator is a true winner.
The performances were extraordinary. Russell Crowe is amazing as Maximus, but the real standout, omitted in earlier reviews, is by Joaquin Phoneix, as the looked down upon Caesar of Rome, Commodus. My two other favorite were played out by Connie Neilsen and Richard Harris. Overall, the charcters brought their emotions upon the auidience very well and let me relate to them.
Technically, the film acheives greatness all across the board.
From the spectacular visuals, state of the art direction (Ridley Scott), and fitting costumes, to the screenplay and powerfull score (Hans Zimmer).
The many battle scenes are breathtaking and extremly fun to watch. Some memorable scenes included the opening battle with the barbarians of Germania, The first colleseum battle in Rome, the tiger fight, Maximus' getaway, and the climatical concluding battle between Maximus and Commodus.
Overall the film is unflawed. Bound to give you chills, Gladiator is the story of betrayal, lost love, revenge, and loyalty. As you know gladiator won multiple oscars at the 2000 Academy awards inclusing best picture and actor, Joaquin recieved only a nod. PLease, if you have not yet seen Gladiator, rent it, NOW! even if you care less for the genre Gladiator is sure to deliver
79 "What we do in life echoes in eternity."
It is strange that Ridley Scott's "Gladiator" is the one film he has directed that was honored with the Academy Award for Best Picture. It is strange because of all the films he has made, "Gladiator" is easily one of his more mediocre efforts. Hopefully, future film-historians will not consider this the apex of his noteworthy career.
A general named Maximus (Russell Crowe) is a favorite of dying emperor Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris). After he spectacularly triumphs in a vital military campaign, Marcus names him protector of Rome. But the general is betrayed and left for dead by Marcus' son, Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), after he learns his father has decided to not bestow upon him the mantle of leadership. Maximus, however, manages to escape his executioners and winds up becoming a gladiator in North Africa. Under the mentorship of Proximo (Oliver Reed), Maximus fights his way up the competitive ranks and becomes a beloved figure among the public. His celebrity soon brings him into contact with Commodus and gives the wronged warrior an opportunity for revenge.
"Gladiator" is a mixed bag from start to finish. Every positive to the film is muted by a negative. The action sequence that opens the film is good but the gladiatorial battles that follow are average. The special effects work done with Oliver Reed's stand-in is impressive but the special effects work done with the computer-generated tiger is horrible. Even the acting is uneven. Crowe, Harris, and Reed are fine but Phoenix and Connie Nielsen turn in weaker efforts. Well, a lot of directors usually produce at least one less-than-inspired work sometime in their career and "Gladiator" is clearly Scott's creative hiccup. Do yourself a favor and check out his more noteworthy works like "Alien" (1979), "Thelma and Louise" (1991), and "Black Hawk Down" (2001) to gain a better appreciation for the man's talents.
80 A Modern Classic!
This film belongs purely and entirely to Russell Crowe who is just magnetic to watch in it. I came to this film a bit dubious, mainly because of all the things I'd heard about Mr Crowe as a man. After this film I came out respecting him a great deal as an actor. His character is calm and quiet, which merely hints at the explosive power of physicality and emotion which is revealed.
The script it's self isn't great, granted, but the editing, scene contruction is faultless. Ridley Scott (the director) has created a whole world here.
Supporting, Phoenix and Reed are both great. Phoenix has wonderful, quiet intensity, and when he finally shouts and screams, it is all the more powerful. Reed plays his role just the right side of camp, and pulls off his final role with such dignity. His final role is made all the more moving because sadly it was his last.
In all, a great film, the DVD extras, for a change, are also great.
81 Russel Crowe rules in this movie. . .Story great as well!
Russel Crowe lights up the screen in this epic tale of freedom, love, and courage. It begins with Crowe's character, Maximus, as the masterful general of the roman army, under emperor Marcus Aurilious. He is looked upon as a second son to the emperor, even first ahead of Marcus' blood son, Commodus, who is played brilliantly by Joaquin Phoenix.
When Commodus learns that his father wishes for Maximus to be the next emperor over him, he murders his father before the word can get out, not knowing that Maximus had been told that he was to be emperor, and by Marcus Aurilious himself.
So Commodus secretly orders for Maximus to be put to death, getting rid of any threat to his heir to the throne. And along with that, he has Maximus' wife and son put to death. But Maximus, the skilled fighter that he is, escapes and when finding his family dead he wanders off into the desert and passes out. It is then that he is found and sold into slavery, now as a mighty gladiator.
While in the mighty arena, he begins to plot when he can escape back to his faithful army and seek venegace upon Commodus, and make Rome the way Marcus Aurilious wanted it to be. And when he wins the crowd, and nearly all of Rome, it looks like his time may soon come.
Believe me, my desciption cannot even start to hit the mighty surface of this great movie. You have to see it for yourself. Believe me, the fighting, although sometimes gorey, is wonderfully done, as are the special effects. And this might be one of the top three movies that ever had such great acting by EVERY character. Usually every movie has at least one weak link, but this movie has none. Even Commodus' ten year old nephew has better acting than some people.
This is a great movie, and I suggest you get it ASAP. It will not only keep you in suspense, it will not only thrill you, it will not only keep you in three hours of delight, but it will really find a place in your heart as a wonderfully touching film.
P.S. the soundtrack, in it's spooky kind of tone, is very well done
82 ummm........
personally i think it's boring. but i gave it 2 stars anywayzzz. cuz some parts of it was actually pretty awesome. but i was just kinda half asleep when i was watchin' it.
83 Gladiator
I was very impressed by Ridley Scott's truly magnificent depiction of his vision for the film. One can nitpick all sorts of details in the film as historically inaccurate etc., but if those details were rendered more accurately they would often actually interfere by being misinterpreted by modern audiences. Richard Harris portrays the philosophical Emperor Marcus Aurelius very, very well; his character meshes almost perfectly with the thoughts written down in the real Marcus' excellent _Meditations_ well enough to be uncanny. (The sole exception is essential for the film's plot.)
Oliver Reed is also excellent as the gritty, wizened gladiator camp operator Proximo.
Russell Crowe brings great force of character to Maximus, a very high-ranking Roman general with long-standing connections at the very top of the food chain so to speak, who also remains down-to-earth and sensitive enough to be personally admired by his troops. He brings that combination of sensitivity, intelligence and able willingness to bring on extreme yet controlled force (simply and very effectively of emotion at times) to his scenes throughout th
