Superb cinematography, breathtaking stunts & excellent performances particularly Russell Crowe.

Rating: Null/10 (16 June 2000)

Gladiator is one of those rareties in Hollywood these days that transcends the boundaries of commercial and independent films. It is a film that is undoubtedly a blockbuster but is so well acted and directed that it simply cannot be categorised as one.
The most obviously appealing feature of the film are the breathtaking action sequences especially those in the collosieum. it can be argued that they are simply too fast but the speed of the stunts actually adds to the ferocity of the gladitorial fight scenes.
What separates the film however from most of its inferior contemporaries, such as Rob Roy & Braveheart is great acting and direction. Russell Crowe stands tall not merely as a Gladiator but also as an actor with great screen presence and charisma. It is simply the culmination of a series of fine performances following on from L.A. confidential & The Insider. On this occasion it is sincerely hoped that that his achievements will finally be rewarded with an Oscar at the next Academy Awards. The surprise bonus of the film is Joaquin Phoenix however who makes a rather good villain in a departure from his standard bit part roles in films like 8mm.
The final postscript should be reserved for Ridley Scott, a particular favourite of mine. His direction is careful yet never slow and simply the latest in a long line of great films -remember The Bladerunner & Alien.