Sorry, Roger, Wrong On This One!

Rating: 10/10 (16 May 2000)

OK, Commodus ruled 12 years after the (natural) death of father Marcus Aurelius, and not for the year (or whatever) depicted in Gladiator. And, Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix ) may have been a more daunting foe for Maximus (Russell Crowe) in the ring, judging from what we know of his athletic prowess, even without the "advantage" of his having "insured" himself of victory (no spoiler). (In fact, a powerful wrestler strangled Commodus to death at the behest of Commodus' trusted advisors in 192). Doesn't matter. Doesn't matter. The opening scenes of Gladiator alone are worth the price of admission. How WERE the Romans able to conquer and control almost a quarter of the world's population? Take in the first 30 minutes of this film. Then you'll know. Ridley Scott has a genius for film making (which always begins with the visual). Reminds me of Kubrick. He knows how it must have been, or could be, or should be. So, you rearrange history a bit to create a first class story. So what? The script, the performances, the mood and tempo of action can't disappoint, unless you're so oriented to plots laced with video game inspired characters and disaster scenes that only a third century vintage Freddie Visits Mission Impossible will stir your senses. Sorry Roger, two point five? (I thought I'd never say this) you are dead wrong. This is a terrific two plus hours of first class entertainment.