With "Ben Hur" and "Braveheart" who needs "Gladiator"!

Rating: Null/10 (15 May 2000)

I anxiously anticipated the new Ridley Scott film starring one of the most talented actors in the film arena today; Russel Crowe, only to be greatly disappointed. "Gladiator" is a compilation of "Braveheart" and "Ben -Hur", trying to capitalize on the same formula (in not even a subtle way) that worked so well for these two films. However, it is completely unsuccessful as it's main character is flat and one dimensional, it's plot full of holes and additionally, a great visual disappointment from the man who gave us "Alien" and "Blade Runner".
It seems obvious that Scott could not decide whether to make this film an action or character driven piece. Trying to copy the successful formula used in "Braveheart" was a waste of time. The audience was given no real emotional attachment to the film's protagonist, Maximus, played by Russel Crowe. Therefore, we don't really care where the plot takes him, making the fight scenes less effective despite clever editing and well choreographed maneuvers. We do not see the sincerity, or passion that so easily hooked us into Mel Gibson's Character, William Wallace, in "Braveheart". Instead, we see a one dimensional character whose demeanor remains constant whether he is winning, losing, fighting, or even about to die.
The plot follows that of "Braveheart" but also "Ben Hur" without the poise of Heston or the emotion that rocked a chariot race. It fails in it's attempt to be lumped into the category of a herioc epic.
The most worthwhile thing in this film, by far, was the performance of Joaqin Phoenix. As the evil Roman emporer he was both dark and vulnerable. His character was despicable but also left you pitying him, understanding his actions at times, cruel as they may be. This film should excel Phoenix's career and propel him into a wider range of roles, after all he was the best thing about the movie.