An Amazing Epic!

Rating: 10/10 (12 May 2004)

Ridley Scott demonstrated his excellent directorial skills in this epic movie. Opening with a wonderfully choreographed battle scene, Scott manages to integrate the personal strife of Maximus with the exciting action sequences, all set with the political backdrop of late-Empire Rome.

Of course, when talking about Gladiator, one cannot ignore the powerful performance of Russell Crowe as General Maximus - 'Gladiator'. His icy stare, bold delivery, and convincing stunts and fight sequences made him a deserving winner of the Oscar in 2000. Crowe is well-contrasted in the movie by Joaquin Phoenix as the ruthless Emperor, longing to expand his own glory, while ignoring the needs of Rome, and the wishes of his father.

One aspect of the movie that is less publicized is the musical score. Hans Zimmer did an excellent job putting together a score that captures the emotions of the movie and fitting with the historical background.

My problems with the movie? Really only one: Maximus is too perfect. Is that a reason to dislike the movie? Not at all. Just being nitpicky really. To me, Gladiator had all the right tools and made the most of them, and that is why I think it is one of the top movies!