Stunning, beautiful, heart-wrenching

Rating: 9/10 (11 July 2000)

This movie is nothing short of brilliant, simply brilliant. It is honest in every way. Russell Crowe is so natural as Maximus (as he is in every role he undertakes). Joaquin Phoenix was a dynamite casting choice, and unlike many movie villains, he was complex and had such a wonderful history behind his actions. The whole cast was MADE to act with each other. The casting choices were perfect.
The movie is magical because it so easily makes the audience believe its reality. True, the story itself may not be true but Rome was portrayed so wonderfully. Few movies (if any!) have been made that have been so believable in its atmosphere of the ancient, yet surprisingly advanced Rome (though its tastes for sex and violence might have been more than gruesome). However, Ridley Scott has toned down the gruesome aspect so that we can focus on the story at hand, which is moving and very enjoyable.
This has become the highlight of the movie industry for the summer, in my opinion. It has fast become one of my favorite movies! I have not done it justice here. It's definitely one to catch in the theatres.