Everybody has to love this movie

Rating: 10/10 (22 December 2008)

Yesterday I saw this masterpiece for the third time, but I was tremendously impressed again like I have ever been when I have watched it.
Maximus, a highly decorated commander of the Roman Legions and friend of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, wins the most important battle against the Teutons and is now looking forward to spend his evening of live with his wife and son in his homeland Spain, but Marcus Aurelius wants him to be his successor.
Commodus, Marcus' son, who recognized his father's plans, kills his father and appoints himself as the new Ceasar. Maximus, who is able to escape from the execution, ordered by Commodus, manages to come home, but his family is already killed by Roman troops.
Maximus now becomes a gladiator and after several wins he cut's his way to the Colosseum, where he meets his archenemy Commodus. He reveals his identity to Commodus and is now the idol of the people in contrast to Commodus who is hated by them.
Commodus knows he cannot murder Maximus, because that would make Maximus a martyr no more than to let him alive. The only possibility is a hand-to-hand fight against Maximus in the Colosseum. And of course Maximus wins, but is terribly hurt. In the last moments of his life he gives the power back to the Senate and dies in the arena so he is now reunited with his family.
The movie contains everything which a good monumental film needs, action scenes, intrigues and a heroic epic.
Russel Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix, two of the best Hollywood actors, have done an excellent job. Crowe has played the role of his life.
What makes this movie special is Maximus' live journey which is characterized of ups and downs. Everybody can identify himself with Maximus. Everyone shares the thrill with him that he kill the hated Commodus (excellentely played by Phoenix) and that he cares for justice. I think at the moment when he dies and meets his family in paradise everybody is moved to tears.
Also a great compliment to the director Ridley Scott.
It is simply a masterpiece at all points.