I was entertained even 15 years later

Rating: 9/10 (31 May 2015)

Hard to believe Gladiator is 15 years old now, such a fantastic movie that will never go out of style. Super fun watching this again, it's just the classic sword & sandal flick, epic on all counts and the type of movie that stays with you for days afterwards. Admittedly the story was also a bit draggy in parts, its almost 3 hours long and at times I was confused as to where it was taking place Morocco? but the location issue is just me.
Russell Crowe is Oscar worthy as he embodies Maximus. Perfect as the strong and silent leader, the type of character you feel for and can't help but cheer along especially as he's squaring off against the awesomely crazy & creepy Joaquin Phoenix "You will love me and bear me a pure heir" -spoken to his sister. Phoenix was just amazing.
Of course the battle scenes are awesome; exciting, bloody and epic, starting in Germany with Russell as a Roman general leading his men into battle. He soon arouses the rage of the emperors jealous and bloodthirsty son when it becomes known that Maximus is to be the successor. A bit of murder happens then with Maximus finding himself a widower, beaten, enslaved and forced to become a gladiator. The final battle goes down at the Coliseum in Rome with an ending that I thought was perfect "Am I not merciful?"
Really beautiful music here too, and a top notch extended cast including a SOA sighting from one Tommy Flanagan. Yes Maximus, I was entertained. 4/14/15