Totally engrossing ...

Rating: 10/10 (21 May 2000)

Just came from the movie expecting a good story. Instead got a great story. The film never gave you a moments peace but moved relentlessly toward the ending. The landscape scenes (regardless of how they are created) are breathtaking. It is a story of war between armies and individuals. A surprisingly good job is done on filling in personalities and motivation without bringing the story to a halt. I came away with two overall observations.
While watching I kept thinking of other films. Try Viva Zapata or Rollerball for similar plot lines. I also got the impression Rome might have dissolved over sport at the coliseum and there were many parallels between Rome and the USA at present.
But, the important person to watch is Russell Crowe. Mel Gibson broke in with action films like Mad Max and evolved into a very entertaining actor. Crowe is well on his way in the same direction.
Academy Award time should have this film in the running for more than one category.