Best Movie in a Long Time

Rating: 10/10 (23 May 2000)

I find it extremely hard to believe that many critics voted this movie below an 8/10. "Gladiator" carried more presence, more power, and more energy onto the screen than any other movie in many years. All cinematic elements came together - the casting, the story, the setting, the costume, the score - everything.
Russel Crowe's inspiring portrayal of the noble general Maximus brought faith back into the art of film-making. Maximus was played with such conviction that it was very difficult to remember that this was just a movie. What made Maximus so captivating was not his aggressive role as a fighter, but his loyalty to his family and his genuine care for the goodness of Rome. Crowe brought to life the very human qualities that all people wish to achieve: honor, courage, valor, respect.
Crowe's on-screen nemesis, Joaquin Phoenix, also played his role as Commodus with an innate passion. Commodus was ingeniously portrayed as the evil, immoral emperor - the man for whom Maximus is to seek vengeance upon.
The other cast members, Connie Nielson as the emperor's sister Lucilla, Oliver Reed as the ex-gladiator turned entertainer Proximo, and Richard Harris as the all-powerful Marcus Aurelius , were all outstanding in bringing to life the emotions of this time period.
None of these actors could have achieved such on-screen genius without such an awe-inspiring and intriguing story. It has been a very long time since this genre has entered movie theaters, and "Gladiator" sure brought that history to life. One was only spell-bound to the experiences and events that the people of that era lived through. It is about time that a movie came along that shared this important piece of history with modern society, so that people today realize and appreciate the goodness of our current society.
The spectacular landscapes and sets also adds to the beauty and realism of the film. The background and Coliseum scenes were put on screen with such precision. The costumes were also appropriate to this time period. The score was also an element which added to the drama and powerful impact of the film.
Walking out of the theater I was nothing less than completely satisfied. My faith in movies was completely renewed with this movie. Gladiator stretches beyond the role of a conventional popcorn movie, for it is something that leaves the viewer with a new sense of inspiration and a new understanding of a monumental era in our history. Maximus' role also goes beyond the call of duty since it provides us with a new sense of how life should really be lived: with honor and courage.