The most epic movie for years

Rating: 9/10 (5 June 2000)

Gladiator by Ridley Scott is easily the biggest and most dramatic movie since...oh, heck, it´s just GREAT. The story is straightforward and simple, but (as some folks wrongly thought) that´s nothing to complain about. The best stories are the most simple ones, and this one is about classic elements like friendship, betrayal and revenge. Granted, it´s a men´s movie. So if you don´t like it go see the new Julia Roberts comedy.
The Acting is just terrific. Crowe, who already was great in "L.A. Confidential" and "Virtuosity" is going to get an Oscar or i´ll never again enter a movie theatre. Phoenix is also terrific as his Nemesis who has some very human weaknesses. The supporting cast is also very good. It´s also nice to see Ridley Scott back in town.
The CGI Graphics are not always convincing; they look too artificial. Most impressive, however, are the battle scenes (did I hear someone say "Braveheart"? As another guy here pointed out, the battle scenes in "Braveheart" looked like a picnic, compared to "Gladiator". Nothing to add here.). The fight against the guy with the face mask, surrounded by tigers, is just breathtaking.
"Gladiator" is simply the best movie for some years (if you don´t count "Star Wars", which is beyond and above competition).
Go see it!