A wonderful adaption to a traditional storyline from the inspiring Scott and Crowe

Rating: 10/10 (28 May 2000)

The story revolves around Maximus, a noble leader who is chosen by Marcus Aurelius himself to take his place as commander in favour of his dysfunctional son Commodus. Commodus then murders his father and sends Maximus to be executed. Maximus survives the forthcoming execution and flees in search for his family - who he finds hung in his home town. He then rides forth to become a gladiator to avenge the sinister Commodus. There are some fantastic battle scenes but what makes this better from all the CGI'd sci-fi films is content and depth. Commodus loves his sister for more than just being a sister (reminiscent of Star Wars) and some of the minor characters are executed with precision. Russell Crowe was believable, realistic, well hard and quite frankly a master in his role of Maximus, Joaquin Phoenix lacked edge but delivered as the sinister Commodus and the late Oliver Reed played a final memorable performance as Maximus' trainer. Ridley Scott's direction is awesome. This movie shows what CGI effects should be used for. Although gory, this is not disturbing - this is deep and portrays a powerful and awe-inspiring message. Best movie of year 2000 so far.