One of the greatest films ever made.

Rating: 10/10 (6 August 2002)

Gladiator is a thrilling tale of a Roman general who must battle against all thinkable odds to avenge the death of his family and restore justice to the empire. Ridley Scott creates a magical, believable, and effortless picture of ancient Rome. The score is beautiful, and perfect for each scene we come across. Perhaps the best part of this film is the performance of Russel Crowe as Maximus, the lead character. Crowe creates a heroic yet human character who demands both attention and respect. Joaquin Phoenix is wonderful as the antagaonist, Commodus, and the rest of the roles fit in without err. Gladiator is one of the greatest films ever made. It entertains. It thrills. It terrifies. And, most importantly, it inspires everyone who sees it. Absolutely incredible film.