Absorbing, but sadly flawed

Rating: Null/10 (5 May 2000)

I found the movie a totally absorbing experience; the impact of Ridley Scott's direction was masterful and yet I left the cinema sadly unsatisfied-as if I instinctively felt that the genius-direction had passed over Gladiator but had not rested, leaving the product more commercial than great.
Professionally I know a reasonable amount about the period of Roman history and excepting a few parts where cinematic license was indulged, the movie could be taken as accurate.
I don't think that any actor could do more justice to the lead role than Russell Crowe; his brooding presence matches the enormity of the script's inevitable outcome.
The film is definitely worth watching.