Gladiatorial coup de grace - moving and exciting

Rating: Null/10 (5 August 2010)

Despite it's historical inaccuracies Gladiator without a doubt deserves it's 5 Oscars. The story follows Maximus, a Roman general who's family is murdered after he is betrayed and left for dead. While the story echoes The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976), Gladiator's revenge theme is far more ambitious and poignant.
Meticulous portraying the social and political issues of the time, proved director Ridley Scott, utilising David Franzoni story and screenplay, single handily brings back the sword and sandal epic that prompted a flurry of copycat films.
The opening scene is astounding, the fights are incredibly choreographed, however, Gladiator is far from perfect, let down by a variety of CGI shots, the lack of grandeur that other epics have and several hollow palace scenes. That said, Lisa Gerrard and Hans Zimmer score is exciting, emotionally moving as much as the actor's performances.
Thankfully, Mel Gibson turned down the part of Maximus that Russell Crowe portrays with such conviction and energy. Even though it was Oliver Reed's last great performance and one of Richard Harris finest, as Marcus Aurelius, the new comers hold their own and are just as effective. Juaquin Phoenix. Connie Nielsen, Derek Jacobi and supporting actors are perfectly cast. Aside from the magnificent sets and locations to the cast credit it's the ability to render the viewers concern for these characters is what separates Gladiator from being an run of the mill flick.
It's no masterpiece but far from a gladiatorial coup de grace. Scott's compelling Gladiator is impressive, moving and exciting.