A Spectacle worthy of classic Hollywood

Rating: 10/10 (14 June 2000)

Yes, my boyfriend complained that it was too much like Braveheart, but that's only on a superficial comparison. Wow, I can't begin to explain what a great film this was. It managed to captivate and excite the entire time. There was humor and great pathos and insane emperors and the noble warrior with a heart of gold. All the things that MIGHT have added up to a cheezy overblown Hollywood machine if the actors weren't so fabulous. Oliver Reed can be proud of his final performance, one of the best of his career. Finally Russell Crowe captures a starring role where he can let his fine acting talent shine while showcasing those gorgeous looks of his. And Joaquin Phoenix makes you both hate and feel a modicum of pity for the tortured and malicious young emperor. It's a flick that can appeal to guys and girls (if the girls can stomach the quick cuts of violence and gore) and DEFINITELY DEFINITELY go see it! the visuals alone of the Roman colosseum, the tigers, and the gladiating sequences are worth the admission.