Here's why I liked "Gladiator" . . .

Rating: 10/10 (30 December 2001)

I grew up in what is called a simpler time. Motion pictures then are considered milksop today because they didn't deal with "real life". I'm glad I'm not a kid today. They have had to deal with destructive drug use, vulgar sex, disgusting language, unredeemable violence, disease, rape, incest . . . name it, it is part of today's culture. And, it IS destructive. Motion pictures in the 40's and 50's left us with a set of values about how one should live our lives. They were idealized. They were about duty, honor, courage, justice, etc. and if they were about the opposite of those values, they reflected the consequences of a wasted life. Gladiator is "old-fashioned" movie-making. I liked it because it reminded me of my youth which was a great time to be young. But it ought to be an important movie also. Just imagine all the impressionable young minds glorying in the heroism of Maximus. I'm not a religious man but a picture like this makes me wish I were. I have a hard time believing that there are rewards in an after-life for a heroic life. That is why it is so important for our young people to have a valued childhood; so they can grow to be a valued adult. The rewards of a good life may only be realized in THIS life. Gladiator goes beyond our time but movies like that didn't harm me as a youngster; no more than the fantasy stories we grew up with. If the fantasy of an after-life is deemed destructive then I suggest you don't see the current Harry Hopper films; nor the Lord of the Rings or even It's a Wonderful Life. Actually there is a long list of films that may be milksop but I don't think there's enough of them, especially these days.
As for Russell Crowe being a "poor" actor, I think those critics will have to reevaluate their positions when they have seen "A Beautiful Mind". Russell just might win ANOTHER oscar.