Vivid action enthralls and repels in bloody combat

Rating: 8/10 (15 January 2001)

Severed heads roll across the screen, blood spurts from torn torsos and the clash of steel swords keep the action going in a frenzy of gladiatorial combat. Film buffs who like plenty of action will find it all here and will especially admire the courage and determination of the greatest of all the gladiators, Maximus, a general who brings glory to Rome when he fights and wins the battle against Germania. Russell Crowe who plays Maximus wields a mighty sword against terrible odds. Maximus through his agility and experience and working to a plan is able to decimate his attackers however many surround him When the dying Caesar promises that the General Maximus should take over the control of Rome, the choice of candidate is not popular with Caesar's son who promptly sets about the slaughter of his wife and little son. Russell Crowe shines as an actor in the scene where he discovers the body of his wife hanging from a tree. This is a scene filled with emotion and heart-break. The remainder of the story concerns the avenging of this cruel deed. Those who dislike the sight of blood will have to close heir eyes many times during this film. The arena scenes are extremely well done on a broad canvas with sweeping views of blood-hungry spectators screaming "Maximus! Maximus!..." The supporting actors give very creditable performances as they get caught up in the intrigue and dirty tricks department of imperial Rome, but all eyes of course are on Russell Crowe as the sweaty gladiator, man of courage, man of action, hoping, as we all hope that good will triumph over evil.