A truly magnificent film

Rating: 10/10 (26 May 2000)

I didn't make any comments until I saw this film twice as I wanted to be sure I wasn't just overwhelmed on first viewing. But the second time confirmed my feelings - this is a wonderful film.
To those who don't think Gladiator is an epic - I'd almost agree. It is really a very personal story - that of Maximus and his desire for vengeance against the Emperor Commodus. The grand scope and effects in the film are really there just to underline this fact. They do this very well - the opening battle scene is huge and the scenes in the arena are wonderful (but if you can't stomach blood - don't go!). The scale of the film is epic with an excellent recreation of 'the Glory that was Rome'.
The casting was generally good - concentrating especially on classically trained Brits in supporting roles. But the real focus of the film IS Russell Crowe as Maximus. He is on screen for most of the film and I can't imagine anyone else playing the role - he is the soul of the film and if he hadn't done such a good job the film would have been a disaster. He portrays Maximus' grief and rage superbly - in words, looks and gestures (I don't think I've ever seen anyone act so much with their eyes before...) You will not believe how menacing the line 'I will win the crowd' can be until you hear it.
This should be the role that finally gets Crowe the recognition he deserves. He should have had Best Supporting Actor for LA Confidential, the Best Actor this year was a very tough category. Next year there shouldn't even be a contest - I don't think that anyone will dominate a film as much.