A solid Best Picture

Rating: 7/10 (2 March 2002)

For all of the awards and money that went to this movie, this movie is still not regarded very highly by the online movie community (usenet groups etc..).
There are several reasons for this. One is that it was in contention for Best Picture against some extremely well made movies : "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" ; "Traffic". These are some really incredible movies as well. All three of the movies are deserving of the Best Picture Award. The two losing movies have since become cult classics in their own right, with a very strong following.
Another reason that some have played it down is because it SO many Awards. The one that seemed to bother people the most was Russell Crowe's Best Actor Award. Many felt his role was simply physical, and not too difficult to portray.
These are valid points in their own right. However, I have viewed "Gladiator" many times on cable. It is practically on every other day. With these viewings, I have noticed that the film has a great amount of staying power. There are many great performances in this movie. Joaquin Phoenix's performance is his best without a doubt.
So many other elements (which it of course won awards for) will suck you into this movie again and again. I was never a fan of "Gladiator". Frankly, I liked "Traffic" better. However, I still find myself watching it when it is on - and every time I watch it there is something new that I like.
I believe in 5-10 years many people who believe "Gladiator" didn't deserve all of the awards it garnished will also realize that you have to view "Gladiator" for what it is : a gigantic epic with an enormous amount of elements to be appreciated after many viewings.