Product: Gladiator [VHS] (2000)
Rating: 5.0
Compelling action and drama
Gladiator is an admirable film not only for its intense, elaborate, and realistic action, but also for its powerful underlying statement regarding human nature. Although the combat sequences are riveting, Scott deftly delivers a profound message of anti-violence, and exposes the corrupt, barbaric nature that belied the outward civility of the Roman Empire. This film operates on several different levels, and does so effectively.And anyone who tells you that the story is completely devoid of historical accuracy certainly doesn't know his or her Roman history. The real Emperor Commodus did, in fact, participate in the games at the Coliseum. I have always believed that it is better to appear ignorant in silence than to speak and remove all doubt!