Product: Gladiator [VHS] (2000)
Rating: 5.0
The Best Movie of 2000, Period
I didn't know what to expect when I went to see Gladiator in the theater. Spartacus? Braveheart invades Rome? No story and lots of blood? Well, I was right about the blood and wrong about everything else. Ridley Scott's epic vision of a wronged and enslaved Roman general, of political corruption, of revenge and honor is a prime example of what a good movie ought to be.Russel Crowe (L.A. Confidential, The Insider) plays Maximus, the Roman Empire's greatest general, who is betrayed by the dead emperor's son (played by the film's only flaw, Joaqin Phoenix) is first enslaved, then by becoming a gladiator he gradually works his way back to Rome to find his family murdered, which only throws salt on his wounds. The story of injustice righted is highlighted by spectacular action sequences that are extremely violent and realistic (which is what initially kept bringing people back to see the film in theaters) but the story is involving (thanks to Russel Crowe's brilliant performance) enough to warrant repeated viewings. All in all Gladiator is the best movie of 2000, period. Nothing released this year will match the beauty and grand scale of this film. So if you like good movies make sure you get your copy of this wonderful film. Expect plenty of Golden Globe and Academy Award nominations (and wins) for this film, for direction, acting, cinematography, and special effects no other film has delivered the goods in such a spectacular package this year.