Product: Gladiator [VHS] (2000)
Rating: 5.0
Simply the Best
I cannot say enough good things about this movie, it is without a doubt the finest film I have ever seen (sorry Citizen Kane). It is important for those who have not seen the film to understand that this isn't a kill them all type film. This film has a fantastic story, compelling characters, and a soundtrack that Mozart would be proud of. The music should have gotten the best supporting actor, because it completely captures the emotions of the characters, especially Maximus. The "earthy" theme that Hans describes in the bonus documentary on this DVD is what I refer to as the "victory" song. It is played when he is praying, but it also comes about when the group wins its first fight in Rome during the "Battle of Carthage" at a much higher tempo. Those that criticize the ending as being sad, I ask this question (warning, spoiler here) Why is is a sad ending? Maximus got to be with his family at the end of the movie, which was his goal at the beginning, he got what he wanted. There was an afterlife, therefore, there is no reason to be sad about it. It's a victory for him. This is a true epic, I could go on for days. Buy this DVD if you do not own it yet, it will be something to show future generations. (I still shed a tear at the end when they carry him, not because I am sad, but because of the respect and honor they give him. Honor- a word we in the modern world seem to have forgotten) Enough soapboxing, get the film!