Product: Gladiator [VHS] (2000)
Rating: 5.0
Spectacular Roman Saga
To begin with GLADIATOR directed by Ridley Scott adds yet another epic great to an already imressive rusume of hit movies from "THELMA & LOUISE", ALIEN, BLADE RUNNER, LEGEND, 1492 etc ... and so too with Gladiator does Scott & Co. involved triumphantly deliver the moviegoer the good's transporting us successfully to the first grand (sand,sandal & toga) tale for over some thirty years. Forced into slavery by the corrupt and incestous heir to the throne, Roman General Maximus (Crowe)becomes a gladiator. His prowess in the arena will eventually lead him to Rome, the Colosseum and a vengeful showdown with the new emperor (Phoenix). A captivating cinema going experience with first-rate acting performances by all cast, superbly suited each to their respective parts Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielson, Derek Jacobi, Oliver Reed, Richard Harris & of course Russell Crowe the star of the show brings total believability to his title role. A slick big-budget hollywood extravaganza at it's very best filled in with glorius cinematography and effects work, stirring musical score and effective screenplay populated with acting pool talent ensemble and in my opinion Ridley Scott's latest and best directorial effort to date. GLADIATOR is epic movie story-telling brought thrillingly into the 21st century by a film-master. Plays well on video but doesn't compare to seeing it on the big-screen. A MUST SEE !