Product: Gladiator [VHS] (2000)
Rating: 3.0
Good movie, but lacking...
I gave this movie 3 stars; only because I reserve 4 & 5 stars for movies that really blow me away like American Beauty or The Matrix. Gladiator was a generally good movie that could have been better. I saw two major problems: Action filming style and number of sentimental moments. The action scenes were shot at two close a range and in most of the battle scenes used blurring affects that detracted from the viewers immersement; outweighing any artsy motivation. Toward the middle and end of the movie more of the action was seen from a distance; but often cut from one strike to another making it hard to realize the choreographing. About the sentimental moments; the acting was wonderful and did pull on those heartstrings. My complaint is that there were just too many of those "Powerful" moments instead of building to a few main moments. Quick note: Scenery and costumes were excellent and gave you an idea of the "Glory of Rome" might have looked like. All in all, I'm glad I saw it and enjoyed it - but wish I had rented it and not bought it first.