Product: Gladiator [VHS] (2000)
Rating: 5.0
Gladiator is what a blockbuster should be!!
Gladiator chronicles the story of Maximus, a Roman general that serves Rome itself, and not merely the person holding the reins of the great empire. The story is an epic tale that reminds me of the great classic, Ben Hur. True, this movie, reminds me of the modern films, the Patriot and Braveheart, this one surpasses both of these in both story telling and action.While the scenes are at times a little bloody, it is done tastefully, and it does not remind me of some of the gore fests that I have seen. I feel that this story although not totally original, is a very compelling and stirs one's emotions. Maximus is a reluctant hero, and merely wants to be left alone, but his wrath is provoked by the son of one whom he trusted, and he is unjustly dishonored. Through valor and his own abilities, he survives as a gladiator until one day his skill and ability puts him in a position to gain both vengeance and an assured future for Rome.Masterfully directed by Ridley Scott and wonderful acting by those in the movie will make this a classic that will endure as has the classic that this reminds me of, Ben Hur. I would heartily recommend this to all except the most squeamish. This would be a great part of any DVD collection.