Product: Gladiator [VHS] (2000)
Rating: 5.0
Best movie in a while!
This may have been the best movie of this summer's blockbuster pack. It may actually have been the best summer blockbuster in many years. Russell Crowe is absolutely amazing as Maximus, the wronged general looking for revenge, and Joaquin Phoenix is over the top as Commodus, the evil, patricidal Ceasar.But what stands out in this film is what you don't actually see. Though graphic, the battle scenes leave much of the violence implied (unlike 'Saving Private Ryan' which made me sick to my stomach). And that works very effectively. In the opening scene, we meet Maximus as he is about to lead his Legions into battle. The battle is exhilarating, yet not overly graphic. This sets the tone for the rest of the film. Now, I am not saying you should let small children watch it, but it is not as graphically violent as the subject matter might have dictated, and this is a compliment to director Ridley Scott. He is really the person who deserves the acclaim, as his signature is all over this incredible piece of film. The camera work and editing are excellently paced, and even though it runs well over 2 hours, you do not feel the time pass.I can not recommend this movie enough.