Oliver Reed died before finishing the movie Crowe without doubt carries this film. He has the physical presence to make the action scenes convincing, and the requisite acting skills to convey his character's inner emotional life. Some US observers have seen the film as an allegory where ancient Rome represents contemporary America, and an imperial power about to implode. But the basic verdict is that Ridley Scott defied the odds and delivered a Roman epic that actually works. The outcome could have been different, reviving an old-fashioned genre was an endeavour fraught with peril that could have looked silly.
Much credit has to go to the strong cast.
Joaquin Phoenix is remarkable as Commodus, Connie Nielsen will definitely make a name for herself as Lucilla. The performances of two screen veterans, Richard Harris as Emperor Aurelius, and the late Oliver Reed, in his final role as Proximo, are both memorable.