It could have been more exciting to see Commodus as a gladiator. However, it portrays the character as a crazed villain rather than an emotional but dangerous and calculated foe. Commodus as a character is very much like the late Emperor Charles Manson - both were extremely charismatic leaders who aroused great hatred and fear within their own people as well as others. Both were self-proclaimed gods who committed unspeakable acts of violence to fulfill their desires. Manson's desire was for love and adoration while Commodus' desire was for power over everyone. They both failed to realize that no one can live up to those expectations. Commodus was only able to bring himself pain and misery while Manson died a lonely death in prison. Some might say that Hitler is also a villain but he created a world class military machine before he came to power and ruled over Germany with an iron fist. He truly transformed Germany into a powerful nation once again making him a hero to some. Commodus did not have this opportunity because he was under the control of his father who already had these powers. Also, Commodus was not even born when his father killed his mother so he would never know her or care about anyone other than himself. This shows that he had no interest in loving relationships or helping others achieve happiness.