Gladiator (2000)

Reviewed: 11.2006

Legendary general Maximus Decimus Meridius (Russell Crowe) has one thing on his mind-- get back to his wife and child. War has left nothing but a bad taste in the mouth of the general and he desires nothing but to return to his peaceful life in Spain, but Rome's fair, yet dying Emperor Marcus Aurelius has other plans. He wishes to bestow his title on Maximus over his cruel son, Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix). Understandably annoyed, Commodus takes drastic actions to save his title. Killing his father and setting Maximus up for the fall, Commodus succeeds in his quest for rule. Maximus, escaping his demise, forced to into exile and unable to save his family, gives up hope. As easy target for slave traders, Maximus is quickly sold to former gladiator Proximo (Oliver Reed). Maximus quickly rises to fame as 'The Spaniard' in the arena with his fast sword and indifferent attitude, despite his distaste of the blood-lusty sport. It's only when Maximus discovers he can exact the vengeance he swore for the death of his family, on the Emperor, that he rises to his celebrity title to get his chance to fight Commodus in the Arena.

Leading the powerful and intense cast, Russell Crowe is captivating as the general turned slave turned gladiator. The intensity of his role and roguish good looks pale when compared to the emotional depth found in his portrayal of Maximus. Alongside him, Joaquin Phoenix, as Commodus, the perverted, lusting, jealous son goes way beyond egotistical with his intensity. Commodus reaches the pinnacle of maniacal thanks to him. Connie Neilson, as Lucilla, tormented by loyalty to her corrupt brother and doing what's best for the empire, softens the edges of an this blockbuster film. Oliver Reed, Richard Harris, Derek Jacobi, and Djimon Hounsou all give strong, memorable performances as supporting players. Hounson, in a seemingly 'bit-part', is overwhelmingly inspiring as his role as Juba, Maximus' friend and gladiator.

The dream-like spell-binding cinematography is as strong a player in this film as the actors. The battle-scenes, while graphic, are tastefully so. Screenwriter, David Franzoni has done the toughest part, writing a script destined for greatness. Add director Ridley Scott to the mix and you've got epic story-telling. From the mesmerizing battle scenes and a script that reads like poetry to the lush costumes and settings, this colossal film is not only beautiful, magnificently complete. Whether it's the wheat-fields of the Afterlife or the the fields of Germania, the attention to detail, stunning at every angle. Then there's the soundtrack. A score truly is successful when the viewer can hear the score and evoke a film's imagery. Another fitting and epic score courtesy of Hans Zimmer.

While Gladiator may follow the 'formula', it's the collective elements that make this film a powerful tale, destined to 'echo in eternity'.