Gladiator is a masterpiece, every single frame of this movie is captivating, as Ridley Scott paints an epic story of a general who becomes a slave, a slave who becomes a gladiator, and a gladiator who defies a leader.
Its a brilliantly put together film which showcases the brutality of the Roman empire, where murder has become a common past-time, with blood-thirty crowds gathered in the hundreds to witness Gladiatorial battles deep in the heart of the Colosseum. The sets and set pieces are unbelievably good.
Every single actor in this film is perfect for their roles, Joaquin Pheonix is detestable as Commodus the false heir to Rome, who acquires the title only after an act of patricide. You feel the hate he has for Russel Crowe's Maximus, because Maximus possesses all the qualities he desperately envies. Maximus is a born leader and while a fearsome warrior and general is a sensitive, kind and compassionate man, who has the respect and admiration of all around him. Whereas Commodus is a vile immoral wretch. Russel Crowe gives the best performance of his career in this film.
Richard Harris is also phenomenal in his brief role as Commodus's father, haunted by battle, weary and reflective in his twilight years, awaiting death with solemn, contemplative, regret.
In closing, its one of the best films ever made.
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