Gladiator
During the ruling of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, his most trusted General is Maximus Decimus Meridius. Aurelius wants Meridius to rule after his death, upsetting his son Commodus.
Commodus then murders Aurelius, blames it on Meridius – and then murders Maximus’ family. Following this, Maximus finds himself sold into slavery – as a Gladiator – soon becoming one of the most prized fighters in the history of the games. He must now fight for his freedom, which can only be given by the new Emperor… Commodus.
Direction
Breathtaking direction from Ridley Scott, who opens the film with one of the best ‘opening battles’ in cinema history (there are one or two that outshine it that I have yet to write a review on).
His quick cuts, although a little chaotic at times – are very well done – as well as some shots being in hyperspeed to increase the ferocity of what is occurring on screen.
It also includes some very clever CGI at times, especially in regards to Oliver Reed – who has several scenes made up with this technology due to his sudden death during production of the film.
Even at 2hrs and 30 minutes, I felt short changed – and left wanting more.
Cast/Characters
Crowe gives what is arguably his career best performance, and still his only Oscar win to date. He is able to hold his own among cinema greats such as Oliver Reed, Richard Harris. He is both charismatic and confident in his performance. One nit pick was he struggled with keeping his ‘accent’ correct, and I heard his native New Zealand come through on more than one occasion.
Joaquin Phoenix gives an amazing performance as Commodus, also giving one of the best performances of his career. He scored his first Oscar nod for this, and seeing what he puts into the role I fully believe he deserved it.
Secondary cast members include the likes of; Richard Harris as Aurelius, Oliver Reed as Proximo – the freed Gladiator and now gladiator trainer, Connie Nielsen as Lucilla, Commodus’ sister
Screenplay/Setting/Themes
One of the primary theme of the film is family. Maximus’ actions are a reflection of what happens to his family (they are murdered), and Commodus’ actions are a reflection of his too (being shunned by his father). They both take different paths.
Revenge and honour are others, Maximus wants revenge for what happened to his family – and Commodus wants to honour his (but fails).
I loved the setting of ancient Rome, and the set designs were some of the best there has been on film. Once again the CGI was superb, and faultless.
The entire narrative arc was well written, and easy enough to follow. Sensational from start to finish.
Score/Soundtrack
The score by the legendary Hanz Zimmer is simply amazing as per usual.
Overall
A winner of 5 Oscars, this film started off the ‘naughties’ showing what cinema should be. While it is not the best film I have ever seen, it is still an extraordinary feat of film making. Including well written characters, beautiful set designs just to name a few – this is near perfect.
5/5
If you’re able to, please “buy me a coffee”