GLADIATOR REVIEW

Gladiator Review is here to provide a Gladiator Review.

Gladiator (2000) is a feature film starring Russell Crowe and directed by Ridley Scott. Gladiator is a modern version of what used to be called “sand and sandal epics” that were popular in the sixties. The film follows the heroic journey of Russell Crowe in the role of Maximus who was the favorite General of the Emperor. When The Emperors son discovers that Maximus is next in line to rule the throne, Commodus has his father assassinated and banishes Maximus. Maximus then becomes a Gladiator who rises to fame, and eventual revenge. The film is full of dynamic fight scenes and incredible special fx that bring Rome to life. At its core the film is a simple spectacle – putting on a show at all costs, even perhaps historical accuracy. The film looks great, but one must ask themselves… does an expensive image make a great movie?

To review the film one must take into account the other films that exist in the genre and see how Gladiator stacks up. Unfortunately, despite the technical wizardry, Gladiator fails to achieve the emotion complexity or the narrative power of Braveheart. Upon closer inspection Gladiator is simply a Sand and Sandals music video, with a thin narrative that drives a plot, but this is nothing new here.

If you enjoy modern filmmaking and technique then this movie is for you. If you are looking for something different, or perhaps the next Braveheart, you will have to keep looking. Of course many may disagree – this reviewer is at odds with even the Academy Awards, as Gladiator was awarded best picture honors in 2000.

Related Links:
Gladiator Rome
Gladiator Trailer