The Gladiator: A Film for the Ages

The Gladiator: A Film for the Ages

By Navin

Are you feeling like watching an action movie? Or would you prefer to view a dramatic tearjerker? Well, the 2000 hit film Gladiator would fit both categories! This movie is directed by Ridley Scott, and stars Russell Crowe as Maximus, the hero. The movie is set in the time of the Roman Empire, and is a mixture of history and fiction. Marcus Aurelius, the dying emperor of Rome, wishes to hand power over to Maximus, who is his most trusted and capable general. Aurelius wants the senate to have more power in Rome, and he believes that his son, Commodus, would create a dictatorship. Maximus does not wish to get involved in politics and only wants to return home to his wife and son. However, Marcus Aurelius’ corrupt son seizes power for himself and spitefully orders the death of Maximus and his family. Though Maximus escapes his execution, he returns home to find that his wife and son did not. Grief stricken, he succumbs to his wounds and faints. Rome was, at the time, ridden with slavers, and Maximus is sold as a gladiator. From this moment onwards, Maximus’ only intent is to get revenge and fulfill the Emperor’s dying wishes – that Rome should become a republic. This powerful movie has received over 50 awards and 100 nominations. The engaging storyline will keep you on the edge of your seat, and the touching score composed by Hans Zimmer carries the film along. The only negative aspect of the movie would be the excessive bloodshed. It would have been as good, or even better, with less gore.