What a movie! Gladiator is a film that has it all! Stellar acting, top notch writing, incredible directing, exceptional costume designs, perfect art direction, gorgeous cinematography, and unique visual effects. I fell in love with this film the first time I watched it! The plot follows General Maximus Decimus Meridius (Russell Crowe in his amazing Oscar winning performance), who has been betrayed by Commodus (a wonderful Joaquin Phoenix giving evil vibes), and is stripped of his ranking, loses his wife and son, and is sold to slavery to Proximo (The late Oliver Reed). Proximo has Maximus and a group of slaves turn into gladiators to fight to the death, in hope to make a profit. Maximus however proves himself to be victorious and rises through the ranks of each gladiator fight until he gets his revenge against Commodus.
Gladiator is one of those rare epic films you will want to watch over and over again. The visuals look so realistic I felt like I was going to be in Ancient Rome. Every actor gives it all. Crowe delivers a very emotional and strong performance. Connie Nielsen, who plays Commodusโ sister Lucilla, gives a lot of depth to the character. Phoenix gives off creepy vibes like he did in Joker. This movie shows why Phoenix is one of the greatest actors living today. Reed is impactful in his final film role as Proximo. The art direction and costumes are unlike anything I have seen before. It made me wish to go to a Halloween party dressing up as a gladiator.
Gladiator is a movie youโll never forget. I love this movie so much with all my heart. I actually plan on watching the extended version soon and Iโll watch the theatrical version again after that. I just really love this movie!! Go Maximus!!