A true epic in every sense (Gladiator (DVD))

Member Name: andyoz

Product:	Gladiator (DVD)
Date:	01/06/09 (19 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Breath taking scenes, powerful acting

Disadvantages: Don't think there are any

Well this is probably my all time favorite film! It came out back in 2000 and I went to the cinema three times to watch it! Now that is something I never do! But on the big screen it was just that good! It caused massive hype, won several awards and was a massive box office smash for director Ridley Scott. So what was, or is, so good about Gladiator?

The story is set back in ancient Rome. Maximus (played by Russell Crowe) is a Roman general. When the Roman Emporer dies the Emporer's son Commodus wants this general out of the picture. So Maximus is banished, well sort of, you will have to watch the movie! Anyway then it follows the story of how Maximus seeks revenge and brings the people of Rome together.

There is very little actual Dialogue in the film. But when there is, wow is it powerful. My favorite scene is when Maximus comes face to face with Commodus for the first time. This little bit of dialogue makes the film: "My name is Maximus Desmus Maridius. Commander of the armies of the north. General of the Felix legions. Loyal servant of the true emperor, Marcus Aurelius. Father to a murdered son, husband to a murdered wife - And I will have my vengeance, in this life or the next." Powerful stuff!!

There are plenty of great performances throughout the film. Joaquin Phoenix is a great tyrant. And Oliver Reed plays a wonderful part, he of course died in the making of this film which really makes you think about the part he plays.

The soundtrack is breath taking. I actually bought it, which is another thing I just never do. Some really moving songs on there that will stir your soul!

This film is rated 15 and there is a lot of violence in it. Other than that though there is no real bad language to speak of or anything else that should cause offence. It runs from the best part of 155 minutes. A long film but it does not drag, there is always something there to keep you interested and I could have easily sat there for longer!

The DVD itself has all the features you would expect. Things like trailers, commentary, a making of documentary and plenty of other things to go at!

Overall this is one of the best films around. There is so much action involved and the story is a really moving one. I would have to say 10/10!

Summary: All round wonderful film