"The Gladiator", set during the Roman Empire in 180 A.D, tells a powerful story of courage, determination, and revenge. Throughout this movie the main character, Maximus, is tested in countless ways, both physically and emotionally draining. But he stays strong, and the combination of his sheer willpower and determination that one has when striving for revenge, proves as a deadly one. .
In the beginning of the movie, the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius is aging quickly. He lets it be known that he doesn't want his own son, Commodus, being his successor, but instead wants a well-known Roman general, Maximus to rule. When Commodus gets word of his father's intentions, he immediately slaughters his father and plans to kill Maximus. When Maximus flees Rome, Commodus orders that his wife and children be murdered. Maximus is soon captured, forced into slavery, and bought by Proximo, a former gladiator who will become his owner as well as his mentor. Maximus starts vigorous training as a gladiator in the arena. His fame grows quickly, and he goes to Rome, concentrating on killing the new emperor Commodus for revenge for the murder of his family. Maximus realizes that the will of the people can be the one thing stronger then the power of the emperor, and he knows he will only achieve that power by becoming the greatest hero in Rome. This intense movie is filled with talented actors perfectly fit to play their role. Russell Crowe plays Maximus and Commodus is played by Joaquin Phoenix. Connie Nielsen plays the role of Lucilla, the sister of Emperor Commodus. Lucilla is an important character, since she conspires with Senator Gracchus, played by Derek Jacobi, to get rid of her brother. Oliver Reed plays Proximo, while Richard Harris is Emperor Marcus Aurelius.
This movie accurately portrayed many aspects of Roman life during the time period it took place in. Marcus Aurelius was rightly depicted as a ruler who was tired of war.
