This is a film which becomes more powerful the more you identify with the main character, Maximus (Russell Crowe) a general in the Roman army in the reign of Marcus Aurelius. Maximus is chosen to be the next emperor but the emperor's son (Joaquin Phoenix) learns of it and condemns Maximus and his family to death before he can be crowned. The general escapes but his family does not. He has been betrayed and seeks to right this wrong and this is how GLADIATOR picks up steam. He is thrown into the gladiator games under a different name and now moves a step closer to justice as he comes to Rome. There is a subtle kewl allusion to SPARTACUS when Maximus announces his name. A terrific ending shows the adored general (now recognized for who he truly is) meeting his enemy face to face. Some departures from historical accuracy but director Ridley Scott makes this story the one you'd rather believe. [5 stars]
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