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Gladiator |
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Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nelson, Oliver Reed, Derek Jacobi |
| Length: 150 minutes | Director: Ridley Scott |
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A full scale Spartacus style epic from Hollywood with Russell Crowe as General Maximus, turned gladiator, and plenty of no expense spared realistic battle sequences. General Maximus is the leading warrior for emperor Marcus Aurelius. His successor, emperor Commodus (Phoenix) is furious at Maximus and condems him to death, while crucifying his wife and son. Maximus escapes his death sentence, and finds himself ending up in slavery. From there he is forced to become a gladiator. Building up a big reputation as a gladiator, he eventually makes it back to Rome, but has a debt to settle with the emperor. Russell Crowe pulls off a very powerful and convincing performance, and the action sequences combine modern special effects and realism with good old fashioned Ben Hur / Spartacus style story telling. It's all pure fiction (i.e. no historical accuracy), but from the opening battle sequence you know you're in for a wild ride. |