Gladiator

Gladiator directed by Ridely Scott in 2ooo was in my opinion a really good film. The film is loosely based on real events which is obvious if you take the time to evaluate the main character Maximus Decimus Meridius, whom is a combination of historical figures such as Spartacus, Narcissus and others. Also some of the equiment such as weapons but more specificly armor was out of place due to the era in which the film took place. However despite these inaccuracy, the film was really good. Russell Crowe put on a great performance as the gladiator much in the likeness of Spartacus and Joaquin Phoenix was a great Commodus as he played a eerie, disturbing yet powerhungry Emperor. The film was long from what I remembered (being around three hours in length) yet there didn't seem to be any time that went to waste, each scene played a important part in the film. Also the music was engaging as it set the mood for ever scene as well as the action sequences being both very entertaining and dramatic. Never was there a action scene for action's sake which is both great for the story and becoming more rare as more films are created. It is a great revenge story which amounts to more than just revenge at the end of the film and to that of freedom, which is at the heart of the film. Freedom from being a slave (which is what a Gladiator is after all) and freedom from a dictator with the return of power to the people.