Gladiator (2000)

Narrative Breakdown of Gladiator

If you're into period dramas filled with heart-thumping action and topped with empire-shaking adventures, Gladiator is the film for you. It's got all the stuff you'd want in a heroic film. Think betrayal, revenge, and Roman philosophy all mixed into one pot. 

Still, trying to figure out if it's worthy of your movie night? Let's explore the plot in a little more detail (and don't worry, we won't spoil any juicy bits!).

Gladiator transports us back to the last few days of a Roman military campaign. Roman General Maximus Decimus Meridius (Russell Crowe) is the powerhouse of a man who leads the campaign.

Emperor Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris), the ruling leader,  is nearing the end of his reign. His firecracker son, Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), is next in line, and all hell breaks loose when he gets the throne. As soon as Commodus steps up and fills his father's shoes, Maximus ends up being stripped of his status. He gets thrown into the blood-soaked world of gladiator combat.

Fuelled by vengeance and defiance, Maximus manages to breeze through the rankings in the arena. It's not long before the empire starts recognising Maximus - not just as a warrior, but as a rebel. He soon gathers a following of gladiators, including Lucilla (Connie Nielsen) and Juba (Djimon Hounsou), who help him get justice.

What Makes Gladiator an Epic Movie

Gladiator has gone down in film history as one of the most epic period action and adventure movies of our time. You can't help but get a racing heart, kicks of adrenaline, and goosebumps when watching this gory, battle-fuelled spectacle.

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