Hailed as a hero should be, "Gladiator" is called by one reviewer "awe-inspiring storytelling on all levels." And, if not historically accurate, it's close enough.
It's the final days of Marcus Aurelius' reign, and the aging emperor selects the victorious Roman general Maximus (Russell Crowe) to succeed him instead of his son, the power-hungry Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix). This sits so poorly with Commodus that he kills his father and orders the death of Maximus.
Maximus had been torn between ruling the country and returning to his family before the matter was taken out of his hands. Now he escapes death only to return home and find his family has been slaughtered.
Then, through a turn of events, he is sold into slavery and is forced to become a gladiator. And what a gladiator he is — so good that his fame brings him face to face with his archenemy Commodus. One reviewer has said the story is "so good the audience will be jumping up in their seats, cheering the hero on."
The only real criticism of the film has arisen over director Ridley Scott's graphic gladiatorial matches, which are said to overshadow those in "Saving Private Ryan." "They are worse, and to no particular purpose," cautioned one reviewer.
The film has five producers, including Steven Spielberg, and is rated R for intense graphic combat.
It is playing at Market Square East.