Wolff rating: GOOD
Plot summary: Roman general finds himself torn between returning home to his farm or protecting the empire from the corrupt young Emperor.
Biased, pithy comments: Despite great effort to recreate ancient Rome and its ways accurately, Scott's ethereal touch makes Rome largely a science fiction set for an epic drama rather than a living, breathing city. That in mind, this is an absorbing costume drama that every now and then ponders the meaning of fame and power, but mostly occupies itself with the churning plot and fantastic visuals. I'm not sure I learned anything, but who cares---absorbing blockbuster entertainment with impossibly manly men in nifty armor. Can't go wrong.
Other Notes: History? We don't need no stinkin' history. Uh, the Romans never did pacify those pesky Germans, despite this movie's implied claim to the contrary. And, um, the Senate was never exactly a force for social justice. Perhaps Scott meant Crowe to be Sulla, who marched on Rome during the end of the Republic, using his army to settle things down, execute a few wrongdoers (OK, a lot of wrongdoers), re-establish the constitution, and then retire. Unfortunately, Sulla was 200 years earlier and wasn't a gladiator. Oh, well. Be sure you also catch ``Spartacus'' while you're in your sword-n-sandal mood.
How many times I have seen it: x1
Starring: Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen, Oliver Reed.
Directed by: Ridley Scott