The Gladiator

The Gladiator was filmed with such vivid scenery and costumes that watching it made you feel like you were actually within the Roman Empire. I was very fond of that aspect of it, the producers really made the scenery come to life. The costumes especially were very realistic, with the fancy wear of Commodus, to the gladiator apparel of Maximus. The story was also portrayed in a way that would come alive to the viewers. From the beginning, I was enthralled with Maximus's character, and wanted so badly for him to succeed. Commodus on the other hand creeped me out, and ignited a hatred in me for him. The only part of the movie that I really did not care for was the ending. I had anticipated Maximus becoming the emperor of Rome making for a cliche happy ending. This was not the case though as he died, both upsetting me and cheering me given that he ended up with his family at last.

The theme of The Gladiator would definitely be something along the lines of "never give up no matter what you go through." I think this is so because no matter what hurdles he had to overcome, Maximus was always on his toes ready to take them on. Even when his family perished, he did not let it bring him down, he knew he must fight to survive. When he had to face Commodus, who thought he was dead, at the Coliseum, Maximus bravely unmasked himself and remained calm. Maximus displayed great strength and compassion in everything he took part in.