The title of my review is transcribed from the film itself, which is quoted by Russell Crowe in the arena to the spectators and the answer to this question is a resounding YES, WE ARE ENTERTAINED!!!
Gladiator give new meaning to the oft-quoted Shakespeare line: ’’Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears.’’ And arms. And legs. And Heads.
The body parts certainly fly in this glossy sword and sandal epic. Harking back to the era of big bravura Hollywood spectacle, if in scope if not tone, Gladiator became blockbuster of 2000, gave director Ridley Scott his biggest hit since ALIEN, and made Russell Crowe a star.
In the role that cemented what many had predicted for years, i.e., Russell Crowe’s emergence of a mega-star, Crowe commands every single frame he is in. It is also an open secret in Hollywood that Director Ridley Scott is one of the five best ’’shooters’’ in the industry, and so the much-anticipated combination of this fiery pair comes off like gangbusters. Though all admit to some off-camera fireworks as well, this only seems to add to the potency of the film. Gladiator is the kind of movie filled with big emotions, high melodrama and epic battle scenes, so the match of Scott’s aggressive style and Crowe’s ferocious intensity is heaven sent.
But more than just a blood and guts show (in fact, considering the subject matter, the film is more restrained than most have given it credit for), Gladiator also successfully balances themes and emotions that could have easily turned into camp. Drama, revenge, romance, betrayal, even perversity, this is the Rome many have longed to finally see portrayed on the screen, brought to life here with the help of generally impressive CGI trickery. Though clocking in at nearly 2 and 1/2 hours, Gladiator whizzes by, with a thrilling plot that also serves as a stunning travelogue of Rome and features some way-cool battle scenes.
As with all Ridley Scott movies, this one also has some breathtaking stunning visuals rich in natural colors. It is naturally beautiful photography.
Visual effects enhance the story well. Especially the arena and the Rome sequences will take to a ride in Roman era.
Sound of the movie is truly outstanding. The opening battle scene is certainly an example of that as arrows seem to fly thoroughout the theater and fires explode right in front of you. Every sound effect, down to the raw clank of swords is excellently recorded. The cheering of the crowds fills the whole auditorium, putting the viewer in the middle of it.
Score by Hans Zimmer is emotional and appropriate, adding greatly to scenes both subtle and powerful.
Production design is terrific.
All in all, this Gladiator wins the crowd!