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The General who became a Slave.
The Slave who became a Gladiator.
The Gladiator who defied an Emperor.
This is my Favorite film of all time. Great Story, Great music and Fantastic casting.
What I think ?
Wonderful performance by Russell Crowe. I have seen a number of his performances, but this is his absolute best. I believe it has something to do with his character which is very similar to that of 'Maximus the General and the Protector of Rome'. A risk taker who realizes his dream. A determined and disciplined General who wins the hearts of the soldiers who fought with him and also that of the Mob. A general who knows the true meaning of life is to go home where love is and not crave for power which does not last. Russell is a home loving person, a risk taker who knows what he wants and attains it. It is no wonder he played the part of Maximus so well. Maximus believed in Rome and he worked hard for it as its General. At the end of the film, he realized his dream of being with his family in the farm in Elysium.
Maximus showed me the meaning of life. It is not about pursuing power which he could have gotten by following the Emperor's wish. He wanted to go back to his farm, wife and son. He said, "Whisper to them that I only live to hold them again, for all else is Dust and Air'. It is love that gives life its meaning. I can tell that Maximus truly loved his family and was hoping to return home one day.
During the Battle scene, Maximus said to his army, "What we do in Life, Echoes in Eternity." How true. We have often heard the saying that " We are not remembered by the things we say but by the things we do." This shows us the importance of our actions on people through the references they form in their minds.
Joaquin Phoenix who played Commodus the Emperor of Rome also gave a remarkable performance. I watched every single detail of his behavior at the battle of the Carnage. His expressions truly reflected that of a blood thirsty Emperor.
What I would like to see ?
I was so inspired by the meaning the film that I tried to remember parts of the script. I even have two sound tracks of the film which I listen to everyday.
Now I only wish I could meet Russell in person. An admirable character that I believe its more than just good looks. I do believe the reason why he did so well in this Film is because it is HIM.
Russell, "I will see you again. But not yet, not yet".
