Gladiator

Gladiator is a spectacular epic about the power struggle in the Roman Empire round 180 AD. Unlike so many historical epics whose directors have paid more attention to the spectacle than to the efficacy of the story, Gladiator has not a single dull moment. Not even the numerous battle scenes feel unnecessary.

The ageing emperor Marcus Aurelius asks the victorious commander Maximus to restore the republic in Rome after his death because he does not trust his son Commodus, who verges on insanity. When Commodus hears of his father's plans, he kills him and orders the execution of Maximus and his family.

Maximus escapes, but not in time to save his family. Exhausted, wounded and robbed of everything but his life he is captured and sold to Proximo, an organizer of gladiator fight. When Commodus and Maximus meet next, it is in Coliseum.