Gladiator is a 2000 historical epic directed by Ridley Scott and starring Russel Crowe. Roman General Maximus Decimus Meridius, a hero of the Roman Empire is selected to be Regent by the dying Emperor Marcus Aurelius, with the intent of turning Rome back into a Republic. However, the Emperor’s ambitious son Commodus learns of this and impetuously murders his father, claiming the throne. Meridius suspects foul play and refuses to pledge loyalty to Commodus, who exiles him and sends tropps to kill his family. Meridius returns to his home in Spain to find his wife and son murdered and collapses in grief. He is picked up by a passing slave caravan, who believe him to be a deserter.
Meridius is taken to be a gladiator in Roman North Africa, where he wins every fight thanks to his superior skills and his desire for vengeance against Commodus. Eventually he and his fellows become good enough to travel to Rome and fight in the great Coliseum. There first match is a highly-unfair recreation of the Battle of Carthage. Despite this, Meridius is able to lead his team to victory, prompting Emperor Commodus to congratulate them on their performance. Meridius dramatically removes his helmet and swears revenge on Commodus, who would desperately like to have him killed but can’t as the crowd love him. Instead he arranges an old, unbeaten gladiator to return to kill Meridius in the arena. Meridius triumphs but spares the others life, earning him the name of “Maximus the Merciful.” After the match, Meridius gravely insults the Emperor Commodus but the Praetorian Guards allow him to leave, angering the Emperor. He challenges Meridius to a duel in the arena, but first he stabs Meridius in the side, weakening him. Despite this, Merididus is winning, and Commodus begs for assistance from the Praetorians, who refuse. Meridius kills Commodus before dying himself, his last works being a plea to return Rome to the Senate.
The film was a considerable success, both with critics and the box office, earning back it’s budget within three weeks. It won five Oscars (including Best Picture and Best Actor) and was nominated for seven more. The film is credited with helping revive interest in the historical epic genre.
Gladiator Pictures & Wallpapers
Here are some great Gladiator pictures and Gladiator desktop wallpapers. You can download any of these images to your computer by right-clicking on the picture you want and choosing "save image as". Once you've downloaded one of these Gladiator images you can use it as your wallpaper etc.
