Ok, it's been out a while I know but I can't help talking about this film. The story revolves around a roman general by the name of Maximus, and is set around a time when most of Europe is now ruled by the Caesar. Trouble is the Caesar is not long for this world and his only heir is not much is the leadership department and so Maximus is asked to head a senate to rule Rome. Of course the Caesar's son is none too happy at having his birthright taken from him and kills his father, and sentences Maximus and his family to death. However, our hero survives and is bought by a gladiator trainer in Africa and fights his way in the arena back to Rome. Without giving too much away (bit late for that now), it's a bit like Braveheart in Italy for want of a better description. The whole idea of One man's actions' changing history has be toyed around by the Film Industry for years but oddly this film carries it off. Even the amazing special effects and brilliant computer graphics fail to make this film look "Hollywood cheap". There are plenty off touching moments and yes I admit, I may have shed a tear or two. There is some excellent camera work although sometimes the detail can be a bit overpowering and gory.

This film is, at time of writing, still in the cinemas in places and if you haven't still seen then do, because a TV screen won't do it justice.

A modern day classic.