An action flick that took home five Oscars and was dubbed ‘one of the best films of a generation’ is on TV today.
Originally released in 2000, Gladiator will air on BBC Three tonight (December 29) at 9pm and is available to stream on iPlayer.
The Ridley Scott epic was recently revived for a sequel, Gladiator II, starring Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal, which has been widely praised. Now, viewers can revisit the film that started it all for free.
Starring Russell Crowe, the historical drama sees Roman General Maximus, after he is stripped of his position by the corrupt emperor who killed his family.
Reduced to slavery, Maximus seeks revenge for his family while fighting for survival as a gladiator.
Following its premiere, the film grossed a staggering $465.5 million worldwide and became the second highest-grossing film of 2000, just behind Mission: Impossible II.
The action drama was also a hit with critics and won five Academy Awards at the 2001 ceremony, including Best Actor for Crowe, Best Supporting Actor for Joaquin Phoenix, and Best Picture.
Joining the star-studded ensemble were Connie Nielsen and Derek Jacobi, who reprised their roles in the 2024 sequel.
Two decades after its release, fans are still singing Gladiator’s praises.
“One of the best films of a generation, it’s a bold claim, but Gladiator truly is that good. Every single element is perfect, the story is phenomenal, one to absorb you for the full running time,” an IMDB user reviewed.
Another echoed the praise, writing: “Seriously the best fantasy film of the modern era with great acting and [an] emotional rollercoaster all the way through. The soundtrack by Zimmer really propels this film.”
Hans Zimmer received an Oscar nomination for the epic’s score but did not win.
Yet another user penned: “20 years on, the first DVD I bought is still a barnstorming, thrilling ride. There’s so much to recommend this – Lisa Gerrard & Hans Zimmer’s iconic score, the canny casting of Joaquin Phoenix as a foil for Crowe; the realisation that I quote this film in everyday conversation far more than I thought I did.”
Referring to the film’s famous quote, another person joked: “As a matter of fact, Maximus, I am entertained.”
They added: “Gladiator is the best bread and circus. A moving and very entertaining action epic with Russel Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix at the top of their game.”
Gladiator airs tonight (December 29) on BBC Three at 9PM