BBC to remove one of the best historical films ever made in days
UK viewers have until August 2 to stream the acclaimed historical epic Gladiator on BBC's iPlayer service before it is taken down.
Since its debut in 2000, Gladiator has been hailed as a cinematic milestone, earning plaudits for its accurate depiction of ancient Rome and its compelling blend of narrative depth and thrilling spectacle.
The film boasts an impressive 80% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and remains a standout entry in both the sword-and-sandal genre and director Ridley Scott's oeuvre.
Set during the zenith of the Roman Empire, Gladiator follows Maximus Decimus Meridius (Russell Crowe), a revered Roman general who is loyal to Emperor Marcus Aurelius. After a significant victory against Germanic tribes, Maximus yearns for home.
However, Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), the emperor's envious son, murders his father and takes power. Betrayed and sentenced to death, Maximus manages to escape only to find his family murdered under Commodus' command, reports the Express.
Sold into slavery and thrust into the harsh world of gladiatorial combat, Maximus uses his military prowess to ascend the ranks of the arena fighters.
His journey morphs into one not just of survival but of retribution - resolute to avenge his family and restore dignity to Rome by confronting Commodus from within the Colosseum's heart.
The film boasts an impressive cast with Russell Crowe delivering an Oscar-winning performance as Maximus, and Joaquin Phoenix's turn as Commodus marking him as a top Hollywood actor. The supporting cast includes Connie Nielsen as Lucilla, Richard Harris as Marcus Aurelius, Derek Jacobi as Senator Gracchus, Djimon Hounsou as Juba, and Oliver Reed in his last screen role as Proximo.
Under Ridley Scott's expert direction, John Mathieson's cinematography, and the powerful score by Hans Zimmer and Lisa Gerrard, the film creates a captivating atmosphere that whisks audiences back to the ancient world.
Gladiator clinched five Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Crowe, and is hailed for rekindling interest in Roman history in popular culture, influencing everything from TV dramas to video games set in similar times.
A Rotten Tomatoes reviewer encapsulates the sentiment: "How can you not be entertained? ! Ridley Scott's sword-and-sandal epic is the catalyst that led to a majority of modern men's obsession with the Roman Empire. The timeless, spectacular action combined with a simple yet poignant story makes this one of the prime examples of a blockbuster film at its best."
With Gladiator's departure from BBC iPlayer looming at midnight on August 2, UK viewers have mere days left to enjoy this widely acclaimed cinematic masterpiece from the comfort of their homes.
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