555K views · 3.7K reactions | Behind The Opening Battle Scene in "Gladiator" (2000) | War History Online | Facebook

Gladiator | Behind-The-Scenes The screenplay, initially written by Franzoni, was inspired by the 1958 Daniel P. Mannixnovel Those About to Die. The script was acquired by DreamWorks Pictures, and Scott signed on to direct the film. Principal photography began in January 1999 and wrapped in May of that year. Production was complicated by the script being rewritten multiple times and by the death of Oliver Reed before production was finished. Before Russell Crowe was cast as Maximus, several other

“Gladiator” (2000) Russell Crowe delivered a masterclass in not-overacting as Maximus Decimus Meridius. His intense physical presence and contained but raw emotional range brought the character to life, making us feel every bit of his journey from betrayed general to vengeful gladiator. His dedication to the role was evident in the fierce combat scenes, which he trained hard for, adding a gritty realism to the film. His performance was also a masterclass in blending toughness with vulnerability,