Gladiator

A Roman general (Russell Crowe) gets screwed by the system and winds up fighting for his life as a gladiator in the Colosseum. Director Ridley Scott has provided a rousing epic with not much substance, but it doesn’t really need it. The picture looks good overall, undermined slightly by computer graphics that are too slick. Crowe is perfect for the role, creating a character that will quickly gain your sympathies. Good action and some great battle sequences make up for some sloppy editing moments. Good summer movie.