Questions
Who directed Gladiator and when did it come out?
Gladiator was directed by Ridley Scott and released in the United States on May 5, 2000.
Who starred as Maximus?
Russell Crowe played Maximus Decimus Meridius, the betrayed Roman general turned gladiator, and he won the Academy Award for Best Actor for the role.
What is the movie about?
A betrayed Roman general is enslaved and becomes a gladiator, seeking vengeance against the emperor who murdered his family and his predecessor.
How many Oscars did Gladiator win?
It won 5 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and also took the BAFTA for Best Film and the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture Drama.
Is it true one of the main actors died during filming?
Yes. Oliver Reed, who played Proximo, died of a heart attack on May 2, 1999, before finishing his scenes. His character’s death was rewritten into the script and digital effects reportedly placed Reed’s face on a body double for the remaining footage. The film is dedicated to him.
Did they really improvise famous lines?
Reportedly yes. Joaquin Phoenix ad-libbed Commodus’ line "Am I not merciful?"
Where did "Strength and Honor" come from?
Russell Crowe reportedly created the phrase by modifying his high school’s Latin motto "Veritate et Virtute" (Truth and Virtue).
Who played the villain Commodus?
Joaquin Phoenix played the emperor Commodus. Jude Law reportedly auditioned for the part, but Phoenix’s tape won him the role.
Did they start filming with a finished script?
No. Crowe said they began shooting with only about 32 pages, and the screenplay by David Franzoni, John Logan, and William Nicholson was rewritten throughout production, with some dialogue created on set.
How did they film the big opening forest battle?
It was shot at Bourne Wood in England. When Scott learned the Forestry Commission planned to remove a section of the forest, he got permission to burn it down for the scene.
Who composed the music?
Hans Zimmer and Lisa Gerrard composed the score. In 2006 the Holst Foundation sued Zimmer for allegedly copying Gustav Holst’s work, and the case settled out of court.
Was Russell Crowe hurt making the movie?
Crowe reportedly suffered several injuries, including lower back damage from the fight sequences, and later attributed knee, shoulder, and Achilles tendon problems to the production.
Who else was almost cast?
Mel Gibson reportedly turned down the lead due to his commitment to The Patriot, and Jennifer Lopez reportedly tested for the role of Lucilla.
Is there a sequel?
Yes. Gladiator II, again directed by Ridley Scott and starring Paul Mescal, was released in November 2024, and a third film is in development.
