Every Ridley Scott Movie Ranked Worst To Best

Academy Award upsets aside, Gladiator has captured the hearts and minds of moviegoers for over two decades now. It's the kind of film people either love or love to hate on, but also one that - upon re-watches - easily reminds audiences what made it so popular at the turn of the century.

Set in Ancient Rome, the epic historical drama casts Russell Crowe in his most well known and wildly imitated role as Maximus Meridius, a decorated soldier who is forced into violent slavery as he battles to get revenge on his captor, the insidious and cruel Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix).

Both Crowe and Phoenix offer dependably astonishing performances, which are matched in turn by Ridley Scott's superb action sequences, sweeping battle scenes and tension-fuelled confrontations.

Admittedly, some aspects of Maximus' quest are slightly heavy-handed, but thanks to the enrapturing performances and increasingly heart-pounding violence, Gladiator is great enough to justify its popularity and overcome its vices.