An archetypal message for the ages - Gladiator Reviews

Where other movies struggle to "enlighten" us according to some half truth, Gladiator effortlessly resonates directly to the deepest and best within us by getting the message straight. This movie gives us the unvarnished truth about life and then challenges us to live by a code the ancients new well: to be true to one's best self, for nothing else will ever be of any lasting consequence. In the final analysis, lasting self-esteem and true inner peace can only come from living up to our highest ideals without flinching or compromising. This entails loss and severe hardship. Maximus is an example of how to struggle with this tough challenge we humans are saddled with. His arrow-straight nature, uncompromising sense of duty and his ability to endure pain and suffering for the truth make him a worthy role model. A person of true character. Where are such men today? Who and what have our "gods" become? We should all be so lucky to stand in such a man's presence so we may become dyed in his colors.