The Old Movie "Gladiator"

The old movie "Gladiator" portrayed by Russel Crowe gives a vision of freedom.

"The idea is greatness. It is a vision," says the lady lead character in the film Gladiator. I can visualize from the story the writer's itch to show what greatness means. That greatness is being true to your word, being truthful to yourself and doing a noble and magnanimous deed. It is being brave despite trials. It is being true despite poverty. It is fighting for what you believe in.

History tells us that Romans are thrilled with games involving slaves. Audience bets on who wins the game while they get entertained as depicted in the film. The story concept shows that greatness is not being rich or being poor nor being a king or slave - it is something in the character of the individual. No matter who or what he is. Maximus proves his worth as being a good man by being true to his promise to King Marcus Aurelious.

The idea also shows us about freedom. That it can be won by staying together for a good cause and having true friends. Working together for a vision to attain a goal despite dangers (it was depicted in the senator's life , the loyal friends of Maximus, and the princess). Greatness is an act that teaches men wisdom, wisdom to have strength and honor to the extent of risking one's life.

The screenwriter with a deep thought about greatness, principle, life and death weaved a great story form the simple but encompassing idea of a good vision: the general who became a slave, the slave who became a gladiator, and the gladiator who defied the emperor.