Gladiator – show how Ridley Scott uses a variety of techniques Essay Example
My assignment involves demonstrating my comprehension of how director Ridley Scott utilizes various methods to form a character and sway the viewer's perception of Maximus, portrayed by Russel Crowe. Prior to viewing the film, I believed that gladiators were simply enslaved individuals from Rome who fought and murdered one another for mere amusement. The promotional poster led me to speculate that while Maximus may seemingly portray a heartless assassin, he could also potentially be regarded as a hero of sorts endeavoring to attain justice within the coliseum.
Maximus is first introduced daydreaming while walking through a wheat field with his hand delicately caressing the wheat. The lighting is a warm, bright yellowish hue, creating a cozy atmosphere for the audience. Though we only see Maximus's hand, he wears a ring indicating he is married and possibly has
...children. The scene transitions to Maximus preparing for battle, where the lighting becomes dark and gray. By comparing the two scenes, it's clear Maximus would prefer farming over fighting in battle. During the battle, he wears his soldiers uniform and bears a wolf skin on his shoulders, representing his leadership within the army.
Maximus exhibits loyalty rather than a propensity for killing during the battle when he confronts one of his fellow soldiers and realizes the error of his actions. A tragic ending necessitates the presence of a villain, and Commodos is introduced as such in a suspenseful scene where his demeanor and appearance are shrouded in darkness, adding to his air of enigma.
Commodos sword fighting is lethal and primarily serves to execute, leading viewers to perceive him as a killer and antagonist in the gladiator film. Upon Maximus' initial
appearance during a battle sequence, he issues commands to his troops in Latin. Similarly, while fighting in the coliseum, the Roman crowd cheers for Maximus in Latin, the predominant language of Rome. His low tone lends Maxiumus an air of reliability and trustworthiness.
Commodos' suspicious character is portrayed through his frequent use of a high tone of voice and dark eyes in many scenes. The first appearance of Juba occurs as they come across a wounded and unconscious Maximus, whom Juba helps by covering his wound. This marks the first instance of anyone aiding Maximus in the film.
Juba was originally a hunter and later sold to become a gladiator. Overall, Ridley Scott portrays Maximus as a tragic hero due to his loyalty, bravery, and success as a soldier. Despite his potential to become emperor, Commodus ultimately takes the throne by killing his own father, leaving Maximus in a tragic situation.
Despite Maximus's death, I believe the conclusion of the movie was fitting. Having lost his family and avenged their deaths by killing Commodus, Maximus had nothing left to live for. Therefore, although it may have been sorrowful, it was the suitable ending.
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