Not all movies that win the Academy Award for Best Picture are deserving of it. The fact that “Titanic” beat out “L.A Confidential” and “Good Will Hunting” in 1997 is a joke. However, I like to think that the voting committee had a pretty easy job choosing “Gladiator” (R) in 2000 for its amazing acting, stunning visual effects and beautiful music.

Thinking that “Gladiator” is just an action movie with a bunch of bloody fights is asinine. Directed by Ridley Scott, this movie tells an amazing story of revenge and honor with an incredible script. Roman general Maximus Decimus Meridius (Russell Crowe) is betrayed by the late Emperor Marcus Arelius’ son, Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), and stripped of his rank. Now forced to fight as a gladiator, Maximus seeks revenge for the murder of his family, and to achieve Marcus Arelius’ dream of a senate-governed Rome.

The acting was solid all around. Russell Crowe’s Oscar for Best Male Actor was well deserved, and if not for his work in “A Beautiful Mind,” this might be his greatest performance.

The supporting actors excelled as well. Joaquin Phoenix plays Commodus, and he really makes you hate him for his arrogant and selfish actions along with his crybaby attitude. Other notable roles include Connie Nielson as Commodus’ sister, the cunning yet frightened Lucilla, Oliver Reed as the gladiator mentor Proximo, and Djimon Hounsou as Juba, Maximus’ faithful sidekick.

Even though the film was nominated for Best Original Score, it still feels like the music is one of the more underrated parts of “Gladiator.” The soundtrack brings something extra to this movie. The music enhances the film so much. It fits the film perfectly during every scene. In the fight scenes it is up-tempo and intense, and during the emotional scenes it is absolutely beautiful.       

The visual effects in “Gladiator” were exuberant, and won the Oscar for Best Visual Effects for a reason. The fighting scenes are where this film shows its brilliance in special and visual effects, and since much of this film is fighting in the Colosseum, it’s necessary. These scenes are intense and exciting, because at any moment any of your favorite characters can die. The atmosphere in the Colosseum is chaotic as the gladiators have to fight off enemy after enemy.  Also, the costume designs were spot on, which won the movie yet another Oscar. The armor for the soldiers, robes and animal furs for the nobles, and rags and scraps for the slaves and gladiators made the film feel real and alive.

“Gladiator” is one of the best movies ever created. The music, effects, and phenomenal storytelling is what makes this film a Best Picture winner. Russell Crowe and Ridley Scott have partnered to create many noteworthy movies, but this is easily the best, and if you haven’t seen it then you’re missing out.