A Study of Gladiator Essay -- Papers Film Cinematography Directing Ess

A Study of Gladiator This is a study of the 1999 box-office hit, Gladiator, starring Russell Crowe. In this article, I will be looking at camera shots, soundtrack, special effects and other things, that enhance the viewing of the film, and increase its quality. We watched the first forty minutes of the film, and were asked to analyse its media attributes. The film is set in the Caesar period, at the end of the reign of Marco Aurelius. The main opening scene is set in Germania, and it is the beginning of a battle, but the end of a war, between the Roman legion and some barbarians. The very first scene is not a reality shot, it's a "dream" shot. The scene itself is at Maximus' home, in his cornfield, walking along, while brushing his hand through the wheat. This scene shows that while Maximus is a great general and a noble leader, he really would like to go home, to see his wife and child. The camera angle used in the scene shows the view from Maximus' legs. Having shown this dream, the film quickly proceeds to the next scene, which starts off showing Maximus looking at a robin. This is good for the scene; it could be filmed showing Maximus' last look at peace before he goes into battle. The shot is filmed through Maximus' eyes, then zooming out to show that it is Maximus looking at the robin. After this scene, Maximus is shown talking to Quintus about the battle ahead. Quintus asks Maximus about the range, because he is concerned that they are not close enough, but Maximus replies, "the range is good." This shows Maximus' confidence, and this obviously shows he is experienced in battle and an influential leader. Maximus the... ...ding back to his own home as fast as he can. The film also shows shots of the pictures running through his mind, his family being killed by Roman soldiers, his little son being trampled by the cavalry of horses. He arrives back to his home after at least a day of solid riding, and he is distraught. He dismounts the horse he escaped on, stumbles over towards his house, and sees a horrific sight; his wife and son, hung from the porch. The camera is positioned behind the two hanging bodies, and shows the bottom half of these, and Maximus' face, as he collapses on the floor in exhaustion and sadness. This is only a study of the first forty minutes of Gladiator, yet there are a huge number of different camera angles and techniques. This continues throughout the film, and shows true directing quality by the films director.