Hollywood Flashback: The First ‘Gladiator’ Slayed Its Oscar Competition
The Hollywood ReporterStory by Lexy Perez
scrn logline
Over 20 years later, the epic that won 5 Oscars, 'Gladiator', still stands tall as a Hollywood classic that inspired a much-anticipated sequel.
beat sheet
- The original 'Gladiator' was almost led by Mel Gibson, but the producers ultimately cast Russell Crowe, who won Best Actor for his iconic performance as the vengeful gladiator Maximus.
- Director Ridley Scott has high hopes for the new 'Gladiator' sequel, declaring it the 'best thing I've ever made' - a bold claim given the critical and commercial success of the original.
call sheet
Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Ridley Scott, Paul Mescal, Gladiator II, 'Gladiator'