Gladiator Screenplay Analysis - Jordyn

 

In this scene in the movie Gladiator, this is the first scene we the audience see Commodus and Maximus interact. This scene in particular could be seen as foreshadowing for Commodus' struggle to separate himself from his father Marcus Aurelius, but it also is showing the tension that the audience sees throughout the film. Commodus has all of Aurelius' flaws which is one reason why Aurelius does not think his son is fit to rule. Maximus is at his core a true leader and Commodus will never measure up to him. This scene does a great job of discreetly setting the movie up for Commodus' resentment and anger towards Maximus for the qualities he does not have. Having Commodus dressed like an Emperor but not being respected by his father, compared to Maximus wearing just his armor and commanding a whole legion gives insight to their characters. Also having Aurelius standing in-between Commodus and Maximus was a great way to foreshadow the cause of their conflict.

Comments

  1. Emma October 25, 2023 at 11:15 PM

    When Aurelius says "Save the bulls. Honor Maximus" it can be seen how caught off guard and offended Commodus is. He came to congratulate his father and instead Aurelius brags about Maximus.

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