This was my favorite movie the moment Maximus took off his helmet. This movie has it all: great acting (particularly Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix), great action, great music, and above all a great story behind it. Historical fiction is kind of my thing and this movie basically defines it. I was horrified that AFI had this on its Top 100 and had movies like The Manchurian Candidate and Braveheart. They are both good but Gladiator is way better! Strength and honor!