“I Can Make Even Garbage Sound Good.” Russell Crowe Didn't Have a Good Opinion of the Gladiator Script

As a seasoned gamer and film enthusiast with a soft spot for historical epics, I have to admit that Gladiator is one of those rare masterpieces that leaves an indelible mark on you. The performances by Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix were nothing short of spectacular, and the movie’s five Academy Awards are testament to its greatness.


The movie “Gladiator” is still highly acclaimed to this day, with Ridley Scott’s brilliant direction being a significant factor. Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix provided performances that left a lasting impression on viewers. The film took home 5 Oscars and was nominated for an additional 7 Academy Awards, among them Best Original Screenplay.

It might be unexpected to learn that one of the stars in the movie “Gladiator”, Russell Crowe, expressed criticism towards the script. He reportedly spoke negatively about the lines he ended up delivering on set. His dissatisfaction was partly due to the frequent revisions in the script, which were made by the director, writers, producers, and even the actors themselves.

It’s said that William Nicholson was asked to revise the screenplay. Just two days prior to filming a crucial scene, he was summoned to implement alterations. Reportedly, this situation didn’t sit well with Crowe, who, as Nicholson shared in an interview with The Daily Mail, vented his own annoyance by criticizing the script.

Despite the questionable quality of the script, I possess an exceptional talent for acting that allows me to breathe life into even the most ordinary dialogue.

Although Nicolson faced severe criticism, he partially concurred with the actor’s viewpoint. He didn’t entirely accept the labeling of his script as “garbage,” but acknowledged Crowe’s exceptional acting skills. Moreover, the presumed arrogance of Gladiator’s Maximus did not ruffle Nicolson at all.

And the funny thing is that it’s true. Ok, the lines weren’t garbage and he was a bit aggressive, but he is a great actor, so his occasional fits of arrogance didn’t bother me at all.

Most likely, those who have seen the movie “Gladiator” would recall the famous quote delivered by Maximus at a crucial moment. This scene remains impactful and continues to stir deep feelings even to this day. Here it is:

I am Maximus Decimus Meridius, leader of the northern armies and commander of the esteemed Felix Legions. I am a devoted servant to Emperor Marcus Aurelius, who has lost a son and wife unjustly. And I will seek vengeance, whether it is in this world or the next.

The DreamWorks executive told Time that Crowe also had issues with it, indicating that working with him was challenging and he resisted when it came to delivering the specified line.

Russell exhibited unruly behavior. On a whim, he decided to revise the entire script spontaneously. The memorable phrase from the teaser, “In this life or the next, I will have my vengeance,” was initially something he adamantly refused to utter.

In this case, the director being referred to stepped forward to share that Ridley Scott acted as a stabilizing force on set, tactfully managing situations. Meanwhile, Russell Crowe, who found himself under considerable pressure due to his significant role and complications with the script, occasionally disagreed with his lines but ultimately delivered them on camera and strived for excellence.

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“I Can Make Even Garbage Sound Good.” Russell Crowe Didn't Have a Good Opinion of the Gladiator Script

Author: Edyta Jastrzebska

A graduate with a background in journalism, social communication, and cultural studies, she initially joined Gamepressure.com as a news reporter in the films department. Now, she manages their movie & TV newsroom, demonstrating expertise in both realistic and fantastical film and television genres. She stays abreast of industry developments but prefers lesser-known titles over popular ones, often changing her opinion about them once the initial buzz dies down. In her leisure time, she enjoys watching films, series, reading books, playing video games, and immersing herself in text RPGs, a hobby she has pursued for several years.

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2024-11-27 12:02