Gladiator

It is clear in the opening of Gladiator that the main character is a hero. He is portrayed as honourable and respected as the other men bow down or salute him as he passes. As he leads his man into war he is brave which makes him a strong leader. Although he has a strong warrior side, he also has a peaceful side which is shown through the use of nature. At the beginning he is shown looking at a robin which may show hope, and he is also shown along side a dog. This portrays him as gentle and trustworthy. The audience sees him running his hand through the harverst in a field which is only in his imagination. There are voices in the background which suggest he has children at home, and as he is wearing a ring it would suggest he is married with this family. By showing this man as peaceful but also ready to fight creates an image of a good leader and a strong hero.


The opening of Gladiator clearly portrays the typical action adventure genre. The audience becomes aware that a battle is about to commence as men in armour are shown preparing spears and shields.They are shown in a battle against barbarians. As soon as the battle begins, everthing appears to happen at a fast speed which creates tension for the audience watching. The barbarians are much less organised than the Romans and they are not as well presented. The Romans are in nice armour appearing prepared, whereas the barbarians are presented unshaved and unorganised. Many deaths are shown as soon as the battle begins which is typical in an action adventure film. Also there are arrows lit with flames being fired, which cause great explosions. This is also very typical in an action and adventure film.