2000 [글래디에이터] Gladiator

[수다쟁이]

[글래디에이터] Gladiator

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AT THE HEIGHT OF ITS POWER, THE ROMAN EMPIRE WAS VAST,
STRETCHING FROM THE DESERTS OF AFRICA TO THE BORDERS OF
NORTHERN ENGLAND.
OVER ONE QUARTER OF THE WORLD'S POPULATION LIVED AND DIED
UNDER THE RULE OF THE CAESARS.
IN THE WINTER OF 180 A.D. EMPEROR MARCUS AURELIUS' TWELVE-YEAR
CAMPAIGN AGAINST THE BARBARIAN TRIBES IN GERMANIA WAS
DRAWING TO AN END.
ONE FINAL STRONGHOLD STANDS IN THE WAY OF ROMAN VICTORY AND
THE PROMISE OF PEACE THROUGHOUT THE EMPIRE.
* * * * * * * *
OPENING SCENE - Close up - a rough weathered hand lightly brushes the
tops of wheat as a man walks through the tall wheat towards a woman
(his wife) and child (his son). In the background can be heard the faint
laughter of a child. The man dressed in Roman soldier uniform, is General
Maximus. He quickly leaves this pleasant vision to return to Germania where the
armour-suited General stands amidst the mud and burned forest, cloaked in a fur
cape that protects him from the cold winter air. The General contemplates the
battle that is to take place. Turning to join the troops, a small Robin catches his eye
as it sits on a bare twig and then flies away. The General Maximus smiles, watching
as though a remembrance of his life as a farmer when life was peaceful and
innocent, but he is quickly brought back to the reality of the cold day...and to the
soldiers who await his signal to begin the battle.
[SCENE: Germania - prebattle. As the cavalry rides past Maximus, soldiers are
lining up for battle. Maximus walks along the ranks of the army. The soldiers rise as
he approaches, looking at him with great respect and admiration. At the top of the
hill, overlooking the battle field, sits Caesar Marcus Aurelius atop his horse,
surrounded by the Roman Praetorian guards. Back on the battle field, Maximus
approaches and addresses Quintus and Valerius.]
 
MAXIMUS: Lean and hungry. Still nothing? 
QUINTUS: Not a sign. 
MAXIMUS: How long has he been gone? 
VALERIUS: Nearly 2 hours. 
VALERIUS: Will they fight, sir? 
MAXIMUS: We shall know soon enough.
[Quintus looks over at the soldiers readying the catapults.]
QUINTUS: Soldier, I ordered you to move those catapults forward, they're
out of range. 
MAXIMUS: Range is good. 
QUINTUS: The danger to the cavalry... 
MAXIMUS [interrupts]: It is acceptable, agreed?
[In the distant, the cries of the barbarians can be heard - "ihr seid hunde" (you
are dogs!). A horse rides from the German line with a headless horseman on its
back....]
MAXIMUS: They say no.
[The white and bloodied horse rides within the ranks of the Roman soldiers. A
barbarian comes to the forefront of the German lines, waving the horseman's head,
tossing it into the mud....]
GERMAN BARBARIAN: Ihr seid verfluchte hunde! (You are damned dogs!)
[As the barbarian calls out his cry, his mangy band of barbarians emerge from the
forest, shaking and waving their spears and shields, ready to fight.]
QUINTUS: People should know when they're conquered. 
MAXIMUS: Would you, Quintus? Would I?
[Maximus bends down and picks up a handful of dirt, bringing it to his nose to smell.
He looks to the side and sees his WOLF OF ROME eagerly watching him. They
steady their gaze as though communicating with each other. Maximus rises and
mounts his horse, turning to Quintus and Valerius.]
MAXIMUS: Strength and honour. 
QUINTUS: Strength and honour. 
VALERIUS: Strength and honour.
MAXIMUS: At my signal, unleash hell. [He rides off. His wolf breaks free from
the handler, charges after Maximus, running along side the horse.]
QUINTUS: Load the catapults; infantry form up for advance...archers ready. 
CHIEF ARCHER: Archers! 
CENTURION: Nock! 
ARCHER: Nock!
[Maximus rides up into the forest where the cavalry await, his wolf running closely
at his side. Maximus stops and addresses the men....]
MAXIMUS: Fratres..., three weeks from now I will be harvesting my crops,
imagine where you will be and it will be so. Hold the lines, stay with me. If
you find yourself alone riding in green fields with the sun on your face, do
not be troubled, for you are in Elysium and you're already dead!!!. [The men
laugh.] Brothers, what we do in life echoes in eternity.
[Barely seen, a soldier hands Maximus his helmet. Maximus turns to an archer and
nods, giving the signal to "unleash hell" and a flaming arrow is shot through the sky.
Back on the battlefield, the flaming arrow is witnessed and all hell breaks loose....]
ONAGER CENTURION: Pull, Pull! 
SHOUT: Cohorts, ready sir!
1st CENTURION: Archers, ignite! 
2nd CENTURION: Ignite! 
1st CENTURION: Archers, draw! 
ONAGER CENTURION: Loose!
[Scorpions fire, onagers let loose, flaming arrows, defiant cheers from the mob. As
Maximus leads the thundering cavalry down through the trees, shouts can be heard
from Maximus and his men....]
MAXIMUS: Hold the line! 
SOLDIER: Make ready. 
MAXIMUS: Hold the line!
[More archer battle scene....]
MAXIMUS: Stay with me! Stay with me!
[III Felix Legion advancing, then tortoise formation, then barbarian charge.
Maximus' wolf leaps through a wall of flames. The cavalry reaches the Germans.
Swords are flying as they attack each other. Maximus charges at a barbarian,
slicing his head off as his sword becomes impaled in a tree. Maximus' horse is felled
when a barbarian thrusts a lance in its path causing Maximus to fall hard, into the
mud, amongst the soldiers. Maximus looks stunned, but as a German attacks him
with his axe, Maximus parries each thrust before lashing out and cutting the
German's legs from under him. The German collapses. Another German charges
Maximus, who is still on the ground. Maximus manages to slide past the oncoming
sword thrust. He punches the soldier, than stabs him. He climbs to his feet, still
stabbing at the wounded German. Maximus starts running, but collides with
another legionary. Maximus turns towards the startled legionary, who can only
stand there agape as Maximus raises his sword in a feral scream. Maximus
recognizes the legionary as one of his own men, and gives him a fierce smile.]
[Scene cuts to the barbarian warlord -- barbarian warlord finishes off a legionary,
but before he has time to recover, another legionary rushes and stabs him in the
side. The barbarian stumbles, but does not fall. Another soldier strikes him from the
other side, but he still does not fall. Finally, a soldier strikes him from behind, a
vicious thrust from above into his neck. Scene cuts to a centurion who falls from his
horse, then back to Maximus. Maximus punches a German twice, before slashing
him across the chest with his sword. Maximus hears another German's scream
coming from behind. Startled, he turns to see a barbarian, whose clothes and chain
mail are aflame, charging towards him with an axe. Maximus parries the first swing,
but goes down. As the barbarian raises his axe for the final swing, a charging
cavalryman rushes by with a timely swing of his sword, and the barbarian falls,
saving Maximus from death. Another barbarian sees Maximus and charges, but only
to be stopped in midswing by the WOLF OF ROME, who leaps at him, biting his
hand and fending him off of Maximus. It is a chaotic scene of soldiers running
around, wrestling with each other. We hear the wolf's growls in the background. We
see Maximus and other soldiers stabbing, fighting feverishly. Wide cut to a scene
with dozens of soldiers fighting, with two standards of the Felix Legion thrust into
the ground. We see one particular scene where a legionary kneels after stabbing a
German, but himself falls as a German swings a sword at him. Cuts back to
Maximus stabbing a soldier, then looking around, breathless, but looking for more
enemies.]
[We see a scene where a cavalryman falls from his horse, dead, and unhelmed.
Another scene with a legionary, crying. Maximus and another legionary gathering
themselves between the standards. The brutal battle is over, with legionaries
wandering, slaying wounded Germans. Maximus raises his sword, crying out,
"Roma Victa!" Other legionaries raise their swords and cheer. Maximus stands
amongst the dead and wounded, the remaining Roman soldiers at his side as he
raises his sword and, exhausted, again cries out for all to hear....]
MAXIMUS: Roma victa! 
CENTURION: Roma victa!
[At the top of the hill, Caesar Marcus Aurelius slowly leans his head back in relief of
the victory.]
[Scene change - roadway, guarded armoured wagon is slowly moving along. In it,
Commodus and Lucilla, as they make their way to their father, Marcus Aurelius.]
COMMODUS: Do you think he's really dying? 
LUCILLA: He's been dying for ten years. 
COMMODUS: If he weren't really dying he wouldn't have sent for us. 
LUCILLA: Maybe he just misses us. 
COMMODUS: And the Senators...he wouldn't have summoned them if....
LUCILLA: Peace, Commodus. After two weeks on the road your incessant
scheming is hurting my head. 
COMMODUS: He's made his decision, he's going to announce it! He will
name me.... The first thing I shall do...when...is honour him with games
worthy of his majesty. 
LUCILLA: For now, the first thing I shall do is have a hot bath.
[There is a knock on the wagon as it comes to a halt. An unseen attendant calls out
- "Your Highness". Commodus steps out.]
ATTENDANT: We look to be almost there, Sire. [A battle weary soldier
approaches the wagon] Sire.
COMMODUS: Where's the Emperor? 
SOLDIER: At the front, Sire. They've been gone for 19 days. The wounded
are still coming in.
[Commodus calls to the guard - "My horse!" Commodus mounts his horse, looks
back at Lucilla and hesitantly asks - "kiss?" to which she kisses her hand and
tosses her hand his way.]
[Scene change back to the battle field where the light snow continues to fall.
Maximus has found his sword impaled in the tree during battle. He removes the
sword and as he turns, Marcus walks up amidst the soldiers as they stand and bow
in his honour. Marcus walks to Maximus.]
MARCUS: You have proved your valour yet again, Maximus. Let us hope, for
the last time.
MAXIMUS: There is no one left to fight, Sire.
MARCUS: There is always someone left to fight, Maximus. Tell me, how can
I reward Rome's greatest General? 
[The battle weary Maximus, face splattered with the blood of his enemy, body
drained from the exertion of the battle, thinks momentarily and simply replies.]
MAXIMUS: Let me go home?
MARCUS: Ahh. Home.
[Marcus and Maximus, walk together through the debris of the battle, amidst the
soldiers who are cheering as they pass.]
MAXIMUS: They honour you, Caesar. 
MARCUS: It is you, Maximus. They honour you.
[Maximus stops momentarily and raises his sword overhead. The army cheers even
loader. In the distant, Commodus and his guards atop their horses, witnesses
Maximus with his father, hears the cheers and quickly races down to them.]
COMMODUS: [Quickly dismounting his horse, he approaches Marcus.] Have I
missed it. Have I missed the battle? 
MARCUS: You have missed the war. 
COMMODUS: Congratulations. I shall sacrifice 100 bulls to honour your
triumph. 
MARCUS: Save the bulls, honour Maximus. He won the battle. 
COMMODUS: General.
MAXIMUS: Highness.
COMMODUS: Rome salutes you and I embrace you as a brother. It has been
too long old friend.
MAXIMUS: Highness. [Maximus with head bowed. Commodus turns to his father.]
COMMODUS: Here, father, take my arm. 
MARCUS: I think it is time...for me to leave. 
[Commodus appears embarrassed that his father would not accept his help, and
looks at Maximus with envy and scorn. Marcus gets on his horse and Maximus
quickly hands his sword to Quintus while he assists Marcus in settling onto his
horse.]
MARCUS [to Maximus]: So much for the glory of Rome. [And Marcus Leaves....]
[SCENE CHANGE to tent where party is taking place. Music and laughter fill the air.
Maximus enters, washes his hands in a bowl of water, seemingly stained with the
blood of the battle. Maximus looks into the crowd and sees Marcus and Commodus
within. He then moves toward Quintus and Valerius....]
QUINTUS: General!
MAXIMUS: Still alive? 
QUINTUS: Still alive. 
MAXIMUS: The gods must have a sense of humour. 
QUINTUS: The gods must love you. 
VALERIUS: Back to your barracks, General, or to Rome? 
MAXIMUS: Home. The wife, the son, the harvest. 
QUINTUS: Maximus the farmer. I still have difficulty imagining that. 
MAXIMUS: You know, Quintus, dirt cleans off a lot easier than blood.
COMMODUS: [As he approaches Maximus,] Here he is. 
MAXIMUS: Highness. 
COMMODUS: [Making introductions,] Senator Gaius, Senator Falco. 
Beware of Gaius, he will pour honeyed potion in your ear and you will wake
up one day and all you'll say is Republic! Republic! Republic! 
GAIUS: Well, Rome WAS founded as a Republic.
COMMODUS: Yes and in a republic, the senate has the power. But Senator
Gaius is not influenced by that, of course. 
FALCO: Where do you stand General? Emperor or Senate? 
MAXIMUS: A soldier has the advantage of being able to look his enemy in
the eye, Senator.
GAIUS: You know, with an army behind you, you could be extremely
political.
COMMODUS: I warned you, but I shall save you. Senators. [He pulls Maximus
away and they leave the Senators. Commodus continues his conversation with
Maximus.]  I'm going to need good men like you.
MAXIMUS: [Cautiously asking,] How may I be of service, Highness?
COMMODUS: You are a man who knows what it is to command. You give
your orders, the orders are obeyed, and the battle is won. But these
senators, they scheme and squabble and flatter and deceive. Maximus we
must save Rome from the politicians. [Glancing over to Marcus and back to
Maximus.] Can I count on you, when the time comes?
MAXIMUS: [Following Commodus' glance, he looks at Marcus and back to
Commodus.] Highness, when your father releases me I intend to return
home.
COMMODUS: Home, well no one has earned it more. Don't get too
comfortable - I may call on you before long. Lucilla is here - did you know?
[A look of concern over Commodus' remarks about future service, followed with
surprise about Lucilla overcome Maximus as Commodus continues....] She has not
forgotten you. And now you are the great man.
[SCENE CHANGE - Lucilla and her maid are seen peering out from the tent to where
Commodus and Maximus talk. Eyeing Maximus, Lucilla murmurs "Maximus".
Marcus enters the tent and they quickly stop when he catches their attention.]
MARCUS: If only you had been born a man. What a Caesar you would have
made. 
LUCILLA: Father [as she walks to him and kisses his cheek].
MARCUS: You would have been strong. I wonder, would you have been just. 
LUCILLA: I would have been what you taught me to be. 
MARCUS: Oh. How was your journey? 
LUCILLA: Long - uncomfortable. Why have I come? 
MARCUS: I need your help...with your brother. 
LUCILLA: Of course.
MARCUS: He loves you, he always has and... he will need you now, more
than ever. [A contemplative pause by Marcus and he continues as they walk arm
in arm....] Enough of politics. Let us pretend that you are a loving daughter
and I am a good father. 
LUCILLA: This is a pleasant fiction, isn't it?
[SCENE CHANGE - camp, fire pits warm the air, light snow falls, Maximus walks,
greeting and congratulating the men as they rest, eat, and sharpen their swords.
Maximus approaches his horse stroking its head and his attention is caught by the
sound of swords clashing amongst the trees. He sees Commodus and his guards,
shirtless, as they exercise sword maneuvers in the cold. Commodus is an excellent
swordsman.]
[SCENE CHANGES to Marcus's tent where Marcus sits hunched over his desk,
writing on a tablet. Maximus enters and Marcus does not look up.]
MAXIMUS: You sent for me Caesar? [No response. Maximus turns to look at the
weak and old Marcus.] Caesar? 
MARCUS: [Straightening up from the desk,] Tell me again Maximus, why are
we here? 
MAXIMUS: For the glory of the empire, Sire. 
MARCUS: Ah yes, ah yes. I remember. You see that map, Maximus? That is
the world which I created. For 25 years, I have conquered, spilt blood,
expanded the empire. Since I became Caesar I have known 4 years
without war - 4 years of peace in 20. And for what? [He rises.] I brought the
sword, nothing more. 
MAXIMUS: Caesar, your life... 
MARCUS: Please, please don't call me that. Come, please, come sit. Let us
talk now, together now. Very simply, as men. Well, Maximus, talk. 
MAXIMUS: 5,000 of my men are out there in the freezing mud. 3,000 of
them are bloodied and cleaved. 2,000 will never leave this place. I will not
believe they fought and died for nothing. 
MARCUS: And what would you believe? 
MAXIMUS: They fought for YOU and for Rome. 
MARCUS: And what is Rome, Maximus? 
MAXIMUS: I have seen much of the rest of the world. It is brutal and cruel
and dark. Rome is the light. 
MARCUS: Yet you have never been there. You have not seen what it has
become. I am dying, Maximus. When a man sees his end he wants to know
that there has been some purpose to his life. How will the world speak my
name in years to come? Will I be known as the philosopher, the warrior,
the tyrant. Or will I be the Emperor who gave Rome back her true self?
There was once a dream that was Rome, you could only whisper it.
Anything more than a whisper and it would vanish. It was so fragile and I
fear that it will not survive the winter.
Maximus, let us whisper now. Together, you and I. You have a son?
[Maximus nods.] Tell me about your home.  
[Maximus looks a bit surprised at the invitation to hear of his home, but eagerly
and proudly describes it -- a peaceful happiness overcomes him as he speaks.]
MAXIMUS: My house is in the hills above Trujillo. Very simple place, pink
stones that warm in the sun. Kitchen garden that smells of herbs in the day,
jasmine in the evening. Through the gate is a giant poplar. Figs, apples,
pears. The soil, Marcus, black ...black like my wife's hair. [Marcus warmly
laughs with Maximus] Grapes on the south slopes, olives on the north. Wild
ponies play near my house, they tease my son. He wants to be one of them.
MARCUS: Maximus, when was the last time you were home?
MAXIMUS: 2 years, 264 days and this morning.
MARCUS: I envy you, Maximus. It is a good home. Worth fighting for?
[Maximus nods yes and Marcus rises.] There is one more duty that I ask of you
before you go home.
[Maximus quickly rises, the soldier that he is; respectfully, to attention.]
MAXIMUS: What will you have me do, Caesar? 
MARCUS: I want you to become the protector of Rome after I die. I will
empower you, to one end alone, to give power back to the people of Rome
and end the corruption that has crippled it. [Shock and bewilderment
overcome Maximus. He tries to keep from displaying these feelings. Hearing no
response, Marcus continues.] Will you accept this great honour that I have
offered? 
MAXIMUS: With all my heart, no. 
MARCUS: [Tenderly holding Maximus' head with both hands]: Maximus, that is
why it must be you. 
MAXIMUS: But surely a prefect, a senator, somebody who knows the city,
who understands her politics.... 
MARCUS: But you have not been corrupted by her politics. 
MAXIMUS: And Commodus? 
MARCUS: Commodus is not a moral man, you have known that since you
were young. Commodus cannot rule. He must not rule. You are the son
that I should have had. Commodus will accept my decision. He knows that
you command the loyalty of the army.
MAXIMUS [Nearly speechless]: I need some time, Sire.
MARCUS: Yes. By sunset, I hope, you will have agreed. Now embrace me as
my son and bring an old man another blanket.
[SCENE CHANGE - As Maximus leaves Marcus' tent he hesitates outside, with a
troubled look upon his face. Lucilla steps out from the adjacent tent. She appears
to have been waiting for him.]
LUCILLA: My father favours you now. 
MAXIMUS: M'lady. 
LUCILLA: T'was not always so. 
MAXIMUS: Many things change. 
LUCILLA: Many things, not everything. [Maximus turns to leave.] Maximus,
stop. Let me see your face. You seem upset. 
MAXIMUS: I lost many men. 
LUCILLA: What did my father want with you? 
MAXIMUS: To wish me well before I leave for home. [Again, he turns to
leave.]
LUCILLA: You are lying. I could always tell when you were lying because
you were never any good at it.
[Maximus looks back at her sharply and approaches.]
MAXIMUS: I never acquired your comfort with it. 
LUCILLA: True. But then you never had to. Life is more simpler for a soldier.
Or do you think me heartless? 
MAXIMUS: I think you have a talent for survival. [Again, he turns to leave.
Lucilla laughs, wanting to prolong their time together.]
LUCILLA: Maximus, stop. Is it really so terrible seeing me again? 
MAXIMUS: No. I am tired from battle. 
LUCILLA: It hurts you to see my father so fragile. [Maximus nods.] 
LUCILLA: Commodus expects my father to announce succession within
days. Will you serve my brother as you have served my father? 
MAXIMUS: I will always serve Rome. 
LUCILLA: You know, I still remember you in my prayers. Oh, yes I pray. 
MAXIMUS: I was sad to hear of your husband's death. I mourned him. 
LUCILLA: Thank you. 
MAXIMUS: And I hear you have a son. 
LUCILLA: Yes, Lucius. He will be nearly 8 years old. 
MAXIMUS: My son is also nearly 8. [Again, a moment of peace overcomes him
as he speaks of his family.] I thank you for your prayers. [Maximus leaves
Lucilla as she stands alone, looking after him.]
[SCENE CHANGE - Maximus returns to his tent where he prays as he kneels in front
of the shrine of his Ancestors and family.]
MAXIMUS: Ancestors, I ask you for your guidance. Blessed Mother, come to
me with the Gods' desire for my future. Blessed Father, watch over my
wife and my son with a ready sword. Whisper to them that I live only to
hold them again. Ancestors, I honour you and will try to live with the
dignity you have taught me. [Maximus tenderly and longingly kisses the figurine
of his wife, stands and moves to sit on a chair as he calls to his friend and servant,
Cicero.]
MAXIMUS: Cicero. Do you find it hard to do your duty? 
CICERO: Sometimes I do what I want to do. The rest of the time I do what
I have to. 
MAXIMUS [rubbing his beard]: We may not be able to go home after all.
[SCENE CHANGE - Commodus has entered Marcus' tent, gazing at the statue of his
father, he reaches up and touches its face as Marcus enters from behind him.]
MARCUS: Are you ready to do your duty for Rome? 
COMMODUS [with a slight smile on his face]: Yes, father. 
MARCUS: You will not be Emperor. 
COMMODUS [the smile quickly vanishes leaving in its place painful bewilderment]:
Which wiser, older man is to take my place? 
MARCUS: My powers will pass to Maximus to hold in trust until the Senate
is ready to rule once more. Rome is to be a Republic again. 
COMMODUS: Maximus?
[Marcus moves his hand to touch Commodus' face and Commodus turns away.]
MARCUS: My decision disappoints you? 
COMMODUS: You wrote to me once, listing the four chief virtues -- wisdom,
justice, fortitude, and temperance. As I read the list I knew I had none of
them. But I have other virtues, Father -- ambition, that can be a virtue
when it drives us to excel; resourcefulness; courage, perhaps not on the
battle field but there are many forms of courage; devotion, to my family, to
you. But none of my virtues were on your list. Even then it was as if you
didn't want me for your son. 
MARCUS: Oh, Commodus, you go too far. 
COMMODUS: [In anguish and tears from the disappointment of Marcus' decision] I
searched the faces of the gods for ways to please you, to make you
proud.... One kind word, one full hug while you pressed me to your chest
and held me tight, would have been like the sun on my heart for a
thousand years.... What is it in me you hate so much? All I ever wanted
was to live up to you, Caesar, Father. 
MARCUS: Commodus, [he kneels in front of his son] your faults as a son, is my
failure as a father. [He stretches his arms out to Commodus, seeking forgiveness.
Commodus slowly embraces him, together they weep] 
COMMODUS: Father, I would butcher the whole world if you would only
loved me!!!
[Marcus still kneeling, Commodus presses his father tightly against his body,
smothering him, as Marcus struggles to be free, but fails. All the while, Commodus
cries and moans in pain, as though a child.]
[SCENE CHANGE - Maximus is sleeping on his cot and Quintus quietly enters to
wake him. Maximus quickly brandishes a knife, smiling with a hint of
embarrassment when he sees it is Quintus.]
QUINTUS: Maximus. The Emperor needs you. It is urgent.
[Together they return to Marcus' tent. As Maximus reaches the tent, the tarp is
pulled back and there stands Commodus.]
COMMODUS: Lament with me, brother. Our great father is dead. 
MAXIMUS: [Looking untrusting at Commodus he turns to the body of Marcus,
placing his hand to Marcus' forehead and then to the dead Emperor's throat as
though to check for signs of life, and asks,] How did he die? 
COMMODUS: The surgeon said there was no pain. His breath gave out as he
slept. 
MAXIMUS: [Leaning over Marcus, he whispers as he kisses his forehead.] Father.
COMMODUS: Your Emperor asks for your loyalty, Maximus. Take my hand.
I only offer it once.
[Maximus turns away from Marcus, looks at Lucilla as she sits in the corner, eyes
moist with grief. Maximus, in disbelief, ignores Commodus, walks past him and out
of the tent, calling to Quintus. Commodus turns to Quintus who looks back with a
pained acknowledgment of orders that have already been given. Lucilla steps out
from the corner, turns to Commodus, looks into his eyes, and slaps him, then picks
up his hand and kisses it.]
LUCILLA: Hail Caesar.
[SCENE CHANGE - Maximus' tent as he rushes in, buckling his armour as Cicero
assists him. Maximus hurriedly calling out orders.... "I must talk to the senators.
I need their counsel. Wake Gaius and Falco. Sword!" Before Cicero can hand
Maximus his sword, Quintus enters.]
QUINTUS: Maximus, please be careful, that was not prudent. 
MAXIMUS: Prudent! The Emperor has been slain. 
QUINTUS: The Emperor died of natural causes. 
MAXIMUS: Quintus, why are you armed? 
QUINTUS: Guards! [The guards quickly enter, spinning Maximus around as they
secure him.] Maximus please do not fight. I am sorry, Caesar has spoken.
[Cicero looks at Maximus as if to hand him his sword but Maximus shakes his head,
no. Quintus turns to the Praetorian guards.]
QUINTUS: Ride him until dawn and then execute him. 
MAXIMUS: Quintus, look at me. Look at me! Promise me that you will look
after my family. 
QUINTUS: Your family will meet you in the after life.  
[Maximus struggles and one of the guards hits him across the back of the head with
a sword.]
[SCENE CHANGE - to where Maximus is about to be executed. The guard tells
Maximus to "kneel". As the assassin positions himself, Maximus prays within
"Blessed Father watch over my wife and son. Whisper to them that I live
only to hold them again." Then Maximus asks the chief guard, "At least give
me a clean death - a soldier's death." The chief guard nods yes and the
assassin changes position behind Maximus. As the assassin raises his sword, with
speed, Maximus successfully disarms the guard about to kill him, grabbing the
sword with his hands, he fatally stabs him and then turns to the chief guard who
can't remove his sword from his sheath....]
MAXIMUS: The frost. Sometimes it makes the blade stick. [With a roar,
Maximus swings the sword at the guard, cutting him across the face, killing him.
Another guard, on horse, moves forward and the swishing sound of the sword can
be heard as it comes spinning through the air, striking the guard dead. Maximus
turns to the remaining guard who is on horse, drinking from a bottle of whiskey to
warm himself from the cold. Maximus cries out, "Praetorian!" The Praetorian
turns to see Maximus standing with a sword, tosses down the bottle and rides at
him but Maximus swings his sword as the Praetorian passes. Maximus stands ready
to fight again, but the Praetorian falls from his horse, having been fatally wounded.
Maximus has been severely wounded to the arm. Having killed each of the
Praetorian, Maximus takes two horses for his long journey home.]
[After a long run, exhausted, Maximus finally comes to a rest. He sits fireside,
nursing his wound. His mind races with thoughts of his family and of what Marcus
earlier asked him.... "When was the last time you were home, 2 years, 264
days and this morning. Blessed father, watch over them with a ready
sword...with the dignity you have taught me...whisper to them that I live
only to hold them again...my wife and son with a ready sword...for all else
is dust and air...whisper that I live only to hold them again...for all else is
dust and air."]
[SCENE CHANGE - As Maximus continues his journey home on horseback, Maximus
has a vision of his home - wheat fields, his son playing with a white pony while his
wife watches. Suddenly, the vision changes to one of harm, of the Praetorian riding
towards his home, and as they arrive, trampling his son as his wife looks on
helplessly. Maximus regains full consciousness and races to reach his family. The
wound on his arm, bleeding profusely. His horse sweaty, breathing loudly and
exhausted, strains under the run. As he nears his home black smoke of fires over
his home can be seen. His horse, spent, gives out from under him and falls with a
thunderous thud, throwing Maximus to the dirt as he groans heavily. The vision was
an actuality. Maximus struggles to stand and stumbles the remainder of the way to
his home. As he nears the home, he views bodies burnt, everything destroyed,
fields smoking. In the distant, he sees two bodies hanging overhead. As he
approaches he can identify the bodies to be of his wife and son. He falls to his
knees, crying in disbelief and anguish. He manages to stand and comes closer,
tenderly touching his wife's feet, caressing them as though to comfort her. He falls
to the ground and passes out from the grief.]
[A Bedouin troupe come across the scene and find Maximus' body, lying on top of
the two graves of his wife and son. They are heard to say, "Hada mish huy?"
(This one's not alive?) ... "Ma adri" (I don't know.) ... "Huy!" (He's alive!) ...
"kalbash'hu'" (shackle him) ... "Hada mish huy" (this one is still alive).]
[The Bedouin whisk him away. Maximus finds himself on a wagon. He is slipping in
and out of consciousness and into the after life. A sound startles him and he comes
back to this life. He is dazed and hallucinating. Scenes of him chained and scenes of
the figurines of his wife and son quickly flash across his mind. The soft voice of a
Numidian slave (later to be known as Juba), is heard "you will meet them again,
but not yet." Maximus looks at his wound which is infested with maggots. He
begins to remove them and Juba says, "No, they will clean it. Wait and see."
The caravan carrying the slaves winds it way through the vast desert. Juba,
watching over the new slave, cautions him, "Don't die. They will feed you to the
lions. They are worth more than we." [As Maximus looks at his wound, Juba
says,] "Better now? Clean. See?" Juba places poultice on the gaping wound.]
[SCENE CHANGE - In Zucchabar, a Roman Province, at the bazaar. Proximo sits at
a table, and the Slave Trader approaches Proximo to greet him....]
SLAVE TRADER: Proximo, old friend. Today is your most fortunate day.
[Proximo mistrustingly looks at the slave trader and grabs the trader's crotch. The
trader looks startled, and in pain.]
PROXIMO: Those giraffes you sold me, they won't mate. They just walk
around eating, not mating. You sold me queer giraffes. I want my money
back.
SLAVE TRADER: Not a chance. [He grunts as Proximo squeezes tighter.] I'll
give do special price for you! 
PROXIMO: On what? 
SLAVE TRADER: Have you seen my new stock? Come and see them.
[Proximo looks back and releases him with one final squeeze. Together they walk
towards the market place.]
[SCENE CHANGE - to the market where the slaves await sale.]
PROXIMO: Do any of them fight? I have a match coming up.
SLAVE TRADER: Some are good for fighting, others for dying. You need
both, I think.
PROXIMO: [to the Numidian slave] Get up! [Proximo examines him, slapping his
body to check his muscles.]
PROXIMO: What was your trade?
JUBA: I was a hunter.
SLAVE TRADER: No, no, I bought him from a salt mine in Carthage. [The
slave trader quickly and nervously tells him to sit down. Proximo continues to
inspect the other slaves.]
PROXIMO [Maximus sits on the dirt, weak and lifeless. Proximo pokes at his
gashed arm alongside the SPQR insignia]: The mark of the legion...deserter? 
SLAVE TRADER: Maybe. Who cares? He's a Spaniard.
PROXIMO: I will take 6 for 1,000. 
SLAVE TRADER: 1,000?! The Numidian alone is worth 2,000! 
PROXIMO: These slaves are rotten! 
SLAVE TRADER: It adds to the flavour!
[Proximo begins to walk away.]
SLAVE TRADER: No, no, wait, wait, wait! We can negotiate.
PROXIMO: I'll give you 2,000 and another 4 for the beasts. That's 5,000 for
an old friend.
[SCENE CHANGE - Proximo's slaves carry him on sedan. Proximo impatiently
ordering them to hurry.]
PROXIMO: Come on, how long does it take to get into my own house?
[In front of the line of slaves, as they are being dusted with lime for pests and
disease, Proximo addresses the slaves. As this takes place, a lion is seen in a cage
as he is being fed human parts, while vultures tear at the remains of a pile of
corpses. Other slaves are exercising their skills as one is seen getting impaled with
an arrow.]
PROXIMO: I am Proximo. I shall be closer to you for the next few days,
which will be the last of your miserable lives, than that bitch of a mother
that brought you screaming into this world. I did not pay good money for
you for your company, I paid it so that I could profit from your death and
as your mother was there at your beginning, so I shall be there at your end.
And when you die, and die you shall, your transition shall be to the sound
of [applauding] ...Gladiators, I salute you.
[SCENE CHANGE - Training at Proximo's camp as each slave goes up for a test of
skill. Proximo can be heard calling out "Red" ... "Yellow".]
[The next fighter is Juba who picks up the wooden sword given to them for their
testing and fiercely fights back as Hagen tests him.]
HAGEN: Good.
PROXIMO: Red [Juba looks at Hagen with honour at having won red.]
HAGEN: Spaniard! [Maximus curiously looks at Hagen, walks up and tosses the
sword to the ground --Maximus refuses to fight. With Proximo's approval, Hagen
slams his sword into Maximus' stomach causing Maximus to collapse, but he stands
back up in defiance. Hagen hits him a second time and Maximus falls to the ground.
Proximo stops Hagen as he is about to make the third blow, calling out "That is
enough for the moment. His time will come." Maximus looks at Hagen with a
slight grin and turns and walks away.]
HAGEN: Next.
[SCENE CHANGE - where the slaves are kept, Juba kneels at the doorway, looks in
at Maximus, the "Spaniard", and asks ... ]
JUBA: Spaniard, why don't you fight? We all have to fight. [Maximus looks at
Juba, as he continues to scrape the Legion Mark (SPQR) from his arm with a sharp
stone. The pain of his efforts clearly read in his expression‎.]
JUBA: Is that a sign of your gods? 
[Maximus nods, with a slight sense of humour at the question.]
JUBA: Will that not anger them? 
[Maximus nods again, his smile very wry as he continues to painfully scrape the
insignia from his flesh.]
[SCENE CHANGE - The slaves, shackled together to a pole, walk through the
market place where dyed red yarn hangs overhead, dripping onto them as they
make their way to the arena. A white bull is seen with red dye poured along its
back. Proximo walks under a large umbrella, to protect him from the dripping dye.]
HAGEN [to Maximus] : The gods favour you. Red is the gods' colour. You will
need their help today.
[At the arena, under the bleachers, the crowd can be heard stamping their feet,
cheering. Proximo gives the gladiators a talk of encouragement (after all, they are
there to make him money) before they go out for their first fight. "Some of you
are thinking you won't fight, some that you can't. They all say that until
they are out there. Thrust this into another man's flesh" demonstrating with
a sword "and they will applaud and love you for that. You...you may begin
to love them for that." He slams the blade into the table. "Ultimately, we're all
dead men, sadly we cannot choose how, BUT we can decide how we meet
that end in order that we are remembered as men."]
[Maximus listens intently, he bends down and picks up a handful of dirt, rubbing it
between his hands. He has decided to fight. He will not lose the honour of being a
man. They are paired off - red with yellow. Maximus is paired with Juba. Hagen is
paired with a frail and frightened slave. Standing in the gateway before they enter
the arena, the frightened slave in front of Maximus loses control from fear and
relieves himself down his leg. Maximus views this and steps back. Hagen is seen
closing his eyes, perhaps in prayer before he enters.]
[The door to the arena is thrown open and the first fighter (with spiked hair) runs
face first into the morning star which is swung by one of the armoured opponents.
Blood splatters everywhere. The fighters pan out and everyone runs into the arena.
Proximo runs to the edge of the arena to look down onto his fighters--sizing them
up for skill. Juba starts to follow an opponent but Maximus quickly takes control of
the fight, pulling Juba back. Meanwhile, Hagen is with the frightened slave who is
screaming in fear and crouching down while Hagen fights. Then the opponent
thrusts his sword into the frightened slave, who falls down dead. Hagen, needing to
be free from the corpse, cuts away the chained hand and uses it to swing as a
weapon.]
[As the fights continue, Hagen lifts and plants another opponent on the horns which
adorn the arena. Maximus fights with his shield, Juba with a sword. When the final
opponent is reached, Juba, is standing behind Maximus with his hand on Maximus'
shoulder. The muscular opponent, heavily masked and carrying a trident, stands
fiercely against Maximus and Juba. Maximus turns the trident back into the
opponent and together, Maximus and Juba spear him in the gut. The opponent
withdraws the trident from his own body and goes back on the attack. Maximus and
Juba, working as one, run at the opponent, using the chain that joins them, to cut
him at the throat, knocking him to the ground. Maximus, Juba and Hagen, and the
remaining slaves, stand exhausted in the arena while the crowd roars.]
[SCENE CHANGE - grand view of Rome as seen from the steps of the Senate. The
Roman troops have formed along the streets, people are cheering (yet there is a
small faction seen angrily yelling in dispute). The senators stand at the steps of the
Senate, waiting, Lucius at their side, as the new Caesar and Lucilla enter on chariot
surrounded by Praetorian....]
GRACCHUS: He enters Rome like a conquering hero. But what has he
conquered?
FALCO: Give him time. He's young. I think he could do very well.
GRACCHUS: For Rome or for you?
GRACCHUS: Go to your mother, Lucius. It's what she would want.
LUCIUS: Mother!
LUCILLA: Lucius. [Lucius and Lucilla embrace.]
COMMODUS: Senators.
FALCO: Rome greets her new Emperor. Your loyal subjects bid you
welcome, Highness.
COMMODUS: Thank you, Falco, and for the loyal subjects. I trust they were
not too expensive.
GRACCHUS: Rome rejoices in your return. There are many matters that
require your attention.
[SCENE CHANGE - to the Senate where all the senators are gathered. Senator
Gracchus is speaking while Commodus, seemingly bored and gaining impatient, sits,
twirling the tip of his sword on the marbled floor.]
GRACCHUS: Caesar, the Senate has prepared a series of protocol to
address the many problems in the city, beginning with basic sanitation for
the Greek quarter to combat the plague which is already springing up there.
So... [As Gracchus continues with his speech, Commodus interrupts him....]
COMMODUS: Shhhhhh. Don't you see Gracchus. That's the very problem,
isn't it. My father spent all his time at study, reading books, learning his
philosophy. He spent his twilight hours reading scrolls from the Senate. All
the while, the people were forgotten.
GRACCHUS: The Senate is the people, Sire, chosen from the people, to
speak for the people.
COMMODUS: I doubt if many people eat so well as you do, Gracchus, or
have such splendid mistresses as you, Gaius. I think I understand my own
people.
GRACCHUS: Perhaps Caesar would be so kind as to teach us, out of his own
extensive experience. [A slight laughter from the Senators is heard.]
COMMODUS: I call it love. The people are my children and I their father. I
shall hold them to my bosom and embrace them tightly....
GRACCHUS [as he interrupts]: Have you ever embraced someone dying of
plague, Sire?
[Commodus stops. His sword held behind his head, with both hands, as though to
be resting his head on it. Slowly turning around, he looks at Gracchus. Lucilla,
sensing potential danger, rises to intervene. A lethal moment.]
COMMODUS: No. But if you interrupt me again, I assure you that you shall.
[He leaves the Senate and returns to the palace.]
LUCILLA: Senator, my brother is very tired. Leave the list with me. Your
Emperor will do all that Rome requires.
GRACCHUS: My lady, as always your lightest touch commands obedience.
[SCENE CHANGE - at the Palace, Lucilla returning from the Senate.]
COMMODUS: Who are they to lecture me?
LUCILLA: Commodus, the senate has its uses.
COMMODUS: What uses? All they do is talk. It should be just and you, and
Rome. 
LUCILLA: Don't even think it, Commodus. There has always been a
senate....
COMMODUS: Rome has changed. It takes an Emperor to rule an empire.
LUCILLA: Of course, but leave the people their....
COMMODUS: Illusions?.
LUCILLA: ...traditions.
COMMODUS: My father's war against the barbarians, he said himself it
achieved nothing. But people still loved him.
LUCILLA: People always love victories.
COMMODUS: But why? They don't see the battles? What do they care about
Germania?
LUCILLA: They care about the greatness of Rome.
COMMODUS: Greatness of Rome? But what is that?
LUCILLA: It's an idea, greatness. Greatness is a vision.
COMMODUS: Exactly. A vision. Do you not see, Lucilla? I will give the
people a vision and they will love me for it. They will soon forget the
tedious sermonizing of a few dry old men. I will give them the greatest
vision of their lives.
[SCENE CHANGE - between Gaius and Gracchus at a restaurant, discussing the
games which Commodus revived to lure the mob. Outside can be seen a juggler,
merchants calling out their wares, and the crowd visiting and moving about.]
GAIUS: Games! 150 days of games!
GRACCHUS: He's cleverer than I thought.
GAIUS: Clever? The whole of Rome would be laughing at him if they
weren't in fear of his Praetorian.
GRACCHUS: Fear and wonder. A powerful combination.
GAIUS: Will the people really be seduced by that?
GRACCHUS: I think he knows what Rome is. Rome is the mob. He will
conjure magic for them and they will be distracted. He will take away their
freedom, and still they will roar. The beating heart of Rome is not the
marble of the Senate, it is the sand of the Colosseum. He will give them
death, and they will love him for it.
[SCENE CHANGE...back at Zucchabar. The gladiators are sitting in a cage waiting
for their turn to fight in the arena. "Spaniard, Spaniard, Spaniard" can be heard
from the crowds-Maximus has gained the popularity of the crowd as well as a name
for himself--Spaniard. Maximus stands and walks through the cage as the other
gladiators call out "Spaniard", as he makes his way to the arena. Maximus enters
the ring as the chants "Spaniard, Spaniard" continue. When Maximus steps
through the door the crowd becomes silent, the opponents step back. Maximus
pauses and slightly bows his head. Then he wades into them as the crowd cheers
loudly. The opponents each wait to take on Maximus. Without hesitation, Maximus
charges forward and machine-like and without emotion, takes on and disposes of
each opponent, one at a time. The final opponent has his head cut off by Maximus
as he uses two swords to scissor cut his neck.]
[Having quickly and soundly defeated his opposition, Maximus looks up at the
crowd, bloody swords still in hand. He hurls one sword high into the stands, striking
a table, startling all nearby. Then, calling out to the now silenced crowd, Maximus
screams at them, "ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED??!! ARE YOU NOT
ENTERTAINED??!! Is this not why you are here??" The crowd silenced,
Maximus throws the other sword to the ground, spitting in disgust and begins to
leave the arena. The crowd cheers uncontrollably. Maximus slows his pace, looking
at them in amazement and curiosity. "Spaniard, Spaniard, Spaniard,
Spaniard." ]
[SCENE CHANGE - At Proximo's quarters. Maximus standing nearby.
PROXIMO: What do you want? Hmmmm? Girl? Boy? 
MAXIMUS: You sent for me? [Standing straight, as though at attention.]
PROXIMO: Yes I did. You are good, Spaniard, but you're not that good. You
could be magnificent. 
MAXIMUS: I am required to kill so I kill. That is enough. 
PROXIMO: That's enough for the provinces but not for Rome [as he feeds his
caged hyena]. The young Emperor has arranged a series of spectacles to
commemorate his father, Marcus Aurelius. I find that amusing since it was
Marcus Aurelius, the wise, the all knowing Marcus Aurelius, who closed us
down. So finally after 5 years of scratching a living in flea infested villages
we are finally going back to where we belong, the Colosseum. [He breaths
deeply, as though he could smell the Colosseum.] Oh you should see the
Colosseum, Spaniard. 50,000 Romans watching every movement of your
sword, willing you to make the killer blow. The silence before you strike,
and the noise afterwards, it rises, rises up like...like...like a storm, as
though you were the Thunder God himself. 
MAXIMUS: You were a gladiator? 
PROXIMO: Yes, I was [responding nervously but proudly in the memory of his
time gone by].
MAXIMUS: You won your freedom? 
PROXIMO: Long time ago the old emperor Marcus Aurelius presented me
with a Rudius - it's just a wooden sword, a symbol for your freedom. He
touched me on the shoulder once, and I was free. 
MAXIMUS: You knew Marcus Aurelius? [Maximus asks loudly, laughing as he
speaks, doubting that Proximo could have known such a man.]
PROXIMO: I did not say that I knew him. I said he touched me on the
shoulder once.
[Maximus comes closer to Proximo, lowering his voice as he speaks.]
MAXIMUS: You asked me what I want. I, too, want to stand in front of the
Emperor, as you did.
[Raising his left eyebrow.]
PROXIMO: Then listen to me. Learn from me. I wasn't the best because I
killed quickly. I was the best because the crowd loved me. Win the crowd,
win your freedom. 
[Maximus stands at attention as the soldier he was for so many years, but at the
thought of freedom he is indifferent for without his family, what is freedom?]
MAXIMUS: I will win the crowd. I will give them something they have
never seen before. 
PROXIMO: Haaa! So, Spaniard, we shall go to Rome together and have
bloody adventures and the great whore will suckle us until we are fat and
happy and can suckle no more. And then, when enough men have died,
perhaps you will have your freedom. Here, use this.... [Proximo tosses
Maximus a body shield of armour. As Maximus leaves, Proximo turns to look out
the window, raising his arms in jubilee.]
[SCENE CHANGE to a rooftop, the slaves talk with each other. Juba and Maximus,
alone, together....]
JUBA: It is somewhere out there, my country, my home. My wife is
preparing food. My daughters carry water from the river. Will I ever see
them again. I think not. 
MAXIMUS: Do you believe that you will see them again when you die? 
JUBA: I think so, but then, I will die soon. They will not die for many years.
I will have to wait. 
MAXIMUS: But you would...wait? 
JUBA: Of course. 
MAXIMUS: You see, my wife and my son are already waiting for me. 
JUBA: You will meet them again. But not yet. [Juba takes Maximus' hand as if
to assure him that the time will come.] Not yet. 
MAXIMUS: Not yet. Not yet.
[SCENE CHANGE - on the road to Rome, the wagon carrying the gladiators rolls
along while children run to the side of the road to witness the caravan. In the
distant, Rome and the Colosseum.]
[Gladiators have arrived in Rome for their first time. As their wagon pulls into the
gladiator school, the guard opens the wagon gates and they disembark, gazing in
awe at the Colosseum. Proximo walks up to the statue of Mars, kissing his hand
and then planting the kiss on the feet of the statue. "Good to see you again, old
friend.... Bring me fortune." The gladiators, stare up at the Colosseum....]
JUBA: Did you ever see anything like that before? I didn't know man could
build such things.
PROXIMO [He walks towards the gladiators, looking at Maximus] : Win the
crowd.
[SCENE CHANGE TO THE PALACE - Commodus is standing over the sleeping Lucius
studying him as he sleeps. Lucilla walks up.]
COMMODUS: He sleeps so well because he is loved. 
LUCILLA: Come brother, it is late.
[Lucilla and Commodus step away and continue their talk. Commodus leans over
his desk.]
COMMODUS: I will make Rome the wonder of the ages. That is what
Gracchus and his friends don't understand. All my desires are splitting my
head into pieces.
LUCILLA: [Has mixed a powdered drink.] Commodus, drink this tonic.
COMMODUS: I think the time is almost right? I could announce the
dissolution of the senate in celebration of our father. Do you think I
should...are the people are ready?
LUCILLA: I think you need your rest now.
COMMODUS: Will you stay with me?
LUCILLA: Still afraid of the dark, brother?
COMMODUS: Still? Always. Stay with me tonight?
LUCILLA: You know I won't.
COMMODUS: Then kiss me. [She kisses his forehead.] 
LUCILLA: Sleep, brother.
[SCENE CHANGE - As gladiators are taken to the Colosseum, they walk through the
crowded streets, shackled together, beautiful prostitutes throw their arms around
them, whispering in their ears as they pass. Maximus, with a look of
embarrassment and amusement, walk past them. Outside the Colosseum, crowds
are betting and posting their marks on a chalk board. Proximo & Cassius discuss
the upcoming fight.]
PROXIMO: The Emperor wants battles and I don't want to sacrifice my best
fighters.
CASSIUS: The crowd wants battles so the Emperor gives them battles. You
get the battle of Carthage.
PROXIMO: The massacre of Carthage! Why don't you get the beggars and
thieves from the prison?
CASSIUS: We've done that.
PROXIMO: If you're going to give away the best gladiators in the empire,
then I want double the rates.
CASSIUS: You will get your contract rates or you will get your contract
canceled. If you don't like it, you can crawl back down that shit hole that
you came from.
[SCENE CHANGE - The Legionnaires of Scipio Africanus battle is in preparation.
Young Lucius is walking along the cells where the gladiators are placed on display
for the crowd's inspection. Lucius stops in front of Proximo's group and motions to
Maximus, where he is seated at the back of his cell. With a glint of surprise and
curiosity, Maximus rises and moves toward Lucius, placing his hands on the bars,
leaning down towards the boy.]
LUCIUS: Gladiator, are you the one they call Spaniard? 
MAXIMUS: Yes. 
LUCIUS: They said you were a giant. They said you can crush a man's skull
with one hand. 
MAXIMUS: Man's? No. A boy's...[he says, teasingly]
LUCIUS: [Eyeing Maximus' chest armour he asks,] They have good horses in
Spain? 
MAXIMUS: Some of the best. This is Argento. This is Scarto [pointing to each
horse]. They were my horses. They were taken from me?. 
LUCIUS: I like you, Spaniard. I shall cheer for you. 
MAXIMUS: They let you watch the games? 
LUCIUS: My uncle says it makes me strong. 
MAXIMUS: And what does your father say? 
LUCIUS: My father is dead. 
SERVANT: Master Lucius, it is time. 
LUCIUS: I have to go. 
MAXIMUS: Your name is Lucius? 
LUCIUS: Lucius Verus. After my father. [Realizing he has come closer to
Commodus, Maximus withdraws into the corner, looking to see who might be in the
crowd.]
[SCENE CHANGE -In the bowels of the Colosseum. As one team of gladiators
descends on the platform lift, Proximo's gladiators are selecting helmets and
receiving spears. Maximus selects an ominous mask-like helmet that covers his face
leaving his eyes to pierce through. The head gladiator calls out instructions before
they enter the arena. "When the Emperor enters, raise your weapons, salute
him and then speak together. Face the Emperor, don't turn your back on
him. Go and die with honour." Maximus takes a deep breath as the gladiators
enter the arena. Trumpets are heard . The crowd is cheering madly. The gladiators
look up, amazed at the overwhelming size of the arena and crowd. The crowd calls
out, "Caesar, Caesar, Caesar". The gladiators position themselves in front of
Caesar, "We who are about to die, salute you". Only one gladiator refuses to
make such a salute -- Maximus.]
CASSIUS [the orator] : On this day we reach back to hallowed antiquity to
bring you a recreation of a second Fall of Mighty Carthage. On the barren
straits of Zama, there stood the invincible armies of the Barbarian Hannibal.
Ferocious mercenaries and warriors from all brute nations bent on
merciless destruction conquest. Your Emperor is pleased to give you THE
BARBARIAN HORDE!
[On the arena floor, Maximus talks to the Gladiators, instructing them.]
MAXIMUS: Anyone here been in the army? 
FELLOW-FIGHTER #1: Yes 
FELLOW-FIGHTER #2: I served with you in Vindobona. 
MAXIMUS: You can help me. Whatever comes out of these gates, we have a
better chance of survival if we work together. Do you understand? We stay
together, we survive.
[Cassius then introduces the "LEGIONNAIRES OF SCIPIO AFRICANUS" as they
barrel into the arena on their glorious chariots. Shouts from the Legionnaires can
be heard as they immediately begin to kill the "Barbarians". Shouts from Maximus
can also be heard - "Come together...lock your shields, stay as
one...hold...hold as one". And then, "Well done" as they successfully defend
themselves from the uneven attack. ]
[ As a chariot heads towards them, Maximus is heard calling out as they huddle
together "Hold. Diamond, diamond." The Barbarians move towards the chariot
as it approaches and with that manoeuver, the chariot is overturned and the
Legionnaires are sent flying to their death. The crowd cheers uncontrollably.]
[ Hagen gets an arrow to the calf and unknowingly stands in the way of a charging
chariot. Maximus calls out to him, then runs and knocks him out of the way, saving
his life. Without hesitation, Maximus continues to call out orders, "This column to
the chariot. This column stay with me." Maximus climbs upon one of the
chariot horses that has been unharnessed and rides with the chariots, attacking the
Legionnaires one by one until most have been disabled or killed. The roar of
Maximus' attack can be heard and he strikes the Legionnaires. All the while,
Commodus sits on his throne, clearly enjoying himself like a child. His mouth falls
open and his tongue laps the air. He tosses his head side to side, laughing in glee.]
[On the arena floor, Hagen is back in place, fighting the Legionnaires. As Maximus
rides, Juba cries out "Maximus" as he tosses him one of the Legionnaires' sword.
Catching the sword, Maximus continues to call orders to the Barbarians, "Single
column, single column..." as they successfully attack and kill the remaining
Legionnaires. Having won the battle, Maximus is seen magnificently atop the white
horse, sword raised in triumph as the cheers from the Barbarians and crowd
explode.]
[Following the battle, in Caesar's box... ] COMMODUS: My history's a little hazy
Cassius, but aren't the Barbarians supposed to lose the battle of Carthage!!
CASSIUS: Yes, Sire. Forgive me, Sire. 
COMMODUS: No, I rather enjoy surprises. Who is that? 
CASSIUS: They call him the Spaniard, Sire. 
COMMODUS: I think I'll meet him.
CASSIUS: Yes, Sire.
[On the arena floor, Praetorian enter and the gladiators stand ready to defend
themselves.]
PRAETORIAN: Drop your weapons.
[Maximus nods to the gladiators and they drop their weapons.]
PRAETORIAN: Gladiator, the Emperor has asked for you. 
MAXIMUS: I'm at the Emperor's service.
[Commodus enters the arena. Maximus eyes an arrow in the dirt amongst the
bloodied debris, kneels to pick it up. The gladiators follow Maximus' action and also
kneel.]
COMMODUS: Rise, rise.
[Lucius enters behind Commodus and Maximus looks disappointed. He does not
want to attempt an attack on Commodus with the boy so close.]
COMMODUS: Your fame is well deserved, Spaniard. I don't think there has
been a gladiator to match you, as for this young man [Commodus cradling
Lucius in front him], he insists you are Hector reborn, or was it Hercules.
Why doesn't the hero reveal himself and tell us all your real name. You do
have a name...?
MAXIMUS: My name is gladiator.
[Maximus slowly turns around and begins to walk back to the other gladiators.]
COMMODUS: How dare you show your back to me, SLAVE. You will remove
your helmet and tell me your name... [The Praetorian take a ready-stand, and
the gladiators, without weapons, move forward ready to fight with Maximus.
Maximus stops, takes a deep breath, removes his helmet, and turns to face
Commodus.] 
MAXIMUS: My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius. Commander of the
armies of the North, general of the Felix Legions, loyal servant to the true
emperor Marcus Aurelius. Father to a murdered son, husband to a
murdered wife, and I will have my vengeance in this life or the next.
[Commodus is clearly in shock and without words. Quintus stands ready.
Commodus stumbles in his actions, slightly turning to Quintus as though seeking
help. Quintus orders "Arms" and the Praetorian pull their swords. Meanwhile, at
Caesar's box, Lucilla has risen to her feet in disbelieving the sight of Maximus and
relieved that he is still alive.]
CROWD: Live, Live, Live, Live...! 
COMMODUS: Shhh! [--in an effort to calm the people. Commodus extends his
hand, struggling to give the thumbs up for he would much prefer to give the
thumbs down. Extending his thumb up, to the pleasure and cheers of the crowd,
Commodus turns and leaves, sending a look to Maximus as though to say this is
not over, and the Praetorian leave, as well. As Maximus looks at Quintus, he holds
his fist to his heart and slightly bows his head, acknowledging an old friend, an old
soldier. Quintus stares back and slowly backs away from Maximus.]
[Maximus raises his helmet in victory and the crowd and other gladiators cheer
wildly. Maximus and the other gladiators exit the arena to be returned to the
underground cells. They are lowered on the platform as the other gladiators salute
the winning "Barbarians", and in particular, Maximus, their cheers and
shouts  "Maximus, Maximus, Maximus" causing the walls and floors to shake.
Maximus stands in the midst of all the gladiators who triumphantly fought and beat
the Legionnaires. A slightly smaller man, yet appearing larger than all.]
[SCENE CHANGES back to the Palace where Commodus is signing papers. Lucilla
walks in. Without looking up, Commodus asks Lucilla, Why is he still alive?]
LUCILLA: I don't know.
COMMODUS: He shouldn't be alive. This vexes me. I am terribly vexed. [He
sits back in his chair.] I did what I had to do. Had father had his way, the
empire would have been torn apart. You do see that?
 
COMMODUS: What did you feel when you saw him?
LUCILLA: [Holding back emotion, she replies,] I felt nothing.
COMMODUS: He wounded you deeply, didn't he?
LUCILLA: No more than I wounded him.
COMMODUS: They lied to me in Germania. They told me he was dead. If
they lie to me they don't respect me. If they don't respect me then how
can they ever love me?
LUCILLA: Then you must let the legions know that treachery will not go
unpunished. 
COMMODUS: Oh, Sister, I wouldn't want to be your enemy.
LUCILLA [pauses and then asks]: What will you do?
[Commodus looks back saying nothing, holding his finger to his lips as though to
say "Shhhh".]
[SCENE CHANGE to the cells where the gladiators are. Maximus is taken from his
cell to another where he is chained. The guards leave and out from a dark corner
appears Lucilla.]
LUCILLA: Rich matrons pay well to be pleasured by the bravest champions. 
MAXIMUS [Viciously responds]: I knew your brother would send assassins. I
didn't realize he would send his best. [He charges at her, the chains restraining
him.]
LUCILLA: Maximus, he doesn't know. 
MAXIMUS: My family was burned and crucified while they were still alive. 
LUCILLA: I knew nothing....
MAXIMUS: Don't lie to me!
LUCILLA: I wept for them. [Maximus quickly reaches out and grabs her by the
throat.]
MAXIMUS: As you wept for your father? As you wept for your father? 
LUCILLA: I have been living in a prison of fear since that day. To be unable
to mourn your father for fear of your brother. To live in terror every
moment of every day, because your son is heir to the throne. Oh, I have
wept. 
MAXIMUS: My son was innocent. 
LUCILLA: So is mine. Must my son die, too, before you can trust me?
[Maximus releases his hold on her throat]
MAXIMUS: What does it matter if I trust you or not? 
LUCILLA: The gods have spared you. Don't you understand? Today I saw a
slave become more powerful than the Emperor of Rome. 
MAXIMUS: The gods have spared me? I am at their mercy with the power
only to amuse a mob. 
LUCILLA: That is power. The mob is Rome. And while Commodus controls
them he controls everything. Listen to me. My brother has enemies, most
of all in the senate. But while the people follow him, no one would dare
stand up to him until you.
MAXIMUS: They oppose him, yet they do nothing.
LUCILLA: There are some politicians who have dedicated their lives to
Rome. One man above all. If I can arrange it, will you meet him? 
MAXIMUS: Do you not understand? I may die in this cell tonight or in the
arena tomorrow. I am a slave! What possible difference can I make?
LUCILLA: This man wants what you want.
MAXIMUS [Roars back,]: Then have him kill Commodus!
LUCILLA: : I knew a man once. A noble man. A man of principles, who
loved my father and my father loved him. This man served Rome well. 
MAXIMUS: That man is gone. Your brother did his work well.
LUCILLA: Let me help you. 
MAXIMUS [lowers his voice in nearly a whisper and steps closer to Lucilla]: Yes.
You can help me. Forget you ever knew me. Never come here again. Guard!
The lady has finished with me. [Lucilla's eyes slightly tear as she stands
helplessly, staring at Maximus.]
[SCENE CHANGE to the gladiator school. Gladiators sit at a table playing a game
with a cobra snake. Maximus, Juba and Hagen sit at a table, together. Juba is
eating his bread and beans.]
HAGEN: Maximus, you commanded legions? Had many victories?
MAXIMUS: Yes. 
HAGEN: In Germania? 
MAXIMUS: In many countries.
[The cook calls out "General" and Maximus goes to him where he is handed a bowl
of beans. Maximus returns to the table. Sensing the watchful eye of Juba, he looks
up to see Juba shaking his head "no". Maximus holds back and does not eat the
food. Hagen, seeing that Maximus is cautious about the food, takes his own spoon
and dips it into Maximus' bowl, and then placing the spoon in his own mouth.
Hagen suddenly begins to gasp and choke, he grabs his throat and then begins to
laugh. Juba and Maximus laugh with relief. Maximus returns to his food but looks
up at Juba with a look of doubt...not for that moment but for what lies ahead.]
JUBA: You have a great name. He must kill your name before he kills you.
[SCENE CHANGE - at the Colosseum, as the senators are gathering for the
upcoming fight .]
FALCO: Senator Gracchus. I don't often see you enjoying the pleasures of
the vulgar crowd.
GRACCHUS: Well. I do not pretend to be a man of the people, Senator. But
I do try to be a man for the people.
[Wagons enter the arena tossing bread and fruit at the crowd. Caesar enters the
arena, accepting the cheers from the crowd. Atop in the stands, stands Cassius, as
he introduces the upcoming fight while the crowd calls out, "Caesar, Caesar,
Caesar."]
CASSIUS: People of Rome. On the 4th day of Antioch, we can celebrate the
64th day of the games. And in his majestic charity, the Emperor has named
this day to favour the people of Rome with an historical final match.
Returning to the Colosseum today after five years in retirement, Caesar, is
pleased to bring you the only undefeated champion in Roman history, the
legendary...Tigris of Gaul!
[Out from the tunnel comes Tigris on his grand chariot, wearing a full headed, silver
helmet. And in the crowd Cicero, Maximus' servant from the Germania battle, sits
anxiously, waiting to see Maximus.]
[SCENE CHANGE to the bowels of the Colosseum where the gladiators are held as
they wait their turn in the arena. Maximus stands in the tunnel, shadows cast
darkly upon him, as he practices, agile as he is, with his sword awaiting his
entrance to the arena. Proximo, standing at the bottom of the tunnel with the other
fighters, calls up to Maximus and Maximus calls back.]
PROXIMO: He knows too well how to manipulate a mob.
MAXIMUS: Marcus Aurelius had a dream that was Rome, Proximo. This is
not it. This is not it! 
PROXIMO: Marcus Aurelius is dead, Maximus. We mortals are but shadows
and dust, shadows and Dust, Maximus.
[Maximus stands ready to enter the arena, the voice of the announcer, Cassius, can
be heard, "Representing the training lyceum of Antonius Proximo, Caesar is
proud to give you Aelius Maximus." With that, Maximus trots out on the arena
floor, shield in one hand, sword in the other. The crowd cheers.]
[Commodus, Lucilla, Lucius and Quintus watch from Caesar's box as Maximus and
Tigris are introduced to the crowd. On the arena floor, Maximus plants his sword in
the sand and bends down in his ritual way, to collect in his hands a sampling of dirt.
Cicero is again seen in the stands, this time, slightly smiling, relieved to see the
General. At Caesar's box, Lucilla holds back all emotion. The crowd calling out,
"Maximus, Maximus, Maximus."]
COMMODUS: They embrace him like he's one of their own.
LUCILLA: The mob is fickle brother. He'll be forgotten in a month.
COMMODUS: No, much sooner than that. It has been arranged.
[Back on the arena floor, Tigris turns to Caesar's box, with swords crossed, he bows,
"We who are about to die salute you." Maximus stands by, showing no salute
whatsoever. As Maximus gets ready to fight the large doors to the arena are thrown
open, surprising Maximus. From each door emerges a team of men, who run into
the arena. Each team picks up a chain from the sand. Maximus becomes distracted.
Tigris kicks sand into Maximus' face and begins the fight. As the fight continues and
as Maximus is thrown to the ground, a trap door opens and out jumps a large tiger,
pouncing at the fighting gladiators. Maximus is now having to escape the claws of
the tigers as he battles Tigris. Maximus' roars can be heard as he does battle. In
the background can be heard "loose, loose, loose" and "pull, pull, pull" as the
handlers coordinate their efforts in handling each of the tigers that are now on the
arena floor growling and charging at Maximus.]
[Maximus manages to disarm Tigris, switching his sword from one hand to the
other, Maximus stands ready to finish off Tigris. Suddenly, a fourth tiger jumps out
of a trap door and jumps at Maximus. In that split second, Maximus turns and the
tiger is speared with his sword. Maximus is thrown to the sand as the large beast
lays atop him. Maximus stabs the beast repeatedly, killing it. The crowds cheer
wildly. Tigris moves in for an attack. Maximus, on his back with the beast still on
him, manages to grab Tigris' own hatchet and with great force spikes him in the
foot. Tigris bends over in pain, blood pouring from the opening of his mask.
Maximus stands and kicks Tigris over to the ground. He is finished. The crowd
cheers "kill, kill, kill". With ax in hand, standing over the fallen Tigris, Maximus
looks up at Commodus. The Emperor is clearly disappointed that his plan has failed.
Commodus stands, arm extended and slowly shows a "thumb down". Maximus
unmasks Tigris and lifts the hatchet over his head, ready to kill Tigris when he
suddenly tosses the hatchet aside--in defiance of Commodus but, also, finished
with the senseless killing. From the crowd can be heard "Maximus, Maximus the
merciful." Commodus displays a hint of a false smile as though to prevent the
crowd from truly knowing the hate he feels for Maximus and to guard himself from
his failure. Commodus leaves the box.]
[Maximus is about to exit the arena, the Praetorian enter and encircle him as
Commodus enters the arena to boos from the crowd and approaches Maximus.]
COMMODUS: What am I going to do with you, you simply won't...die. Are
we so different, you and I? You take life when you have to, as I do.
[Exhausted from the fight, Maximus stares at him.]
MAXIMUS: I only have one life left to take and then it is done. 
COMMODUS: Then take it now.
[Maximus turns to walk away....]
COMMODUS: They tell me your son (Maximus slowly turns to him) squealed
like a girl when they nailed him to the cross.... And your wife, moaned like
a whore when they ravaged her again, and again, and again.
MAXIMUS [ exhibiting extreme but calm restraint]: The time for honouring
yourself will soon be at an end, Highness.
[Maximus slowly turns away from Commodus, the Praetorian step aside and let
Maximus pass. He leaves the arena.]
CROWD: Maximus, Maximus, Maximus....
[SCENE CHANGE to the streets as Maximus is taken by two guards, back to the
gladiator school. They pass through the streets adjacent the Colosseum. A large
crowd of fans are waiting for him, chanting his name and waving banners. Amongst
the crowd is Cicero. Cicero tries to catch the attention of Maximus, his arm
stretched out, holding a small leather pouch.]
CICERO: General! General!
[At last, Maximus sees him and with joy, calls back "Cicero!" Cicero runs through
the crowd, trying to get closer to his master. He manages to get in touch with him,
hiding behind a prostitute trying to get Maximus' attention.]
MAXIMUS: Where are you camped?
CICERO: Ostia !
MAXIMUS: Tell the men the general lives. Find me, find me! [As the guards
pull Maximus away from Cicero, Cicero manages to give Maximus the pouch he was
carrying. Maximus hides it inside his palms.]
[Later, in his cell, Maximus opens the leather pouch handed to him by Cicero, inside
he finds the two figurines of his wife and son. He kisses them tenderly, looking at
the figurine of his wife, as though she were there. Juba approaches.]
JUBA: Can they hear you?
[Maximus turns his head towards Juba, his eyes moist from the happiness of his
reunion with his family through the figurines and responds to Juba.]
MAXIMUS: Who?
JUBA: Your family, in the after life?
MAXIMUS: Oh, yes.
JUBA: What do you say to them ?
MAXIMUS: To my boy, I tell him I will see him again soon, and to keep his
heels down when he's riding his horse. [Maximus continues with a smile,] To
my wife...that is not your business.
[Together they laugh. Maximus holds tight his belongings, sending a look of victory
to Juba. A look of peace on his face as he clutches the figurines.]
[SCENE CHANGE - back at the Palace, Commodus, in a child-like pouty fashion, is
talking with Senator Falco.]
COMMODUS: And now they love Maximus for his mercy, so I can't kill him
or it makes him even more merciful. The whole thing is like a
great...nightmare.
FALCO: He is defying you. His every victory is an act of defiance, the mob
sees this, and so do the Senate. Every day he lives they grow bolder. Kill
him!
COMMODUS: No! I will not make a martyr of him.
FALCO: I have been told of a certain sea snake which has a very unusual
method of attracting its prey. It will lie at the bottom of the ocean as if
wounded, then its enemies will approach and yet it will lie quite still and
then its enemies will take little bites of it and yet it remains still.
COMMODUS: So, we will lie still and let our enemies come to us and
nibble. ...have every senator followed.
[SCENE CHANGE - The following day, gladiators are training inside the gladiator
school. Maximus walks through the camp, making his way to a gate where the
crowds watch the gladiators on display. Maximus passes a guard who calls him by
name. Maximus nods in recognition of the guard. (Maximus is admired by all, even
those who watch guard over him.) Maximus reaches the gate where Cicero is
waiting. Placing his hand behind Cicero's head, he says]
MAXIMUS: Cicero, my old friend! I thought I had seen you for the last time.
CICERO: We thought you were dead!
MAXIMUS: Close. How long have the men been in Ostia?
CICERO: All winter.
MAXIMUS: How do they look?
CICERO: Fat and bored.
MAXIMUS: Who is in command?
CICERO: Some fool from Rome
MAXIMUS: How soon do you think they could be ready to fight? 
CICERO: For you, tomorrow.
MAXIMUS: I need you to do something for me.
[SCENE CHANGE -- In the city at the bazaar, as Cicero waits, anxiously looking
about the street, a children's play is underway -- A Cassius impersonator entertains
the crowd, "Come! Be seated. If you haven't been in the arena, you can see
it from here. The Giant Maximus is defeating our Emperor Commodus.
What are we do to?" The crowd laughs and cheers.]
[Suddenly, Cicero eyes Lucilla as she is carried on her litter through the crowd. He
runs to meet them. ]
CICERO: M'lady! I served your father at Vindebona!
GUARD: Back!
CICERO: M'lady, I served your father at Vindebona.
GUARD: Back!
CICERO: And then served the General Maximus. I serve him still!
LUCILLA [to her escort]: Stop! Stop! Stand back!
CICERO kneeling beside her, whispering]: The General sends word, he will
meet your politician.
LUCILLA [gives him two golden coins]: For your loyalty, soldier. 
CICERO: Thank you M'lady.
[SCENE CHANGE - Gladiator cells. Maximus has been brought to a central room by
Proximo.]
LUCILLA: Leave us. Senator Gracchus. 
GRACCHUS: [Enters the room]: General. I hope my coming here today is
enough evidence that you can trust me.]
MAXIMUS: The Senate is with you? 
GRACCHUS: The senate? Yes I can speak for them. 
MAXIMUS: You can buy my freedom and smuggle me out of Rome?
GRACCHUS: To what end?
MAXIMUS: Get me outside the city. Have fresh horses ready to take me to
Ostia. My army is encamped there. By nightfall of the second day I shall
return at the head of 5,000 men. 
LUCILLA: But the legion is under new commanders, Loyal to Commodus. 
MAXIMUS: When my men see me alive you shall see where their loyalties
lies. 
GRACCHUS: This is madness. No army has entered Rome for 100 years. I
will not trade one dictatorship for another. 
MAXIMUS: Time for half measures and talk is over. Senator. ... 
GRACCHUS: So, after your glorious coup, what then? You will take your
5,000 warriors and leave? 
MAXIMUS: I will leave. The soldiers will stay for your protection, under the
command of the senate. 
GRACCHUS: So, once all of Rome is yours, you'll just give it back to the
people. Tell me why? 
MAXIMUS [he turns to Lucilla] : Because that was the last wish of a dying
man. [He turns back to Gracchus.] I will kill Commodus, the fate of Rome, I
leave to you. 
GRACCHUS: Marcus Aurelius trusted you. His daughter trusts you. I will
trust you. But we have little time. Give me two days and I will buy your
freedom. And you, you stay alive. Or I will be dead. Now I must go.
[SCENE CHANGE to Proximo's quarters where Maximus is speaking with him...]
PROXIMO: This won't work. The emperor knows too much. And as for me,
it's becoming dangerous. [A soldier is seen outside, attempting to overhear their
talk.]
MAXIMUS: You will be paid on my return. I give you my word.
PROXIMO: Your word! What if you don't return?
MAXIMUS: Do you remember what it was to have trust, Proximo? 
PROXIMO: Who am I to trust? 
MAXIMUS: I will kill Commodus. 
PROXIMO: Why do I want that. He makes me rich. I know, Maximus, that
you are a man of your word, General. I know that you would die for honour.
You would die for Rome. You would die for the memory of your ancestors.
But I, on the other hand, am an entertainer. Guard!
MAXIMUS [as he leaves Proximo, he turns back to say...] : He killed the man
who set you free.
[SCENE CHANGE - Senator Gracchus is seen at his home feeding chickens and
ducks. A servant is near and warns the senator, "Praetorian, Master" as he sees
their approach.]
[SCENE CHANGE - Lucilla walks into the Palace and finds Commodus. She attempts
to leave but he stops her.]
COMMODUS: Where have you been? I sent for you.
LUCILLA: Please, brother. What troubles you?
COMMODUS: Does Gracchus have a new lover?
LUCILLA: I don't know.
COMMODUS: I thought you had seen him. He infects everyone like a putrid
fever. For the health of Rome, the Senate must be bled and he will be bled
too, very soon.
LUCILLA: But not tonight.
COMMODUS: Do you remember what our father once said? It's a dream, a
frightful dream...life is. Do you think that is true?
LUCILLA: I don't know.
COMMODUS: I think it is. And I have only you to share it with. [Lucilla comes
closer, to comfort him. Commodus lays his head against her shoulder. He leans her
back and lays her on the bed. With terror in her eyes, she lays still, fearful of what
might happen. Commodus gently puts his finger to her mouth and tells her "open
your mouth". Hesitantly she opens her mouth slightly as he places his finger to
her lips and then to his. He presses his head to her shoulder and says "you know
I love you." She replies, "and I love you." She lays still, her fear mounting at
the thought of what may occur but Commodus soon lays his head down and falls
asleep. Lucilla gently and quietly gets up and leaves.]
[SCENE CHANGE - back at Proximo's as he brings Lucilla to Maximus' cell.
"Congratulations, General. You have very persuasive friends", Proximo calls
to Maximus. Proximo barks orders to the other gladiators to leave. They look to
Maximus for approval and he gives it to them with a nod of the head.] 
LUCILLA: My brother has had Gracchus arrested. We dared not wait any
longer. You must leave tonight. Proximo will come at midnight and take
you to the gate. Your servant Cicero will be waiting with horses. 
MAXIMUS: You have done all this?
LUCILLA: Yes.
MAXIMUS: You risk too much. 
LUCILLA: I have much to pay for.
MAXIMUS: You have nothing to pay for. You love your son. You are strong
for him. 
LUCILLA: I am tired of being strong. My brother hates all the world. And
you, most of all. 
MAXIMUS: Because your father chose me. 
LUCILLA: No, because my father loved you. And because I loved you. 
MAXIMUS: A long time ago. [Maximus tenderly takes her hand and kisses it.] 
LUCILLA: Was I very different then? 
MAXIMUS (Gently stroking her face): You laughed more. 
LUCILLA: I have felt alone all my life, except with you. I must go.
MAXIMUS: Yes. [They exchange a long tender kiss.]
[SCENE CHANGE - at the Palace, Lucius playing swords with the tall African
servants, "there, there, there, there and there, and I've got you," proclaims
Lucius. Commodus is awakened from his sleep, goes to Lucius and takes one of the
wooden swords from the servant. He begins to play swords with Lucius.]
COMMODUS: Isn't it late to be playing legionnaire?
LUCIUS: I am not a legionnaire.
COMMODUS: Not a legionnaire?
LUCIUS: I am a gladiator.
COMMODUS: A gladiator? Gladiators only fight in the games. Wouldn't you
prefer to be a brave Roman warrior like Julius Caesar? 
LUCIUS: I am Maximus, the savior of Rome. [Commodus kneels in front of
Lucius. His wooden sword slipping on the marble floor.]
COMMODUS: The savior of Rome. And who said that? [Lucius whispers in his
ear. Commodus holds him tighter and tighter as he hears.]
[SCENE CHANGE - Lucilla returns to the palace and asks her servant where Lucius
is. She replies, "He's with the Emperor, M'lady." She quickly leaves in search of
Lucius. She walks to Commodus' room and as she approaches, she can hear
Commodus talking with Lucius. Lucilla slows down to listen and then quickly walks
to join them as she hears them talk.] 
LUCIUS: ...she couldn't have.
COMMODUS: Yes, she did. She took it from a basket, pressed it to her
breast, right here above the heart. hissss 
LUCIUS: And it bit her in the breast?!
COMMODUS: Yes. Sometimes royal ladies behave very strangely and do
very odd things in the name of love.
LUCIUS: I think it's silly. 
COMMODUS: So do I, so do I.
[Commodus sees Lucilla enter the room.]
COMMODUS: Sister...join us. I've been reading to dear Lucius. 
LUCIUS: I've been reading, too. 
COMMODUS: Yes, he's a very clever little boy. He'll make a grand Emperor
one day.
[Lucilla looks astonished.]
COMMODUS: We've been reading about the great Marc Anthony and his
adventures in Egypt. 
LUCIUS: And the Queen killed herself with a snake! 
COMMODUS [to Lucius]: And just wait until you hear what happened to our
other ancestors! If you're very good, tomorrow night I'll tell you the story
of Emperor Claudius. He was betrayed, by those closest to him ... by his
own blood ... they whispered in dark corners and went out late at night
and conspired and conspired ....   
[Lucilla is getting frightened, nearly in tears.]
COMMODUS: But the Emperor knew they were up to something. He knew
they were busy little bees. And one night he sat down with one of them
and he looked at her and he said, "Tell me what you have been doing, busy
little bee, or I shall strike down those dearest to you. You shall watch as I
bathe in their blood." And the emperor was heartbroken. The little bee had
wounded him more deeply than anyone had ever done. And what do you
think happened then, Lucius? 
LUCIUS: I don't know Uncle. 
COMMODUS [looking at Lucilla]: The little bee told him everything. 
[Tears of fear slowly roll down Lucilla's face.]
[Back at the gladiator school...Maximus begins to collect his things, placing the
figurines of his wife and son into their leather pouch and slipping his ring on his
finger. Outside, Praetorian guards are seen as they approach. Meanwhile, assassins
are releasing a red coral snake into the bed of Senator Gaius as he and his wife
sleep. The Praetorian have reached Proximo's quarters; stand outside the gate and
call out, "Open in the name of the Emperor. Open the gates, Proximo. Open
the gates. Do you want to die, old man?"]
PROXIMO [walks to Maximus]: Here. Everything is prepared. It seems you
have won your freedom. [Proximo hands Maximus the ring of keys for his get
away.]
MAXIMUS: Proximo, are you in danger of becoming a good man. 
PROXIMO: Hahh! 
MAXIMUS: Juba. [as Maximus hands him the ring of keys to the cells.]
[Outside the guards continue calling out, "All enemies of the Emperor die!" ]
[The men gather around Maximus to listen to his orders.]
MAXIMUS: I only need moments so you need not be careless with your
lives. If you don't want to be any part of this go back to your cells. 
HAGEN: We will wait here for you, Maximus. [The gladiators call out,]
"Strength and Honour".
[Maximus walks over to Juba and says "Strength and Honour" as the two friends
touch foreheads. Maximus begins to make his get away as the gladiators battle with
the Roman guards. The gladiators fight bravely. Hagen is killed. In Proximo's
quarters, he is killed by the Praetorian as he holds his Rudius and says, "Shadows
and dust". Maximus makes his way through the tunnel to the outside. Along the
way, he finds his armour and sword and puts them on. Once outside, he sees a
rider standing still. He whistles and the rider, Cicero, recognizes the whistle and
calls out Maximus' name. At that moment, his horse bolts and Cicero is hanged by
the rope around his neck. Maximus runs to him and lifts him. Cicero says, "I'm
sorry". The Praetorian shoot arrows and kill Cicero as Maximus cries out an
anguished roar "Noooo!" Maximus is surrounded by the Praetorian.]
[SCENE CHANGE - back at the palace. Senator Falco approaches Commodus as he
stands looking over the city and says, "It is done." Commodus slowly turns to
Falco.]  
COMMODUS: And what of my nephew and what of his mother? Shall they
share her lover's fate or should I be merciful? Commodus the merciful.
Lucius will stay with me now and if his mother so much as looks at me in a
manner that displeases me, he will die. And if she decides to be noble and
take her own life, he will die. And, as for you, [looking at Lucilla] you will
love me as I have loved you. You will provide me with an heir of pure blood
so that Commodus and his progeny will rule for 1,000 years. Am I not
merciful? [He gets close to her face and tries to kiss her but Lucilla turns away.
Commodus grabs her jaw, turning her face towards him screams] AM I NOT
MERCIFUL?! [Tears slowly come down Lucilla's face.]
 
[SCENE CHANGE - at the Colosseum. The crowd chants "Maximus, Maximus,
Maximus" The petals of red flowers float in the air onto the sands of the arena
floor.... Below, Maximus is chained. Commodus goes to Maximus. The other
prisoners (Gracchus, Juba) are watching as he enters. Commodus, dressed in his
white leather armour, walks up to the chained Maximus who is bruised and weary.]
COMMODUS [In a whisper]: Maximus. Maximus. Maximus. They call for you.
The general who became a slave. The slave who became a gladiator. The
gladiator who defied an emperor. A striking story. Now the people want to
know how the story ends. Only a famous death will do. What could be
more glorious than to challenge the emperor himself in the great arena. 
MAXIMUS: You would fight me? 
COMMODUS: Why not? Do you think I am afraid? 
MAXIMUS: I think you have been afraid all your life. 
COMMODUS: Unlike Maximus the invincible, who knows no fear? 
MAXIMUS [ laughing]: I knew a man who once said, death smiles at us all.
All that man can do is smile back. 
COMMODUS: I wonder. Did your friend smile at his own death? 
MAXIMUS: You must know. He was your father. 
COMMODUS: You loved my father, I know. But so did I. That makes us
brothers, doesn't it? Smile for me now brother. [ Commodus embraces
Maximus and with one cowardice, fierce thrust, stabs him with his dagger that has
been hidden in his sleeve, and then kisses him on the neck.] 
COMMODUS [to Quintus]: Strap on his armour. Conceal the wound.
[SCENE CHANGE - the trap door to the arena opens as the lift rises, encircled with
the Praetorian as they stand behind their black shields. In the middle, the white
clad Commodus, gazing upwardly, basking in the sun stands next to the wounded,
dying Maximus.All the while, Quintus staring at Maximus. As they reach the floor of
the arena, the Praetorian take their ring formation. Maximus stumbles to the center,
slowly stooping to pick up a handful of sand, with a watchful eye on Quintus.
Maximus rubs the sand between his hands and reaches for his sword but Quintus
tosses it away from himself, and out of Maximus' reach. Maximus painfully moves
to where the sword has been tossed and picks it up, immediately swinging at
Commodus. The two do battle. Maximus roars as he attacks Commodus.
Commodus manages to cut Maximus' leg. Although wounded, Maximus cuts
Commodus' arm causing Commodus to drop his sword.]
[Maximus, gravely suffering from the wound inflicted by Commodus while earlier
chained, begins to drift into the after life and as he sees the gate to his home, he
reaches out in an effort to push the gate open, his sword dropping from his hand.
Meanwhile, Commodus is calling Quintus for his sword, "Sword, give me your
sword," but Quintus does not comply. Commodus then turns to the Praetorian,
calling out, "Sword". The guards begin to pull their swords when Quintus quickly
orders them to "sheath your swords" and they comply. As Commodus again
reaches for his hidden dagger, Maximus quickly returns to this life and, unarmed
but for his strength and determination, continues battle with Commodus, punching
him with great force. Maximus turns Commodus' dagger against him as he tries
relentlessly to fight Maximus off but Maximus slowly plunges the knife into
Commodus' throat, deeper and deeper until it can go no further. Commodus, his
breath leaving his body, falls to the ground. The fight over, Maximus begins to once
again drift to the after life, as he reaches out his bloodied hand, to push open the
gate that leads to his home, peace, once again, overcome Maximus but Quintus
calls to him, "Maximus, Maximus" and Maximus falls back to this life.]
MAXIMUS: Quintus, free my men. Senator Gracchus is to be reinstated.
There was a dream that was Rome, it shall be realized. These are the
wishes of Marcus Aurelius. [Quintus calls out to the guards, "Free the
prisoners, ...go!" ]
[Maximus stands, unsteady, as the vision of the wheat field once again comes to
him, his wife and son waiting for him. Suddenly he falls hard like a tree, to the
ground. Lucilla runs into the arena, dropping to her knees at his side and calling to
him "Maximus!" Maximus gazes up and tells her, "Lucius is safe." Lucilla looks
at him adoringly and responds, "Go to them". Now he is free. With her hand, she
closes his eyes, his face calm and at peace as he leaves this world. Lucilla adds,
"You are home." Grieving, with one hand to her brow, she regains her presence,
stands and turns to Senator Gracchus and the crowd.]
LUCILLA: Is Rome worth one good man's life? We believed it once. Make us
believe it again. He was a soldier of Rome. Honour him. 
GRACCHUS: Who will help me carry him? 
[Many gather to lift Maximus and carry him from the arena. Commodus is left alone,
in the sand.]
[SCENE CHANGE as Juba is digging in the sand for burial, at the place where
Maximus died. He unfolds the small leather pouch and removes the figurines
belonging to Maximus of his wife and son and gently places them in their resting place,]
JUBA: Now we are free. I will see you again. But not yet, not yet....

- The End -

gladiator.txt