Review of Spartacus (1960) by Michael C — 29 Mar 2009

This is not a true Stanley Kubrick film, in that he didn't have the level of control on this film that he exhibited with all others, but it is nonetheless am masterpiece and an epic that has been emulated numerous times over the last 50 years.

Kirk Douglas is very believable as the inspiring leader of a group of slaves orchestrating an uprising. He is all man, all machismo, but is still not uncomfortable to show his gentleness and love for his fellow men when it is needed.

This is most obvious in the classic "I'm Spartacus" scene, which will likely bring a tear to your eye. The fight scenes also hold up incredibly well, and I am certain Ridley Scott likely gave this film a viewing before Gladiator.

I've always enjoyed the more accomplished entries in the "swords and sandals" genre, and Spartacus could easily be classified as one of the landmark films of that ilk.