Opening Scenes in Dreamworks' Movie Gladiator 

One favorite Gladiator scene is the opening close-up shot of actor, Russell Crowe's pensive face.  He doesn't have to say a word, but you know he's thinking about something deep in his mind.  He looks "ragged" in the sense that it's obvious he isn't home, he is wearing an ancient soldier's uniform, and on top of that he is wearing a thick coat which shows he is in a time when the weather isn't so great.  Jamaica is nowhere to be found.  He has a concerned look, but this is not only for the weather, but for something else, which the camera quickly shows is a battle, not with the well-known Die Hard fare, but with other weapons.  We are then treated to flaming catapults.  We haven't seen that in the movies for quite some time.  We are also treated to Crowe's loud, booming, excellent baritone voice.  Add music to that and we are treated to TOFOG.

Next, Crowe is shown watching a bird.  But it is clear the shot of the bird is somewhere else, and probably not even close to the vicinity of Crowe.  I could be wrong on this, I know.  But when the camera does not shoot Crowe and the bird in the same frame, I become suspicious the bird was shot elsewhere.

Anyway, the bird adds another innocent, full-of-life, hopeful dimension to Crowe's pensive expression and presence.  And when the bird flies off, Crowe is left alone and I, the fan, feels a tinge of sadness, especially for what is all about to happen next.  

Ridley Scott knows how to make his shots not only work, but also look beautiful.  This opening in addition to the hand brushing over wheat makes the opening great artistically.  Not only that, it hooked me in and I'm glad I stayed.

Take a break in your day with incredible Gladiator actor, Russell Crowe!