Summer is a time of longer, carefree days. It’s also given us some memorable blockbusters over the years. As we head into the summer of 2025, doubtless you’re excited about all the blockbusters that are coming to theaters the next few months. But what about some of the blockbusters of the past. Over the next couple of months, I’ll be looking at some classic summer releases that are hitting milestone anniversaries this year. Today, I’m kicking off with a classic epic that’s approaching its 25th anniversary: Gladiator.
Why it Stands Out
I still remember the first time I saw Gladiator. It released on the first weekend of May—the kickstart to the summer movie season. I packed into the theater with a group of friends from my college dorm and was transported to a different world. Gladiator was an epic unlike anything I’d seen at the time.
Russell Crowe leads the way as Maximus, and his journey draws the audience in. When you get to the gladiator sequences, especially those in front of the Emperor (Joaquin Phoenix) it’s beyond thrilling. It has a great story, great action, and a fantastic ending. It even led into a sequel that was released last November.
But this was more than a summer blockbuster. It was a film that stuck with critics and members of the Academy long after its release. The film was nominated for 12 Academy Awards, winning five. Those wins included Best Actor for Crowe and Best Picture. That helps Gladiator stand out among the pack for the year 2000, not just for summer movies.
What continues to stand out about the original is the story, the performances, and the craft. Crowe gives perhaps his best career performance, but he has a great foil in Phoenix. Their back-and-forth in the arena works wonders.
But this is also a smartly crafted film from Scott. There are big set pieces, including the battle that kicks off the film and all the time in the arena. There are also some great dramatic flourishes and a lot of time spent building the story. Finally, it’s the other touches that bring it to life. The film won Academy Awards for sound, costumes, and visual effects. I also love the score from Hans Zimmer. It was nominated but didn’t win, yet it remains iconic, and I think it’s one of his best.
If you’re looking for a rousing epic this summer, it’s well worth checking out Gladiator and celebrating its 25th anniversary.
Where to Find It: Gladiator is streaming free on Paramount+, Kanopy, and Hoopla.