This is a movie I grew up with and I feel a lot of nostalgia for it now. The last time I saw it, it gave me a lot more emotions than when I was a kid. The story of the protagonist, everything he experienced, what he achieved and what he lost afterwards to then return as a Gladiator is fantastic. It is also excellent on the antagonist side, the references to customs and beliefs of those times, the political and social issues that are mentioned, etc. But what is most striking are the battles themselves, this film has everything to entertain and leave you fascinated.
Excellent review.
I'm so happy you got to experience some fun nostalgia! I had an odd form of nostalgia from this because the film always sat in my family's collection but I never saw it until the other day! I agree with everything you said, Gladiator is certainly well rounded! Thank you so much!!!