“GlADIATOR"

  NOTE:  THIS STORYLINE WAS CREATED FROM CONTRIBUTIONS SUBMITTED BY MEMBERS OF DREAMWORKS SKG.  The idea was to have fun gathering everyone’s recollections of the movie.  This compilation is made from material in the public domain.  The movie, book and print are copyrighted and this is not intended to infringe upon that.  It is not our intention to republish or to duplicate any copyrighted movie or any dialogue of the movie Gladiator and in fact, there is no guarantee that our recollection and representation of any dialogue is accurate.  This interpretation is made for no commercial purpose and only for our own intellectual curiosity, enjoyment of the movie and for public comment.  This is a fair dealing for personal reasons and for the purposes of criticism and review to enable the fans to discuss the movie.

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 man is walking through a sun-warmed wheat field, his rough weathered hand, cuffed in leather and finger banded in silver, lightly brushes the tops of the swollen grain spikes.  Faint childish laughter is heard in the background.  The man, a Roman soldier, is General Maximus.  He reluctantly leaves this pleasant vision to return to Germania.  The look of peace has left his face and has been replaced with an intense, hardened stare.  The armor clad general stands in a muddy burned out forest, cloaked against the cold winter air.  The General contemplates the coming battle.  As he turns to join his troops, a small robin sitting on a bare twig catches his eye.  Maximus smiles as the bird flies away but almost immediately, the smile fades.  The reality of the cold day and the men awaiting his signal interrupt his thoughts.

ext. germania

Overlooking the battlefield sits Caesar MARCUS AURELIUS atop his horse, surrounded by the Roman Praetorian guards.  As the cavalry rides past, Maximus walks through the ranks of men who are lining up for battle.  The soldiers rise with respect and admiration as they call out his name as he approaches, “General” – He passes through the ranks with a smile greeting the men as he passes.  This is the man who will lead them to victory, and hopefully his leadership will keep them alive.  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.  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

(interrupting)

Is acceptable, agree?

In the distance the cries of the Germans can be heard

germanian

 Ihr seid hunde! (you are dogs!) 

A horse and rider emerges from the German line.

Maximus watches closely as the horseman approaches and announces.

maximus

They say no.

The bloodied horse enters the Roman ranks; the rider is without a head.  The German leader comes to the front of his lines, waving the horseman’s head and tosses it into the mud.

barbarian

Ihr seid verfluchte hunde!  (You are damned dogs!)

The mangy band of barbarians emerges from the forest waving their spears and shields, threatening the Roman army.

QUINTUS

People should know when they’re conquered.

maximus

Would you, Quintus?  Would I?

Maximus bends down, picks up a handful of dirt and brings it to his nose inhaling the scent.  He looks to his side and sees the WOLF OF ROME eagerly watching its master.  Their gaze locks as though communicating.  Maximus rises and clasps hands with Quintus.

maximus

Strength and honor. 

He mounts his horse.

Quintus

Strength and honor.

valerius

Strength and honor.

Maximus

At my signal, unleash hell.

The wolf breaks free from its handler and chases after Maximus.  Horse and wolf run side-by-side as Maximus rides off. 

Ext. top of hill

Marcus continues his watch over the battlefield.

quintus

Load the catapults.  Infantry form up for advance…archers ready.

chief archer

Archers!

centurion

Nock!

archer

Nock!

Maximus rides up into the misty forest where the cavalry waits, the wolf at his side.  He stops and addresses the men.

maximus

Fratres

(beat)

three weeks from now I will be harvesting my crops, imagine where you will be and it will be so.  Hold the line

(beat)

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.

maximus

Brothers

(beat)

what we do in life, echoes in eternity!

A soldier approaches and hands Maximus the plumed helmet of a general.  As he readies himself for battle Maximus turns to an archer and nods, giving the signal to "unleash hell" and a flaming arrow is shot into the sky.

onager centurion

Pull!  Pull!

soldier

Cohorts ready, sir!

1st Centurion

Archers, ignite!

2nd centurion

Ignite!

1st centurion

Archers, draw!

Onager centurion

Loose!

Scorpions fire, onagers let loose, flaming arrows and defiant cheers from the troops. 

With his sword-wielding arm raised for all to see, Maximus leads the cavalry forward; their advance increases to a charge as they move down the hill and through the trees. 

The archers continue firing on the enemy.  Black smoke fills the sky.  Fiery clay pots are shot from catapults and striking the trees, they set fires among the waiting Germanians.

Maximus

Hold the line!  Hold the line!

The cavalry thunders down the hill.  The archers at the front maintain their fiery onslaught.

maximus

Stay with me!  Stay with me!

Felix III advances in tortoise formation; fires continue to explode into the trees as the barbarians charge.  The Wolf of Rome leaps through a wall of flame with Maximus and the rest of the cavalry right behind him. 

maximus

Roma Victor!

The Germanians turn to see the thundering cavalry charge coming from behind.  Swords are flying as the two sides attack.  Maximus' swinging sword takes off a head and becomes stuck in a tree stump.  He grabs another from the scabbard on his saddle as a lance thrust in its path fells his horse.  Maximus is thrown to the ground in the middle of the foray.  Momentarily stunned, he reacts in time to parry an axe swing.  As the barbarian continues his attack, Maximus lashes out with his sword and cuts the man's legs from under him.  Another Germanian attacks with a sword and Maximus manages to move out of the way, punching and stabbing.  Finally getting to his feet, Maximus continues to stab the fallen enemy.  He looks around for the next assault he collides with another man.  Turning with a feral scream, his sword raised and ready, he recognizes one of his own men.  With a fierce smile, Maximus and the soldier turn back to the battle.

ext. top of the hill

Marcus continues his steady watch over the battlefield.

ext. Germanian warlord

The warlord finishes off a legionary but before he has time to recover, another man rushes in and stabs him in the side.  The barbarian stumbles, but does not fall.  Another soldier strikes him from the opposite side, yet he still remains on his feet.  A Roman strikes from behind – a vicious thrust to the neck.  The warlord starts to fall.

ext. maximus

Maximus punches twice before slashing a man across the chest.  A scream from behind causes Maximus to turn.  A man ablaze is charging him with an axe.  Maximus parries the swing but trips and falls.  Just as the fiery man starts to bring his axe down for the final blow, a cavalryman rides behind him and with a swing of his sword brings the barbarian down.  Another Germanian charges only to be stopped in midswing by the Wolf of Rome.  The wolf, protecting his master, leaps and brings his jaws down on the man's hand.

Chaotic battle scenes with a wolf's growl audible in the background.  We hear horses crying and the clash of metal against metal and bone.  The fighting is feverish.  A sucking sound is heard as the men struggle to maintain their balance on the muddy field.

ext. battlefield

Dozens of soldiers fighting, two standards of the Felix Legion are thrust into the ground nearby.  We see one particular scene where a legionary kneels after stabbing an enemy, but he himself falls at the swing of a barbarian's sword.  A cavalryman falling from his horse.  A legionary crying.  Maximus at one of the battle standards looks around.  The battle is over.  Roman soldiers are wandering around administering final blows to the wounded enemy.  The brutal battle is over.  Maximus raises his sword and triumphantly shouts

maximus

Roma victor!

Others raise their swords and cheer.  Maximus standing in the middle of the dead and wounded, the remaining soldiers at his side, raises his sword and breathing heavily, again he cries out

maximus

Roma victor!

centurion

Roma victor!

ext. Hilltop

Marcus Aurelius slowly leans back and sighs.  Rome is victorious, it is over.

INT. guarded armored wagon.

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

(interrupting)

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

(beat)

when

(beat)

is honor him with games worthy of his majesty.

lucilla

For now, the first thing I shall do is have a hot bath.

The wagon stops and there is a knock at the door.

attendant

Your highness.

Commodus steps out.

attendant

We look to be almost there, Sire.

A soldier steps forward.

soldier

Sire.

Commodus

Where's the Emperor?

soldier

He’s at the front, Sire.  They have been gone 19 days.  The wounded are still coming in.

commodus

My horse!

He mounts his horse, and then to Lucilla.

commodus

Kiss?

Lucilla blows him a kiss.

Ext. Battlefield

The snow continues to fall and a cold wind blows through the trees and the bones of the men.  Maximus is retrieving the sword he lost at the beginning of the battle.  He removes the sword and turns to see Marcus Aurelius walking towards him.  The soldiers rise and bow at his passing.  Maximus bows as Marcus approaches.

marcus

You have proved your valor, 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.  How can I reward Rome's greatest general?

Cuts to his cheek and the bridge of his nose, his face splattered with the blood of his enemy, Maximus thinks for a moment.

maximus

Let me go home.

marcus

Ah.  Home.

The two men walk through the debris of battle.  Soldiers cheering as they pass.

maximus

They honor you, Caesar.

marcus

It is you, Maximus.  They honor you.

They stop and Maximus raises his sword in acknowledgment to the cheers of his men. 

ext. commodus

Commodus witnesses this spontaneous outburst and urges his horse forward, his guards following close behind.  He dismounts and approaches Marcus.

commodus

Have I missed it?  Have I missed the battle?

marcus

You have missed the war.

commodus

Father.  Congratulations.  I shall sacrifice 100 bulls to honor your triumph.

marcus

Save the bulls, honor Maximus.  He won the battle.

Commodus acknowledges Maximus for the first time.

commodus

General.

maximus

Highness.

commodus

Rome salutes you and I embrace you as a brother.  It has been too long my old friend.

maximus

(head bowed)

Highness.

commodus

Here father, take my arm.

marcus

I think it is time

(beat)

for me to leave.

Marcus mounts his horse with difficulty.  Maximus hands his sword to Quintus in order to help the aging monarch.  Marcus looks at him with obvious affection.

marcus

(to Maximus)

So much for the glory of Rome.

Commodus observes this exchange.  His hooded eyes filled with the pain of jealousy.

Int. tent 

A celebration is taking place.  Music and laughter fill the air.  Maximus enters and washes his hands in a bowl of water filled with red flowers.  The water has been stained with their color and serves as a reminder of the blood of battle. 

soldier (V.O.)

Well, it was three of our legions against four thousand of them.

Maximus pauses at the sight of his hands in the red water.  Looking into the crowd, he notices Marcus and Commodus.  He strolls toward Quintus and Valerius, a smile on his face, he speaks first to Quintus.

maximus

General!  Still alive?

Quintus

Still alive.

Maximus

The gods must have a sense of humor.

They fondly embrace, Maximus cupping the back of Quintus head.

quintus

The gods must love you.

Maximus reaches for Valerius hand.

maximus

Valerius.

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 dirt cleans off a lot easier than blood, Quintus.

Commodus approaches, the senators following.

commodus

Here he is.

maximus

Highness.

Commodus makes the introductions.

commodus

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, why not?  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

(smiling warily)

A soldier has the advantage of being able to look his enemy in the eye, Senator.

Gaius

But with an army behind you, you could become extremely political.

commodus

I warned you, but I shall save you.  Senators.

He nods to the senators and leads Maximus aside.

commodus

I’m going to need good men like you.

maximus

How may I be of service, Highness?

commodus

You are 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 at Marcus)

Can I count on you

(beat)

when the time comes?

maximus

(following Commodus glance)

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

(beat)

I may call on you before long.

Maximus is troubled by the reference to future service.

commodus

Lucilla is here.  Did you know?  She has not forgotten you.  And now you are the great man.

Int. marcus tent

Marcus enters and observes Lucilla and her maid discretely admiring the gathered men through the curtain.

lucilla

(murmuring)

Maximus.

The maid notices Marcus’ entrance and pulls away, Lucilla drops the curtain.

marcus

If only you had been born a man.  What a Caesar you would have made.

lucilla

Father.

She walks towards him and kisses his cheek.

marcus

You would have been strong.  I wonder

(beat)

would you have been just.

lucilla

I would have been what you taught me to be.

marcus

Oh.  How was your journey?

They walk arm-in-arm.

lucilla

Long.  Uncomfortable.

(beat)

Why have I come?

marcus

I need your help

(beat)

with your brother.

lucilla

Of course.

marcus

He loves you, he always has and

(beat)

he will need you now, more than ever.

(pauses contemplating his next words)

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?

ext. camp

Fire pits attempt to warm the chill of a light snowfall.  Maximus is walking through the camp, greeting his men as they rest.  Some are eating; some are sharpening weapons.  Maximus approaches a horse and strokes its head.  His attention is suddenly caught by the unmistakable sound of swords clashing.  Commodus and his guards, shirtless in the cool weather, are engaged in exercise.  Commodus proves to be an expert swordsman.

int.  marcus tent

Marcus is sitting hunched over his writing desk.  Maximus enters and stands at attention.  Marcus seems unaware of his presence.  Maximus hesitates and then turns his gaze to Marcus.

maximus

You sent for me Caesar?

(beat)

Caesar?

Marcus puts down his pen and scratches his nose.

marcus

Tell me again Maximus, why are we here?

maximus

For the glory of the Empire, Sire.

Marcus

Ah yes

(beat)

Ah yes.  I remember.  Do 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 four years without war

(beat)

four years of peace in 20.  And for what?  I brought the sword, nothing more.

Sounds from outside can be heard.  The wind howling against the tent, horses whinny, dogs bark and from inside, the tent creaks, straining against the wind.

maximus

Caesar, your life

marcus

(interrupting)

Please, please don’t call me that.  Come, please, come sit.  Let us talk, together now.  Very simply, as men.  Well Maximus

(beat)

talk.

Marcus motions for Maximus to sit.

maximus

5000 of my men are out there in the freezing mud.  3000 are bloodied and cleaved.  2000 will never leave this place.  I will not believe that 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

(nodding)

marcus

Tell me about your home.

Surprised at the levity, Maximus relaxes and a visible peace comes over him.

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

(beat)

black like my wife’s hair.  Grapes on the south slopes, olives on the north.

(chuckles and rubs his thigh)

Wild ponies play near my house, they tease my son.  He wants to be one of them.

marcus

When was the last time you were home?

Maximus

Two years, 264 days and this morning.

Marcus

I envy you, Maximus.  It is a good home?  Worth fighting for?

Maximus nods and Marcus rises.

marcus

There is one more duty that I ask of you before you go home.

Maximus rises and snaps to attention.

maximus

What would 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

(beat)

to give power back to the people of Rome and end the corruption that has crippled it.

A look of despair comes over Maximus as he tries to control his emotions.

marcus

Won’t you accept this great honor that I have offered you?

maximus

With all my heart, no.

Marcus has approached and now tenderly cradles Maximus head in his hands.

marcus

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

(interrupting)

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. 

Before answering, Maximus swallows hard.  He finds it hard to speak.

maximus

I need some time, Sire.

Marcus moves to his cot again.

marcus

Yes.  By sunset, I hope you will have agreed.  Now embrace me as my son and bring an old man another blanket.

ext. emperor’s tent

Maximus hesitates, troubled.  Lucilla steps out of an adjacent tent.  She appears to have been waiting for Maximus.  In the background can be heard the sounds of anvils clanging, dogs barking and horses neighing and the cry of a hawk overhead.

lucilla

My father favors you now.

maximus

My lady.

lucilla

T’was not always so.

maximus

Many things change.

lucilla

Many things, not everything.

Maximus turns to leave.

Lucilla

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.

He turns and begins to leave.

lucilla

You are lying.  I could always tell when you were lying because you were never any good at it.

Maximus turns back and approaches her.

maximus

I never acquired your comfort with it.

lucilla

True.  But then you never had to.  Life is more simple for a soldier.  Or do you think me heartless?

maximus

I think you have a talent for survival.

Once again, he turns to leave.

lucilla

(laughing)

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 that my father will  announce his succession within days.  Will you serve my brother as you have served my father?

maximus

I will always serve Rome.

lucilla

Do 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.

(he smiles for just a moment)

I thank you for your prayers.

Lucilla watches him as he finally leaves.

int. maximus tent

Maximus kneels before his personal altar.  It contains the icons of his religion and his family.  Candles glow warmly.

maximus

(quietly)

Ancestors, I ask you for your guidance.  Blessed Mother, come to me with the god’s 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 honor you and will try to live with the dignity you have taught me.

He kisses the icons of his wife and son and replaces them on the altar.  He rises and moves to a nearby chair calling to his friend and servant, Cicero.

maximus

Cicero. 

Cicero enters and hands Maximus a goblet then turns to put out the candles.

Maximus

Do you ever find it hard to do your duty?

Cicero hands Maximus a goblet and turns to put out the candles.

cicero

Sometimes I do what I want to do.  The rest of the time, I do what I have to.

Maximus is rubbing his beard, thinking.

maximus

We may not be able to go home after all.

int. marcus tent

Commodus enters and gazes at a bust of his father.  He reaches out to touch it as Marcus enters from behind.

marcus

Are you ready to do your duty for Rome?

Commodus

(smiling)

Yes, father.

marcus

You will not be Emperor.

commodus

(smile turns to 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 reaches to Commodus, who pulls away.

marcus

My decision disappoints you?

commodus

(fighting back tears)

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 battlefield 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 to be your son.

marcus

Oh, Commodus, you go to far.

commodus

(through tears)

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 kneels in front of Commodus, arms raised.

marcus

Commodus, your fault as a son

(beat)

is my failure as a father.

Commodus slowly embraces him, together they weep.

commodus

Father, I would butcher the whole world if you would only love me!

Marcus begins to struggle and it becomes obvious that Commodus is pressing his fathers face tightly to his body, suffocating him.  Commodus cries aloud, sounding like a child in pain.

int. maximus tent

The howl of a dog can be heard.  Quintus enters and reaches out to awaken Maximus who quickly pulls a dagger.  He smiles with embarrassment when he realizes who has awakened him.

quintus

Maximus.  The Emperor needs you.  It is urgent.

Int. marcus tent

Commodus pulls back the tent flap and bids Maximus and Quintus enter.

commodus

Lament with me brother.  Our great father is dead.

Maximus shocked turns to Marcus body and places a hand to his forehead and then to the dead Emperor’s throat, checking for signs of life.

maximus

How did he die?

commodus

The surgeon said there was no pain.  His breath gave out as he slept.

Maximus leans down and kisses Marcus forehead.

maximus

(whisper)

Father.

Commodus

Your Emperor asks for your loyalty, Maximus.  Take my hand.  I only offer it once.

Maximus turns from Marcus, looks at Lucilla who is sitting in the corner, eyes moist with grief.  He ignores Commodus outstretched hand and walks from the tent, calling to Quintus as he leaves.

maximus

Quintus!

Quintus looks to Commodus.  Commodus nods.  The command has already been given and Quintus follows Maximus from the tent.

Lucilla, sitting to the side has observed the previous exchange.  She now steps forward, slaps Commodus, then lifts his hand, and kisses it.  She has been crying.

lucilla

Hail, Caesar.

int. maximus tent

He is rushing about, buckling his armor, Cicero assists him.

maximus

I must talk to the senators.  I need their counsel.  Wake Gaius and Falco.

cicero

Gaius and Falco.

maximus

Sword!

cicero

Sword.

Cicero goes off to collect the sword and he is behind a curtain ready to hand Maximus his sword when 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

Why are you armed Quintus?

quintus

Guards!

They enter quickly, grabbing Maximus arms and holding them behind his back.  He is turned facing the curtain that Cicero is behind.  Quietly, Cicero begins to draw the sword from its scabbard and Maximus shakes his head no.  The time is not right.

quintus

Please don’t fight Maximus.  I am sorry.  Caesar has spoken.

(to the guards)

Ride until dawn

(beat)

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 afterlife.

Maximus struggles to free himself only to have one of the guards hit him across the back of his head with the hilt of a sword.  A vision of his wife and son, his land and home, and of himself walking through a wheat field flashes before him.

ext. execution ground

Maximus is in the lead as they walk over uneven ground.  Two guards remain on the road while two others escort him to the execution ground.  The forest floor is filled with broken branches, the devastation of battle and the skeletal remains of the fallen.  Maximus carefully steps over the debris, his hands tied in front of him.

guard

Kneel.

The men position themselves for the execution, one man to the left, the other to the right of the prisoner.  Maximus sinks to his knees and silently prays as images of home return.

maximus (v.o)

Blessed Father, watch over my wife and son, whisper to them that I live only to hold them again.

maximus

At least give me a clean death

(beat)

a soldier’s death.

The guard to his left moves behind Maximus and places his sword at the base of the condemned man’s neck.  The guard raises his arms to drive the blade home with his full weight.  Maximus reaches up, grabs the sword and yanks it away from the startled guard.  His bleeding hands gripping the sword, Maximus jumps to his feet and swings the handle at the would-be executioner, hitting him in the face and in the next instant draws the sword backwards, stabbing him in the chest.  Yanking the sword free, he tosses it blade first into the air and catches it by the hilt.  He now faces the first guard who is attempting to draw his own sword.

maximus

Frost

(beat)

sometimes it makes the blade stick.

Maximus swings the sword, slicing through the guards face, killing him instantly.  Of the two guards left on the road, one hears a strange sound and turns just in time to see a spinning sword flying through the air straight towards his chest.  He falls from his horse.  The one remaining guard, unaware of what has happened is drinking from a flask hears

maximus

Praetorian!

The startled man turns to see Maximus standing alone and armed.  The guard tosses the flask aside and draws his own sword in one motion.  He urges his horse forward and raises his arm to cut Maximus down, but at the last minute, Maximus switches sides.  The Praetorian swings, Maximus swings.  The momentum of the horse carries the guard forward and as he begins to turn to come back again, he falls off his horse.  Dead.  Maximus drops to one knee and runs his hand under his shoulder armor.  He has been severely wounded and is bleeding.  He collects two horses and begins the long journey home.

ext. on road

After a long run under a full moon, Maximus finally stops to rest and nurse his wound.  His mind races with thoughts of his family and of Marcus.

marcus (v.o)

When was the last time you were home?

maximus (v.o.)

Two 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.

Back on the road with only one horse this time.  Maximus exhausted, has a vision of home – wheat fields and his son playing with a white pony, his wife watching. 

Suddenly, the vision changes, the boy seeing an approaching group of rides, drops the pony’s rope and races towards the riders

son

(shouting)

Mama, I soldate (mother the guards).

his troubled mother following

son

Papa!  Papa!

The approaching men are Praetorian and they run over the boy knocking him to the ground.  His mother looks on helplessly. 

Maximus regains full consciousness and pushes his horse even harder.  The wound on his arm is bleeding freely.  His exhausted horse is sweaty and lathered as it strains under the run.  Nearing his home, a pall of black smoke is seen rising over the countryside.  His spent horse gives out and falls, throwing Maximus to the dirt where he groans heavily.  The vision was real.  Maximus with great effort rises and staggers the rest of the way.  As he draws nearer to his home he see the burned bodies of his servants, his fields are smoldering.  He pushes himself on.  The site that greets him as he enters the courtyard is truly heartbreaking.  Two charred bodies hang side-by-side, the burned and crucified bodies of his wife and son.  Overcome with grief Maximus falls to his knees, the anguish more than he can bear.  He pulls himself up and stumbles towards the bodies of his loved ones.  Gently taking his wife’s blackened feet in his cupped hands, he brings them to his lips.  Agonized cries overcome him.  He is next seen collapsed over two freshly dug graves.  Flowers lovingly placed atop each one.  He can take no more.

A Bedouin troupe, drawn by the smoke can be heard off camera.  As they move about the sound of their rustling clothes and the tinkling of bells can be heard.  They are speaking to each other.

bedouin I

Hada mish huy?  (This one’s not alive?)

bedouin II

Ma adri.  (I don’t know.)

One of the brigands nudges Maximus with his toe.

bedouin I

Huy!  (He’s alive!)

bedouin II

Kalbash’hu (Shackle him)

(beat)

Hada mish huy.  (This one is still alive.)

ext. wagon

Maximus wakes to find himself on a wagon.  He is slipping in and out of consciousness, into the afterlife.  His eyes closed, he is floating along barely above the ground.  The images are of a wall with pink stones, his home, a galloping white stallion and the wheat field.  His hand touches the rocky ground he is hovering over and he becomes aware of a sound.  Dazed, he sees his wife and son and himself, chained.  A soft voice is heard.  It is Juba.

juba (O.S.)

You will meet them again, but not yet.

Maximus looks at his wound, teeming with maggots.  He reaches to remove them and the voice is heard again.  This time we see a face.

juba

No, they will clean it.  Wait and see.

Maximus looks into the friendly face of a Numidian and once again lapses into unconsciousness.  He awakens later to the same face rising above his.

juba

Don’t die; they will feed you to the lions.  They  are worth man than we are.

Maximus looks around and sees that he is part of a caravan of slaves and exotic animals winding through the desert.  Juba turns Maximus attention back to his wound, removes a paste from his mouth and gently places it in the gaping wound, creating a poultice.

juba

Better now?  Clean.  You see?

ext. zuccabar, a roman province

Proximo is sitting at a table, drinking tea as a Slave Trader approaches him.

slave trader

Proximo, my old friend.  The day is a great day when you are here.  Today is your most fortunate day.

Proximo looks suspiciously at the man and as he comes closer reaches out and grabs the other man’s crotch.

Proximo

Those giraffes you sold me, they won’t mate.  They just walk around eating and not mating.  You sold be queer giraffes.  I want my money back.

slave trader

Not a chance.

Proximo squeezes harder.

Slave trader

I’ll do a special price for you!

Proximo

On what?

slave trader

Have you seen my new stock?  Come and see them.

With one final squeeze, Proximo releases the man.

ext. marketplace

Slaves sitting and standing waiting their fate.

proximo

Do any of them fight?  I’ve got a match coming up?

slave trader

Some are good for fighting, others for dying.  You need both, I think.

proximo

Get up.

Proximo inspects Juba, slapping his body to check for muscle tone.

proximo

What was your trade?

Juba

I was a hunter.

slave trader

No, no, I bought him from a salt mine in Carthage.

(impatiently motions for Juba to sit)

Sit down.

Proximo moves towards Maximus who is sitting in the dirt, weak and almost lifeless.  He prods Maximus’ wounded arm, a tattoo, “SPQR” is visible above the festering gash.

proximo

The mark of the legion

(beat)

deserter?

slave trader

Maybe,  but 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

(not impressed)

These slaves are rotten!

slave trader

It adds to the flavor.

Proximo turns to leave.

slave trader

No, no, wait, wait, wait.  We can negotiate.

Proximo

I’ll give you 2,000 and four for the beasts.  That’s 5,000 for an old friend.

ext.  proximo’s compound

Proximo is riding in a cart drawn by white asses; he impatiently orders his entourage to hurry.

proximo

Come on, how long does it take to get into my own house?

Following his cart is a wagon carrying his newly purchased merchandise.

Upon arriving, the men are lined up and dusted to rid them of vermin. 

A caged lion is being fed, vultures tear at a pile of rotting corpses and earlier arrivals are going through training.  As the new slaves watch, one of the recruits is shot through 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

(claps his hands)

Gladiators, I salute you.

ext. training area

Each slave is given a test of courage and skill.  Proximo is heard calling out

proximo

Yellow!  Red!

Juba is next.  He is given a wooden sword as he steps forward.  Proximo’s lead gladiator Hagen pushes Juba backwards, then Juba takes the initiative and pushes Hagen back.

hagen

Good.

Proximo

Red.

Hagen shows his respect to Juba for having earned the red, and turns next to Maximus who is sitting unconcerned in the shade.

hagen

Spaniard!

Maximus looks slowly, side to side.  He gets up, walks towards Hagen and is handed a sword.  Looking Hagen in the eye, he tosses the sword to the ground, refusing to take part. 

Hagen looks to Proximo for direction.  Proximo nods and Hagen slams the broad side of his sword into Maximus stomach.  Maximus stumbles but pulls himself upright.  Hagen is about to hit him once again, this time to his neck when Proximo stops him.

proximo

That is enough for the moment.  His time will come.

Maximus looks at Hagen with a slight grin of defiance and turns to reclaim his spot in the shade but not before receiving the “yellow”.

Hagen

Next.

Int. slave quarters

Juba is standing in the doorway observing Maximus.

juba

Spaniard, why don’t you fight?  We all have to fight.

Maximus looks up at Juba and continues to scrape at his shoulder tattoo with a sharp stone.  Blood is flowing freely as he works to remove the Mark of the Legion.

juba

Is that a sign of your gods?

Maximus nods, a sardonic smile spreading across his face. 

juba

Will that not anger them?

Maximus smiles at the irony of the question and continues to scrape.

ext. Zuccabar - Market place

Camels carry heavy loads to the bazaar and people to the arena.  Dogs run about barking while vultures circle overhead.  Banners are flapping in the wind above the arena.  Proximo’s slaves, shackled to a pole, walk through the market place.  They are on the way to the arena.  Newly dyed yarn hangs overhead drying in the sun.  Red dye drips on the men as they make their way to the arena.  A white bull is seen with red dye poured along its back.  Proximo follows closely behind, protected from the dye by a large umbrella.

Hagen speaks to Maximus.

hagen

The gods favor you.  Red is the god’s color.  You will need their help today.

int. under the arena

Proximo and his slaves are gathered together for one final pep talk.  The crowd can be heard cheering and stamping their feet.  Dust seeps through the boards of the roof.

proximo

Some of you are thinking you won’t fight, some that you can’t fight.  They all say that until they are out there.  Listen.

He pulls a sword and jabs it forward.

proximo

Thrust this into another man’s flesh and they will applaud and love you for that.  You

(beat)

you may begin to love them for that.

He slams the sword point into a wooden table in front of the men.

proximo

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.  Proximo’s words are reminiscent of Marcus’ words following the battle in Germania.  “When a man sees his end he wants to know that there has been a purpose to his life.  How will the world speak my name…?”  Maximus reaches down, picks up a handful of dirt and lets it fall from one hand to the other and then rubs the dirt into his hands.  He has decided to fight.  He will not give up the honor of dying like a man. 

The men are paired up, red to yellow.  Maximus is paired with Juba.  Hagen is paired with a frail, frightened scribe.  They are lined up waiting for the gate to open when the scribe, standing in front of Maximus looses control of his bladder.  Maximus notices and takes a step backwards.  Hagen closes his eyes as if in prayer.

The gate is thrown open and andabata, gladiators garbed as monsters from Greek and Roman myth, await them.  The first man out is immediately hit on the head, his skull crushed by a spike ball.  Blood and gore fly as the others enter the arena after him.  A dozen gladiators closing in.  Proximo is watching from above.  The slaves are dressed in simple tunics and are bareheaded.  They carry only simple swords and small round shields.  The andabata have huge iron helmets and tunics of chain mail.  Their sword arms are sheathed in sleeves of jointed metal.  They carry swords, battle-axes and tridents. 

Side by side, their chain dangling between them, Maximus and Juba enter the arena and attack as one.  Juba is under attack from an andabata wielding both a sword and a broadaxe.  He is much surprised to see Maximus attacking with ferocity.  Maximus releasing the anguish and rage held in check until now slays his attacker with one blow, thrusting his sword into the other man’s neck.  Juba is about to receive a mortal blow when Maximus yanks the chain connecting the two and pulls Juba out of immediate danger.  He blocks an oncoming blade with his shield and stabs the man in the chest with his sword.  His thrust is so powerful; the blade emerges from the man’s back.

Hagen fighting with such power is dragging his much weaker partner along.  A minotaur attacks and kills the scribe, Hagen kills the minotaur and with one powerful swing, slices through the wrist of the dead scribe.  The chain attached to his own wrist becomes another weapon and he swings it, effectively taking out two more opponents.  As the fighting continues, Hagen lifts a man and impales him on a horn adorning the side of the arena.

Maximus is swinging his shield, his sword held in the hand that is chained to Juba.  They make a good team.  At last, only one huge gladiator is left.  He is carrying a long handled trident.  Juba has taken up a position behind and over Maximus shoulder, both men’s swords pointed at the giant.  They turn the trident on the man, piercing his midsection.  They stand back exhausted and unbelieving as the crouching man pulls the weapon from his stomach and stands ready.  Maximus and Juba spin and garrote the man with their connecting chain, knocking him down.  Together they stab, finishing off the final opponent.  The crowd erupts in excitement as the “new gladiators” look around at the carnage.  Maximus looks on in disgust and turns with Juba towards the gate, ignoring the cheering crowd.

ext. rome – steps of the senate

Roman soldiers line the streets as the crowds cheer and jeer.  Praetorian Guards line the final distance.  Senators Gracchus, Falco and Gaius stand at the portico of a large building, the long sweeping stairway in front of them leads down to a plaza filled with citizens of Rome awaiting the arrival of their new emperor.  Commodus and Lucilla enter in a chariot driven by a 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

(beat)

or for you?

Gracchus bends down to the boy beside him, it is Lucius.

gracchus

Go to your mother.  It’s what she would want.

lucius

Mother!

Lucius rushes down to meet his mother, and they embrace warmly.  Commodus continues upwards.  Children hand him flowers.  He nods to them and then turns to the senators.

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

(greeting Commodus)

Caesar.

commodus

Gracchus.

gracchus

All Rome rejoices in your return, Caesar.  There are many matters that require your attention.

ext. senate chambers

The senators are gathered and Gracchus is speaking.

gracchus

For your guidance Caesar, the Senate has prepared a series of protocols 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 here.  So if Caesar…

Obviously bored, Commodus is spinning his sword on its tip on the marble floor.  He interrupts.

commodus

Shhh.  Don’t you see Gracchus?  That’s the very problem, isn’t it?  My father spent all his time at study, at books, learning and philosophy.  He spent his twilight hours reading scrolls from the Senate.  All the while, the people were forgotten.

He rises and brings his sword to rest across his shoulders.  He begins to pace.

gracchus

But the Senate is the people, Sire, chosen from among 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, Gaius.  I think I understand my own people.

gracchus

Then perhaps Caesar would be so kind as to teach us, out of his own extensive experience.

Laughter is heard from the other senators.

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

(interrupting)

Have you ever embraced someone dying of plague, Sire?

Commodus stops pacing and turns to face Gracchus bringing his sword down from his shoulder.

commodus

No, but if you interrupt me again, I assure you, that you shall.

Lucilla recognizing the potentially dangerous moment steps forward.  Commodus turns and leaves the room.

lucilla

Senator, my brother is very tired.  Leave your list with me.  Caesar shall do all that Rome requires.

Gracchus

My lady, as always, your lightest touch commands obedience.

Gracchus hands a scroll to Lucilla.

int. palace – commodus chambers

He is struggling to remove the baldric that holds his sword.  Lucilla assists him.

commodus

Who would deign to lecture me?

lucilla

Commodus, the senate has its uses.

commodus

What uses?  All they do is talk.  It should be just

(beat)

you and me, and Rome.

lucilla

Don’t even think it.  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

(beat)

She hesitates, searching for the right word.

commodus

Illusions?

lucilla