GLADIATOR
by David Franzoni, John Logan, and William Nicholson
01 EXT. BATTLEFIELD IN GERMANIA. DAY.
A hand is passing over a field of ripe, waist-high grass, ready for harvest. (Red-gold, bright earth tone). Very peaceful.
MEDIUM on MAXIMUS, a grim expression, looking into the frame. (Blue, dark tone.)
He sees a bird, small and indifferent to what is occurring around it, and smiles.
PULL BACK to Maximus walking alone through an empty battlefield, smoke rising from charred tree stumps. The campaign has been going on for some time.
LONG SHOT on mounted troops riding by.
MEDIUM on MARCUS AURELIUS, standing on a hillside, among a company of Praetorian guards, surveying the preparations on the battlefield.
MEDIUM on Maximus walking among the infantry, greeting soldiers
MAXIMUS
(smiling)
Lean and hungry.
(nodding to the enemy side)
Nothing yet?
QUINTUS
Not a sign.
MAXIMUS
How long has he been gone?
QUINTUS
Nearly 2 hours.
2nd OFFICER
Will they fight, sir?
MAXIMUS
We shall know soon enough.
QUINTUS
(calling out to nearby soldiers)
Soldier! I ordered you to move those catapults forward, they’re out of range.
MAXIMUS
The range is good.
QUINTUS
A danger to the cavalry --
MAXIMUS
-- is acceptable. Agreed?
Sudden unearthly shouts of one of the barbarian leaders come from the forest.
A horse with a rider emerges from the trees, and walks towards the Roman forces.
MAXIMUS
(as if to himself)
What do they say now.
The horse is carrying a Roman soldier's headless body, the scout who was sent out 2 hours ago to reconnoiter. More shouts of other chieftains emerge from across the battlefield as the horse gallops between the Roman squadrons.
QUINTUS
(to Maximus)
People should know when they’re conquered.
The shouts rise to a scream. One long sentence in the ancient German language.
One of the barbarian chieftains walks out onto the field.
Maximus, kneeling, takes up a handful of earth and rubs it between his hands. The action has a ritual air. He glances at a dog, sitting on its haunches, which returns his look.
MAXIMUS
(looking up)
Would you, Quintus? Would I?
He brushes off his hands, stands, and shakes hands with Quintus and other officers standing nearby.
MAXIMUS
(to Quintus)
Strength and honor.
QUINTUS
(to nearby officer)
Strength and honor.
OTHERS
Strength and honor.
Maximus mounts his horse. The dog looks up, aware his master is preparing to leave.
Maximus looks down at Quintus and the other officers.
MAXIMUS
At my signal, unleash Hell.
He rides off, the dog running at his side.
MEDIUM on Marcus Aurelius, observing closely as the troops are mustered.
QUINTUS (O/S)
Load the catapults!
Large arrows are lowered into the war machines.
QUINTUS (O/S)
Infantry, form up for advance.
Groups of soldiers run forward.
LIEUTENANT (O/S)
Archers ready!
SARGEANT (O/S)
Archers! Nock!
They place arrows against the bowstrings of their bows.
ARCHERY LEADER
Nock!
Maximus rides into the forest on the Roman side. He rides up to the center of the cavalry and looks around at his men.
MAXIMUS
(shouting)
Comrades!
(soldiers cheer)
Three weeks from now I will be harvesting my crops.
Imagine where you will be, and it will be so!
(pauses)
Hold the line! Stay with me!
If you find yourself alone, riding in green fields with the sun on your face, do not be troubled --
(joking)
-- for you are in Elysium --
(laughter)
-- and you are already dead!
(laughter rises)
(pauses)
Alas! What we do in life … echoes in eternity!
Out on the field, catapult winches are turned.
On the enemy side, an archer dips a nocked arrow into a fire, and shoots it. The flaming arrow crosses over and lands on the Roman side.
Rows of Roman archers shoot their first wave of arrows.
LONG on the phalanxes of Roman troops moving forward toward the forest.
LIEUTENANT (O/S)
Archers ignite!
A long line of Roman archers lower their nocked arrows into a shallow firetrench at their feet.
Catapults are fired.
Flaming arrows are shot, and land in the foliage of trees, starting fires.
Large catapult arrows land in the forest, impaling warriors, smashing into the trunks of trees.
MEDIUM on Marcus Aurelius up on the hillside, his gaze following the incendiary missiles.
LONG on the forest, where pockets of fire have sprung up.
Maximus and the cavalry ride into battle.
MAXIMUS
Roma victor!
Maximus, mounted on his horse, kills two of the enemy.
He cleaves an enemy soldier’s head, the blade of his sword lodging itself in a tree-trunk.
MAXIMUS (cont’d)
(shouting above the din of battle)
Hold the line!
Maximus is knocked off his horse. In close combat, he falls, and fights his way back up.
MAXIMUS (cont’d)
(shouting)
Hold … the … line!
The battle rages on.
Maximus is again knocked down, and again fights his way back.
MAXIMUS (O/S)
Stay with me!
(louder)
Stay with me!
One of the barbarian leaders is killed.
The dog attacks one of the enemy chieftains.
Maximus raises his arms.
MAXIMUS (O/S)
Roma victor!
02 EXT. FOREST. DAY.
A heavily fortified war-coach, drawn by 4 horses, is moving through the forest.
03 INT. IMPERIAL WAR-COACH. DAY.
An aristocratic pair, a young man and woman, are reclining on cushions, on opposite sides of the coach.
COMMODUS
Do you think he’s really dying?
LUCILLA
He’s been dying for 10 years.
COMMODUS
If he hadn’t really dying, he wouldn’t have sent for us.
LUCILLA
Maybe he just misses us.
COMMODUS
And the senators. He wouldn’t have sent for --
LUCILLA
-- Please! Two weeks on the road and your incessant scheming are hurting my head.
Commodus gets up and sits on her side of the coach.
COMMODUS
He’s made his decision. He’s going to announce it. He will make me … The first thing I shall do when … Is honor him with games worthy of his majesty.
He smiles. She smiles back.
LUCILLA
And now the first thing I shall do is have our bath.
A sudden knocking on the coach door.
DRIVER
We’re almost there, sir.
The door is opened. Commodus emerges into the daylight, squinting.
OFFICER
Sire.
COMMODUS
Where’s the Emperor?
OFFICER
He’s at the front, sire. He’s been gone for 19 days. The wounded are still coming in.
COMMODUS
(to his adjutant)
My horse.
The horse is quickly brought up.
OFFICER
My lord.
04 EXT. BATTLEFIELD. DAY.
CLOSE on Maximus’ sword, still stuck in the tree.
Maximus pulls it out.
The Emperor Marcus Aurelius approaches.
AURELIUS
You have proved your valor yet again, Maximus. Let us hope for the last time.
MAXIMUS
There’s no one left to fight, sire.
AURELIUS
There’s always someone left to fight.
How can I reward Rome’s greatest general?
MAXIMUS
(hesitates)
Let me go home.
AURELIUS
Ah, home!
Commodus rides at the head of a mounted imperial guard, coming down onto the battlefield.
TROOPS
(cheering)
Roma victor!
Maximus and Aurelius look round at the army.
MAXIMUS
They honor you, Caesar.
AURELIUS
No, Maximus, it’s for you. They honor you.
Commodus arrives, dismounts and walks quickly towards them.
COMMODUS
Have I missed it? Have I missed the battle?
AURELIUS
You have missed the war.
COMMODUS
Father, congratulations. I shall sacrifice a hundred bulls to honor your triumph.
AURELIUS
(drily)
Save the bulls.
Honor Maximus. He won the battle.
COMMODUS
(turns to Maximus)
General. Rome salutes you. And I embrace you as a brother. It has been too long, my old friend.
MAXIMUS
(bows his head)
Your Highness.
Commodus turns back to Aurelius, taking hold of his father’s elbow.
COMMODUS
Here, father, take my arm.
Aurelius gently removes his arm.
AURELIUS
I think it is time for me to leave.
Aurelius mounts his horse. Maximus comes over and helps Aurelius with his stirrup. Aurelius leans down.
AURELIUS
(to Maximus)
So much for the glory of Rome.
Commodus watches with a cold expression.
05 INT. OFFICERS’ TENT. NIGHT.
Maximus walks up to the exterior forecourt of the main tent. Inside a celebration of the victory is in progress.
OFFICER (O/S, bgd dialogue)
It was 3 of our legions against 4000 of their …
He greets several soldiers, and enters the tent.
MAXIMUS
(calling out)
Faro, you’re still alive! Your luck is still with you.
FARO
And you, General! The gods still have a sense of humor!
Maximus laughs.
He turns to a washstand and washes his hands.
He glances up and sees Aurelius, seated on a throne, speaking with Commodus and several officers.
He walks on among the soldiers and political guests.
In an adjacent reception area of the tent, Lucilla and another woman of the imperial court are looking through a flap in the tent. Lucilla nods, pointing out Maximus.
Maximus walks up to the two officers from the battle, Quintus and a second officer.
2ND OFFICER
(to Maximus)
General.
Back to barracks, general?
MAXIMUS
Back to my wife, my son, my harvest.
QUINTUS
Maximus, the farmer. I still have difficulty imagining that.
MAXIMUS
You know, dirt cleans off much easier than blood, Quintus.
Commodus approaches. Two senators, standing nearby, turn as the Emperor’s son joins the soldiers.
COMMODUS
(to Maximus)
There he is.
MAXIMUS
Your Highness.
COMMODUS
(greeting)
Senator Gaius, Senator Falco.
(to Maximus)
Beware of Gaius. He’ll pour honeyed potion in your ear, and you’ll 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 of course, Senator Gaius is not influenced by that.
FALCO
Where do you stand, general? Emperor or Senate?
MAXIMUS
A soldier has the advantage of being able to look his enemy in the eye, Senator.
GAIUS
Well, with an army behind you, you could be extremely political.
COMMODUS
(to Maximus)
I warned you. I shall save you.
(nods to the others)
Senators.
Commodus walks alongside Maximus.
COMMODUS
Rome may soon need good men like you.
MAXIMUS
(cautiously)
How may I be of service, Highness?
COMMODUS
You’re a 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.
(moves closer to Maximus)
Maximus, we must save Rome from the politicians. Can I count on you when the time comes?
MAXIMUS
(resolutely)
Highness, when your father releases me I intend to return home.
COMMODUS
Well, no one’s earned it more. But don’t get too comfortable. I may call on you before long.
Lucilla’s here, did you know? She’s not forgotten you.
(pauses)
And now you’re the great man.
06 INT. ADJACENT RECEPTION AREA OF TENT. NIGHT.
Aurelius walks in, turns and sees Lucilla and the other woman, still looking through into the reception area. The other woman steps back, bowing. Lucilla turns and faces her father.
AURELIUS
If only you had been born a man. What a Caesar you would have made.
LUCILLA
(bows her head)
Father.
AURELIUS
(pensive)
You would have been strong. I wonder, would you have been just?
LUCILLA
(matter of fact)
I would have been what you taught me to be.
AURELIUS
Ah.
They start walking along together.
AURELIUS
How was your journey?
LUCILLA
Long. Very comfortable. Why have I come?
AURELIUS
I need your help, with your brother.
LUCILLA
(smiling)
Of course!
AURELIUS (cont’d)
He loves you. He always has. And he will need you now, more than ever.
(brusquely)
Enough of politics. Let us pretend that you’re a loving daughter, and I am a good father.
LUCILLA
This is a pleasant fiction, isn’t it?
07 EXT. FIELD FORTIFICATIONS. DAY.
Maximus is out walking among the troops, greeting soldiers.
He comes to the stables, and strokes the mane of one of his horses. He smiles.
At the sound of swords CLASHING, he turns and looks on as Commodus, with a group of several soldiers, all stripped to the waist, practices the sequence of slashing movements in a swordfight. Maximus pauses, watching.
08 INT. EMPEROR MARCUS AURELIUS’ QUARTERS. DAY.
Marcus Aurelius is writing at his desk, a scholar at work, completely absorbed.
Maximus, in formal general’s attire, enters and stands at attention.
MAXIMUS
You sent for me, Caesar?
Aurelius continues writing. His infirmity is apparent.
MAXIMUS
Caesar?
Aurelius speaks familiarly, picking up the thread of a debate they have enjoyed together before.
AURELIUS
Tell me again, Maximus. Why are we here?
MAXIMUS
For the glory of the empire, sire.
AURELIUS
Ah. Hm, I remember.
Do you see that map, Maximus? That is the world which I have created. For twenty-five years I have conquered, spilt blood, expanded the empire. Since I became Caesar I have known four years without war. Four years of peace in twenty! And for what?
He stands and walks round his desk.
AURELIUS (cont’d)
I have brought the sword, nothing more.
MAXIMUS
(protesting)
Caesar, your life is --
AURELIUS
Don’t call me that.
He walks from this study over towards the reception area.
AURELIUS (cont’d)
Come, please. Come, sit.
Maximus sits on a bench.
AURELIUS (cont’d)
Let us talk now, very simply, as men.
Aurelius sits on a sofa.
AURELIUS (cont’d)
Well, Maximus, talk.
MAXIMUS
(respectful, but angry)
Five thousand of my men are out there in the freezing mud. Three thousand of them are bloodied and cleaved, two thousand will never leave this place. I will not believe that they fought and died for nothing.
AURELIUS
And what would you believe?
MAXIMUS
They fought for you. And for Rome.
AURELIUS
And what is Rome, Maximus?
MAXIMUS
I’ve seen much of the rest of the world. It is brutal and cruel and dark. Rome is the light.
AURELIUS
Yet you have never been there. You have not seen what it has become.
(firmly)
I am dying, Maximus.
Aurelius speaks of things he has clearly reflected on for many years.
AURELIUS (cont’d)
(gently)
When a man sees his end, he wants to know there was 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 --
(hesitates)
-- will I be the emperor who gave Rome back her true self?
(wistfully)
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.
(moves over beside Maximus)
Maximus, let us whisper now, together, you and I.
(settling back)
You have a son. Tell me about your home.
Maximus relaxes, warmed by the memory.
MAXIMUS
My house is in the hills above Tejilla, a very simple place. Pink stones warm in the sun, a kitchen garden that smells of herbs in the day, jasmine in the evening. Through the gate is a giant poplar. Figs, apples, pears, and soil, Marcus! Black. Black like my wife’s hair! Grapes on the south slope, olives on the north, wild ponies play near the house, I tease my son he wants to be one!
AURELIUS
When was the last time you were home?
MAXIMUS
2 years, 264 days from this morning.
AURELIUS
I envy you, Maximus. It’s a good home. Worth fighting for.
Aurelius stands slowly.
AURELIUS
There is one more duty I would ask of you before you go home.
Maximus stands and faces Aurelius, at attention.
MAXIMUS
(formally)
What would you have me do, Caesar?
AURELIUS
(issuing command)
I want you to become the protector of Rome after I die.
I will empower you to one end alone: to give power back to the people of Rome and end the corruption that has crippled it.
(pauses)
Would you accept this great honor that I have offered?
MAXIMUS
With all my heart, no.
Aurelius reaches out and places his hand on Maximus’ shoulder.
AURELIUS
Maximus, that is why it must be you.
Aurelius drops his hand.
MAXIMUS
Surely a prefect, a senator, somebody who knows the city, who understands her politics?
AURELIUS
But you have not been corrupted by her politics.
Aurelius turns and walks away a few steps.
MAXIMUS
And Commodus?
AURELIUS
(turning back)
Commodus is not a moral man. You have known that since you were young. Commodus cannot rule. He must not rule.
(wistful)
You are the son I should have had.
(firmly)
Commodus will accept my decision. He knows that you command the loyalty of the army.
Aurelius sits.
MAXIMUS
I need some time, sire.
AURELIUS
Yes, by sunset I hope you will have agreed. Now, embrace me as my son.
(smiling)
And bring an old man another blanket.
09 EXT. OUTSIDE AURELIUS’ TENT, ADJACENT TO LUCILLA’S. DAY.
Maximus emerges from the imperial tent. He paces, his mind in turmoil over Aurelius’ request.
Lucilla walks out from under the awning of her tent. He turns and sees her.
LUCILLA
My father favors you now.
MAXIMUS
My lady.
LUCILLA
It was not always so.
MAXIMUS
Many things change.
LUCILLA
Many things. But not everything.
He turns away.
LUCILLA
Maximus, stop. Let me see your face.
(looking more closely at him)
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 again turns away.
LUCILLA
You’re lying.
He pauses, turning back.
LUCILLA (cont’d)
I could always tell when you were lying because you were never any good at it.
MAXIMUS
I never acquired your comfort with it.
LUCILLA
True. But then you never had to. Life is much simpler for a soldier.
(pauses)
Do you think me heartless?
MAXIMUS
I think you have a talent for survival.
He turns away yet again.
LUCILLA
(impatient)
Maximus, stop!
(laughing gently)
Is it really so terrible seeing me again?
MAXIMUS
No, I’m tired from battle.
LUCILLA
It hurts you to see my father so fragile.
(he nods)
Commodus expects my father will announce the succession within days. Will you serve my brother as you’ve served his father?
MAXIMUS
I will always serve Rome.
LUCILLA
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
(quietly)
Thank you.
MAXIMUS
And I hear that you have a son.
LUCILLA
(brightening)
Yes. Lucius. He’ll be nearly 8 years old.
MAXIMUS
My son is also nearly eight.
(bowing his head)
I thank you for your prayers.
He turns and leaves.
10 INT. MAXIMUS’ TENT. EVENING.
CICERO, Maximus’ soldier manservant, is washing drinking mugs in the corner of the tent.
Maximus is kneeling before a small shrine.
MAXIMUS
(praying)
Blessed mother, come to me with what the gods desire for my future.
Blessed father, watch over my wife and son with a ready sword.
Know that I only live to hold them again.
Ancestors, I honor you, and I will try to live with the dignity you have taught me.
He picks up two small figurines from the low table before the shrine. One is a carving of a woman, the other a young boy. He kisses the one of the woman, and then places them into a small satchel. It has a ritual air, the conclusion to his prayers.
He stands and sits down in his field chair.
MAXIMUS
Cicero!
Cicero brings Maximus a drink.
CICERO
Sir.
Cicero blows out the candles on the altar to Maximus' ancestors.
MAXIMUS
Do you ever find it hard to do your duty?
CICERO
(reflecting)
Sometimes I do what I want to do, the rest of the time I do what I have to.
MAXIMUS
We may not be able to go home after all.
11 INT. IMPERIAL TENT, ANTECHAMBER TO AURELIUS’ QUARTERS. EVENING.
Commodus walks out from behind a shroud, and approaches one of the Roman busts displayed in this small reception area. He comes up very close to it and touches its face.
Aurelius walks into this formal reception area.
AURELIUS
Are you ready to do your duty for Rome?
Commodus turns to face the emperor.
COMMODUS
Yes, father.
AURELIUS
You will not be emperor.
COMMODUS
(choking)
Which of the nobles will take my place?
AURELIUS
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
(shocked)
Maximus.
Auelius reaches to stroke the side of Commodus’ face, who leans his head away. Aurelius drops his hand.
AURELIUS
My decision disappoints you?
COMMODUS
(dignified, harsh)
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. Ambition, that can be a virtue when it drives us to excel. Resourcefulness.
(voice breaking)
Courage, perhaps not on the battlefield, but there are many forms of courage. Devotion -- to my family. But none of my virtues were on your list.
(near tears)
Even then it was as if you didn’t want me for your son.
Aurelius kneels before his son. A terrible guilt moves across his face.
AURELIUS
Commodus, you go too far.
COMMODUS
(weeping)
I searched the faces of the gods for ways to please you. To make you proud. One kind word. One full heart as you pressed me to your chest would be like the sun on my heart for 4000 years.
(a confused child)
What is it in me you hate so much?
AURELIUS
Commodus.
COMMODUS
All I’ve ever wanted was to live up to you, Caesar … father.
AURELIUS
(reaching up towards his son)
Commodus, your faults as a son is my failure as a father.
Commodus embraces his father’s head, his hands gently holding the older man’s head. Emotion drains from Commodus’ face, as he woodenly pulls Aurelius tightly against his chest.
COMMODUS
And I will go to the whole world until you have heard me.
Commodus’ grip on his father tightens; the son is strangling the father.
Aurelius, flailing, tries to push himself away from Commodus.
Commodus groans deep as his father’s struggling arms slowly go limp. Aurelius dies.
12 INT. MAXIMUS’ TENT. NIGHT.
Maximus wakes suddenly, drawing a dagger by his pillow. Quintus faces him.
QUINTUS
Maximus, the emperor needs you. It’s urgent.
13 INT. AURELIUS’ TENT. NIGHT.
Maximus walks quickly into Aurelius’ bedchamber.
COMMODUS
Amend with me, brother. Our great father is dead.
Maximus walks to the side of Aurelius’ bed, and holds his hand against the Emperor’s forehead, and neck, feeling for a pulse. Commodus stands at the threshold, watching.
Lucilla is standing off to one side, looking on, tears on her cheeks.
MAXIMUS
(evenly)
How did he die?
COMMODUS
The surgeons say there was no pain. His heart gave out as he slept.
Maximus leans down and kisses the corpse on the forehead.
MAXIMUS
(to Aurelius, softly)
Father.
Maximus still does not turn round.
COMMODUS
Your emperor asks for your loyalty, Maximus. Take my hand. I’ll only offer it once.
Maximus turns and looks hard at Commodus, and aside at Lucilla. He does not take Commodus’ hand. He strides out of the room.
MAXIMUS
Quintus!
Quintus hesitates, then follows.
Lucilla steps towards Commodus and forcefully slaps him twice. He does not respond.
She takes his hand, raises it and kisses the imperial ring.
LUCILLA
(grieving, angry, ironic)
Hail Caesar.
14 INT. MAXIMUS’ TENT. NIGHT.
Maximus walks in quickly from the forecourt of his tent. He is putting on his leather field armor.
MAXIMUS
(to Cicero)
I must talk to the senators. Wake them, I need their counsel. Quick, Gaius and Falco.
CICERO
Gaius and Falco.
MAXIMUS
(nodding to the corner)
Sword.
CICERO
Sword.
Quintus strides into Maximus’ tent.
QUINTUS
Maximus, please be careful, that was not prudent.
MAXIMUS
Prudent? The emperor has been slain.
QUINTUS
The emperor died of natural causes.
Maximus looks up at Quintus.
MAXIMUS
Why are you armed, Quintus?
QUINTUS
(calling out)
Guards!
(to Maximus)
Please don’t fight, Maximus.
Behind the curtain Cicero has started to draw Maximus’ sword.
MAXIMUS
(to Cicero, under his breath)
Don’t.
The guards enter.
QUINTUS
I’m sorry.
(issuing orders)
Caesar has spoken. Ride until dawn and then execute him.
MAXIMUS
Quintus, look at me.
(shouting)
Look at me!
(one soldier to another)
Promise me that you will look after my family.
QUINTUS
Your family will meet you in the afterlife.
MAXIMUS
NO!
Sudden sound of THUNDER as dark clouds move (FAST MOTION) over Maximus’ villa.
15 EXT. FOREST. DAY.
Maximus, bound and mounted on a horse, is being led by a small company of soldiers.
They dismount and a soldier moves into position beside Maximus. He holds a sword, ready to behead Maximus.
MAXIMUS
(praying)
Blessed father, watch over my wife and son. Know that I only live to hold them again.
SOLDIER
Kneel!
MAXIMUS
(to Centurion)
At least give me a clean death, a soldier’s death.
The Centurion nods to the soldier.
The soldier moves behind Maximus, and holds his sword up, preparing to drive it vertically down into Maximus’ body, an honorable death. He suddenly thrusts back with his head, a forceful blow into the soldier’s lower chest. Maximus stands, seizes the sword by the blade and drives it into the soldier’s chest like a knife, retracts it, then whirls round and tosses it in the air, catching it by the hilt. The Centurion is trying to draw his sword.
MAXIMUS
(crouching)
The frost. Sometimes it makes the blade stick.
He lunges and kills the Centurion.
Another Centurion, mounted and posted as guard 20 paces away, turns at the sound.
MAXIMUS
(calling out)
Praetorian!
The sound of a sword CUTTING through the air end over end. The sword impales the mounted guard.
A third Centurion, also mounted, positioned 20 paces on the other side, draws his sword.
Maximus picks up a sword, preparing to strike the Centurion as he charges.
The Centurion rides past Maximus, who, at the last instant, crosses to the other side of the running horse, and strikes.
The Centurion finishes his pass. He turns round, as if preparing to charge again, but falls slowly to the ground.
Maximus leans forward, blood flowing from a wound in his shoulder.
16 EXT. COUNTRYSIDE. DAY.
Maximus is riding across a far vista, leading a second horse tethered to his own.
17 EXT. COUNTRYSIDE. NIGHT.
Maximus is sitting next to a fire. His armor is on the ground. He is gazing into the flames.
The remembers fragments of his conversation with Aurelius, and his nightly prayers.
AURELIUS (V/O)
When was the last time you were home?
MAXIMUS (V/O)
(overlapping)
2 years 264 days from this morning. Blessed father watch over my wife and son … protect my wife and son with a ready sword … for all else is dust and air and know that I only live to hold them again. For all else is dust and air …
He’s exhausted, and deeply frightened for his family’s safety.
18 EXT. MAXIMUS’ VILLA. DAY.
Peaceful-looking sentries are standing at attention in a field outside the perimeter wall of Maximus’ villa in Spain.
Maximus’ son, who is standing at the center of a circle, is holding a rein and leading a white pony in exercises around him.
A regiment of mounted Roman troops approach down a road leading to the villa.
The wife and son look up, and the son smiles. He starts running to meet the troops.
Maximus is riding along a road.
SON
(running)
Papa! Papa!
Maximus hears his son’s voice, not physically, intuitively. He wakes from his exhausted sleep, and spurs his horse afresh.
The son waves and grins. He hesitates on the broad avenue between two rows of trees, for a moment uncertain about the troops galloping towards him. He starts running forward again, deciding that his father is teasing him.
His mother follows a short distance behind. She looks up, uncertain.
The boy pauses. The troops are approaching even faster, and ride over the boy..
His mother raises her hand to her mouth in shock.
Maximus’ horse takes a fall, throwing him to the ground.
The troops ride on in the direction of the mother.
Maximus walks across his fields, now a smoking ruin of bare, blackened ground, littered with the charred bodies of the sentries.
The shoulder wound and an injury from his fall slow him down. He is inside the villa grounds, walking towards the buildings of his home.
MEDIUM ON Maximus as he staggers up the walkway, passes the poplar, and hesitates at what lies before him.
PULL BACK to the lower half of two bodies hanging from the porch of the main building. In the frame Maximus stands between them, at a distance, looking on.
He lurches forward, falling to his knees. He covers the last few steps on his knees, reaching up up to them. He holds and kisses the blackened, smoking feet of his wife and son.
He collapses in grief.
He is asleep.
CLOSE ON his head, cradled between the mounds of two graves.
A foot steps into frame beside his head. The sound of VOICES, speaking in Arabic. Hands roughly pick him up.
19 EXT. DESERT, NORTH AFRICA. DAY.
Maximus’ hand is passing over a field of ripe grass, ready for harvest. Dream-image of his villa in Spain.
A landscape shuttles across the frame. The dream being displaced as he wakes. The sky darkens and moves by. His body is moving horizontally, as if floating a meter above the ground.
The sound of children LAUGHING, monkeys SCREECHING, swords CLASHING, wheels slowly TURNING, and metal implements suspended from the cart swinging back and forth, CLANGING.
He wakes slowly, to discover he is lying on his back, shackled, riding on a cart. A black man, JUBA, is walking behind the cart. He looks down at Maximus, and in voiceover speaks of Maximus’ family.
JUBA (V/O)
You will see them again. But not yet.
Maximus looks down at his wound, at slugs crawling in it. He tries to reach up to brush them away.
JUBA
Don’t. They will clean it.
Maximus looks up at the desert sun, and is dizzy for a moment.
JUBA
Don’t die. They’ll feed you to the lions.
He looks over at the next cart, an elaborate wagon with a cage. A lion is inside.
JUBA (cont’d)
They’re worth more than we are.
Camels and horses and other shackled men walk in front of and behind the two carts, a slave train crossing a desert.
What Juba is chewing on -- an herbal medicament -- he takes from his mouth and spreads on the open wound in Maximus’ shoulder.
JUBA
It feels better. See?
LONG SHOT from a cliff, showing the procession of slaves and animals moving across the desert.
20 EXT. ARAB MARKETPLACE. DAY.
Title on-screen: ZUCCHABAR, Roman Province
Sounds of people CALLING OUT in the market, dogs BARKING, and the SCREECHES of monkeys.
MEDIUM ON an old man, PROXIMO, sitting in an open-air drinking bazaar. He is hunched over, drinking from a small mug.
A slave and livestock dealer calls out.
SLAVEDEALER
Proximo, my old friend!
(approaching)
The days greet day when you are here.
(standing by Proximo)
Today is your most fortunate day.
Proximo reaches under the slavedealer’s robe and seizes him. The man cries out.
PROXIMO
Those giraffes you sold me. They won’t mate. They just walk around, eating, and not mating. You sold me queer giraffes. I want my money back.
SLAVEDEALER
Not a chance.
Proximo tightens his grip, and the slavedealer cries out again.
SLAVEDEALER
(gasping)
A special price for you!
PROXIMO
On what?
SLAVEDEALER
Have you seen my new stock? Come and see them.
21 EXT. SLAVEDEALERS’ MARKET AREA. DAY.
Proximo is being carried through a market street in an ornate litter.
The slavedealer and Proximo enter the grounds of the slave and livestock market. Maximus and Juba are manacled to posts.
PROXIMO
Do you have any that fight? I have a match coming up.
SLAVEDEALER
Some are good for fighting, others for dying. You need both, I think.
Proximo turns to Juba.
PROXIMO
Get up!
Juba stands.
Proximo takes hold of Juba’s shoulder, then slaps his buttock in an appraising manner. He takes hold of Juba’s hand, and turns it over to look at the palm.
PROXIMO
Your trade?
JUBA
I was a hunter.
SLAVEDEALER
No, no. I bought him from a saltmine in Carthage.
Proximo walks across to Maximus, and prods with a stick at the wound in his shoulder. He sees the Roman military ‘SPQR’ tattoo on Maximus’ upper arm.
PROXIMO
Mark of the legion. Deserter.
SLAVEDEALER
Maybe so. But who cares. He’s a Spaniard.
PROXIMO
I’ll take six, for one thousand.
SLAVEDEALER
A thousand?! The Numibian alone is worth two thousand!
PROXIMO
These slaves are rotten.
SLAVEDEALER
It all adds to the flavor.
Proximo turns to leave.
SLAVEDEALER
(rushing after him)
No, no. Wait. Wait! I’m trying to negotiate.
PROXIMO
(his last offer)
I’ll give you 2000, and 4000 for the beasts. That’s 5000 for an old friend.
22 EXT. STREET. DAY.
Proximo’s litter is approaching his compound.
PROXIMO
(shouting)
Hurry up! How long will it take me to get home.
23 EXT. WITHIN WALLS OF PROXIMO’S COMPOUND. DAY.
Proximo is walking along, inspecting the newly acquired slaves/gladiators as they fall into formation along the wall.
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 who brought you screaming into this world.
(pauses)
I did not pay good money for you for your company. I paid it so 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 --
He slowly claps his hands together several times.
PROXIMO (cont’d)
Gladiators, I salute you!
24 EXT. COMPOUND TRAINING AREA. DAY.
Proximo is watching as the new slaves are being drilled. After watching one gladiator’s response, he turns to a clerk.
PROXIMO
Yellow.
The clerk writes in a large ledger.
DISSOLVE TO the inner training area, where Proximo’s chief gladiator, HAGEN, used also as a trainer, is fencing with Juba. Hagen is using a wooden sword, attempting to bait Juba..
Juba lunges suddenly, tries to return Hagen’s blows.
Hagen pulls back, pushing aside Juba’s sword. He laughs appreciatively.
HAGEN
Good!
Proximo, sitting nearby under an awning, nods.
PROXIMO
Red.
HAGEN
Red.
Hagen picks up a brush and splashes red paint on Juba’s tunic.
PROXIMO
The Spaniard.
Maximus is pushed forward. He stands motionless, then raises in one hand the sword given to him, and tosses it to the ground. Hagen glances at Proximo, who nods. The trainer slaps the flat side of his sword against Maximus’ stomach. Maximus makes no reaction. Hagen glances again at Proximo, who nods again. The trainer slaps the sword agasinst Maximus upper arm. Again no reaction. Hagen pulls back his arm, readying to strike Maximus in earnest.
PROXIMO
Enough! His time will come.
HAGEN
Next!
25 INT. COMPOUND, SLAVES’ HOLDING CELL. NIGHT.
Juba turns from the doorway. He looks over at Maximus, who is sitting on a low platform with his back to the wall.
JUBA
Spaniard. Why don’t you fight? We all have to fight.
Maximus is using a knife to cut into the SPQR tattoo on his arm, removing it.
JUBA
(looking at the tattoo)
Is that a sign of your gods?
Maximus smiles at the irony, and nods.
JUBA
Will that not anger them?
Maximus smiles again as blood flows down his arm.
26 EXT. MARKET. DAY.
Bright red blood is poured on the backs of goats, as the gladiators are led through the streets. Hagen runs alongside Maximus.
HAGEN
(to Maximus)
The gods favor you. Red is the gods’ color. You will need their help today.
27 INT. ZUCCHABAR ARENA, CELLAR. DAY.
Proximo is walking in front of the seated gladiators in a low-ceilinged room. He is between them and a table.
PROXIMO
Some of you are thinking you won’t fight. And some that you can’t fight. They all say that …
He looks up at the ceiling, in the direction of the sounds of the arena above.
CROWD (O/S)
Kill! Kill! Kill!
PROXIMO (cont’d)
Until they’re up there.
He pulls a sword from a scabbard hanging on the wall
PROXIMO (cont’d)
Thrust this into another man’s flesh. They will applaud and love you for that. And you --
(thrusts the sword)
-- you may begin to love them --
(thrusts the sword again)
-- for that.
He drives the sword into the surface of the table, and steps away. He turns back.
PROXIMO (cont’d)
Ultimately we’re all dead men. Sadly we cannot choose how, but we can choose how we meet that end … in order that we are remembered … as men.
Maximus leans down and takes up a handful of sand. He rubs it between his hands.
28 EXT. FLOOR OF THE ARENA. DAY.
Four large gladiators who will be fighting the new slaves are slowly moving about in the arena. They wear leather tunics and large metallic bull-heads with horns, making them seem less-than-human.
29 INT. ARENA CELLAR. DAY.
The bolts holding the manacles in place round the ankles of the new gladiators are being struck off with a large mallet. They are being chained together in pairs, with one long chain to one wrist of each gladiator.
They walk up a set of stairs leading to a small holding area. A gate across one side leads out into the arena.
30 EXT. ARENA. DAY.
The four bull-head gladiators are ranged in front of the gate, swaying back and forth, readying their swords. The largest among them is swinging a studded iron ball at the end of a chain. The sound of the CHAIN, and the CROWD.
31 INT. ARENA HOLDING CELL. DAY.
Maximus, Juba, and Hagen are standing with several other gladiators in a small group, waiting for the gate to be opened.
Uncertainty is on the faces of Maximus and Juba.. And standing in front of Maximus, terror on the face of one of the other men. Urine runs down his leg. Maximus steps back.
32 EXT. ARENA. DAY.
The gate is pulled open. The men spill out in a disorganized mass. The studded iron ball swings and crashes against the skull of the man standing in front.
Maximus is chained to Juba, Hagen to another, and the one who was killed to another, and a last pair.
Maximus uses his shield to bludgeon one of the bull-men.
Hagen kills one of them.
The man chained to Hagen is killed, and Hagen severs the man’s hand at the wrist, freeing himself. He kills another.
Maximus and Juba working together kill another.
Two of the other new gladiators are killed.
Hagen kills another by lifting him and impaling him on a decorative horn fitted into the wall.
Cheers from the crowd after each death.
A net is thrown over the partner of the new gladiator just killed, and he is impaled on a trident.
Maximus and Juba face down another with a net and trident, getting the trident from him, and impaling him with it.
Bodies lie around the surviving gladiators: Hagen, Maximus, and Juba.
CIRCULAR PANNING SHOT moves round Maximus and Juba several times after the last death, showing the crowd behind them cheering and waving. They look back at the crowd, perplexed, horrified.
LONG SHOT, SPIRALLING UP above the arena, clouds swirling.
33 EXT. ROMAN FORUM. DAY.
LONG SHOT descending through clouds.
Far below, the environs of Rome, come into view. Color scheme is dark metallic blue, black & off-white, evoking a neo-fascist political landscape.
PANORAMIC SHOT above the buildings of the city.
LONG SHOT of an Imperial Procession entering Rome, moving up towards the forum.
GROUND-LEVEL SHOT of infantry walking in formation. A chariot rides within their ranks, carrying Commodus and Lucilla.
On the steps of the forum stand a reception party, among them several senators and a young boy, LUCIUS, Lucilla’s son.
GRACCHUS
He’s entering Rome like a conquering hero. What has he conquered?
FALCO
Give him time, Gracchus. He’s young. I think he could do very well.
GRACCHUS
For you, or for Rome?
The chariot pulls up at the foot of the forum steps.
FALCO
(to Lucius)
Go to your mother, Lucius. That’s what she’d like.
Lucius runs down the steps.
LUCIUS
(calling out)
Mother!
The music builds, forming a contrast to Maximus’ own ‘homecoming’.
Commodus and Lucilla walk up the steps. Lucillas embraces her son with pleasure.
COMMODUS
(to the senators)
Senators.
FALCO
(to Commodus)
Rome greets her new emperor. All your loyal subjects bid you welcome.
COMMODUS
Thank you, Falco. And for the subjects. I trust they weren’t too expensive.
34 INT. EMPEROR’S RECEPTION HALL. DAY.
A celebration is in progress at the return of Emperor Commodus. Gracchus is addressing the guests.
Commodus sits in a chair in the hall, holding a sword vertically, with its point against the floor, spinning it absently.
GRACCHUS
For your guidance, Caesar, the Senate has prepared a series of protocols to begin addressing the many problems in the city, beginning with basic sanitation for the Greek quarter, to combat the plague which is already springing up there. Caesar --
COMMODUS
(hushing him as one would a child)
Sh-sh.
Commodus stands and walks across the room.
COMMODUS (cont’d)
Don’t you see, Gracchus? That’s the very problem, isn’t it. My father spent all his time at study, at books and learning and philosophy. He spent his twilight hours reading scrolls from the Senate. And all the while, the people were forgotten.
GRACCHUS
But the Senate is the people, sire. Chosen from among the people to speak for the people.
Commodus holds the sword like a staff behind his head, resting his arms on it.
COMMODUS
(turning back)
I doubt if many of the 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 will be so good as to teach us, out of his own extensive experience.
(laughter)
COMMODUS
(he believes this)
I call it love. I am their father, the people are my children. And I shall open to my bosom and embrace them --
GRACCHUS
(scornful)
Have you ever embraced someone dying of plague, sire?
Commodus brings the sword down slowly, and walks towards Gracchus.
COMMODUS
No. But if you ever interrupt me again, I assure you that you shall.
Lucilla smoothly walks forward between the two men.
LUCILLA
Senator, my brother is very tired.
Commodus turns away. She accepts the scrolls from Gracchus.
LUCILLA
All that Rome requires will be done.
GRACCHUS
(to Lucilla, bowing)
As always, your lightest touch commands obedience.
35 INT. IMPERIAL CHAMBERS. DAY.
Commodus storms in, followed by Lucilla.
COMMODUS
Who are they to lecture me?
LUCILLA
Commodus, the Senate has its uses.
COMMODUS
What uses? All they do is talk. It should be just … you and me … and Rome.
He sits. Lucilla paces in front of him.
LUCILLA
Don’t even think it. Rome has always had a Senate.
COMMODUS
Rome has changed. It takes an Emperor to rule an Empire.
LUCILLA
Of course, but leave the people their --
COMMODUS
Illusions?
LUCILLA
Traditions.
COMMODUS
In father’s war with the barbarians he said himself it was an empty victory. Yet the people loved him.
LUCILLA
People always love victories.
COMMODUS
Why? They didn’t see the battles. What do they care about Germania?
LUCILLA
They care about the greatness of Rome.
COMMODUS
The greatness of Rome.
(leaning forward)
And what is that?
LUCILLA
It’s an idea.
(pauses)
Greatness … greatness is a vision.
COMMODUS
Exactly, a vision. Do you not see, Lucilla? I will give the people a vision of Rome, and they’ll love me for it. And they’ll soon forget the sermonizing of a few dry old men.
(with conviction)
I will give them a great vision of their past.
36 INT. EMPEROR’S BEDCHAMBER. DAY.
Commodus is standing over a model of his ‘vision’: the Colisseum. He places a small figurine of a gladiator on the floor of the model arena.
37 EXT. FORUM OF ROME. DAY.
AERIAL LONG SHOT of the buildings of Rome, the forum and Colosseum.
MEDIUM ON Falco, who stoops and picks up a flyer off the ground” it advertises the gladiatorial games in the Colosseum.
He sees Gracchus sitting in a drinking house and joins him. Falco slaps the advertisement down on the table as he sits.
FALCO
Games! 150 days of games!
GRACCHUS
He’s cleverer than I thought.
FALCO
All of Rome would be laughing at him, but everyone’s afraid of his Praetorians.
GRACCHUS
Fear and wonder. A powerful combination.
FALCO
Do you really think the people are going to be seduced by that?
GRACCHUS
I think he knows what Rome is. Rome is the mob. Conjuring and magic, and they’ll be distracted. Take away their freedom and still they’ll roar. The beating heart of Rome is not the marble of the Senate, it’s the sand of the arena. He’ll bring them death. And they will love him for it.
38 EXT. ARENA IN ZUCCHABAR. DAY.
AERIAL LONG SHOT of the desert, and then the town, and then the arena.
MEDIUM ON the arena, the crowds looking on expectantly.
MEDIUM ON the holding cage, Maximus at the far end. His name is called. He stands and walks between the seated gladiators. The others greet him as he calmly makes his way to the door.
OTHERS
Spaniard! Spaniard!
Five large masked gladiators stand looking uncertainly at the gate where Maximus stands waiting. They are ranged in front of it. But now they are the prey, and Maximus the predator.
The gate opens and he comes out, unhurried. He bows to his opponents. His attitude is different from when he was a soldier, he’s more casual now. It’s as though he has nothing to lose, except his life, which he values at nought.
The sound of the crowd CHEERING on its new hero.
The masked gladiators hesitate, then one attacks. Maximus kills him swiftly, easily.
He kills a second, third, fourth.
The last he kills by grabbing up a second sword and driving both into the man’s chest. He pulls out both swords and brings them together and across in a scissoring motion, beheading the other..
The sound of CHEERING rises.
Maximus walks further into the center of the arena. He throws one of the swords into the audience, overturning a table, scattering a few spectators.
He roars back at the crowd.
MAXIMUS
Are you not entertained!
Are you not entertained!
(pauses)
Is this not why you are here!?
CROWD
(chanting)
Spaniard!
Spaniard!
Spaniard!
He tosses the other sword to the ground in disgust, spits, and walks away towards the exit.
The sound of the crowd’s CHEERING continues.
39 INT. PROXIMO’S OFFICE. DAY.
PROXIMO
What do you want? Girl? Boy?
MAXIMUS
You sent for me?
PROXIMO
Yes, I sent for you.
You’re good, Spaniard, but you’re not that good. You could be magnificent.
MAXIMUS
I’m required to kill, so I kill. That is enough.
PROXIMO
That’s enough for the provinces, but not for Rome.
(walking away)
The young emperor has arranged a series of spectacles to commemorate his father, Marcus Aurelius. I find that amusing, as it was Marcus Aurelius the wise, the all-knowing, that closed us down. So finally after 5 years of scratching a living in flea-infested villages, we’re finally going back to where we belong – the Colosseum. Oh, you should see the Colosseum, Spaniard.
(relishing the memory)
Fifty thousand Romans following every movement of your sword, willing you to make that killer blow. The silence before you strike, it rises, rises up like a storm, as if you were the thunder god himself.
MAXIMUS
You were a gladiator?
PROXIMO
Yes. Yes, I was.
MAXIMUS
You won your freedom?
PROXIMO
A long time ago the emperor presented me with a rudius. It’s just a wooden sword, a symbol of your freedom. He touched me on the shoulder and I was free.
MAXIMUS
(laughing)
You knew Marcus Aurelius?
PROXIMO
(angrily)
I did not say I knew him. I said he touched me on the shoulder once.
MAXIMUS
(serious)
You asked me what I wanted. I too want to stand in front of the emperor, as you did.
PROXIMO
Then listen to me. Learn from me. I wasn’t the best because I killed quickly. I was the best because the crowd loved me. Win the crowd, and you’ll win your freedom.
MAXIMUS
I’ll win the crowd. I’ll give them something they’ve never seen before.
Proximo laughs, excited.
PROXIMO
So. Spaniard!
He turns and walks to the window. He looks out onto the desert.
PROXIMO (cont’d)
We shall go to Rome together and have bloody adventures. And the great whore will suckle us until we’re fat and happy and can suckle no more.
(turning round to face Maximus)
And then … when enough men have died … perhaps you will have your freedom.
Proximo picks up a Roman soldier’s leather breastplate, and tosses it to Maximus.
PROXIMO
Here, use this.
Maximus turns to leave.
40 EXT. ROOF OF PROXIMO’S COMPOUND. EVENING.
Several guards are posted.
Maximus is seated on a low stool.
Juba turns from the parapet and gestures to the horizon.
JUBA
It’s somewhere out there. My country, my home. My wife is preparing food. My daughters carry water from the river. Will I ever see them again? I think not.
MAXIMUS
(quietly)
Do you believe you will see them again when you die?
JUBA
Yes. But then I will die soon. They will not die for many years.
MAXIMUS
But you would -- wait?
JUBA
Of course.
MAXIMUS
You see … my wife, and my son … are already waiting for me.
JUBA
(uwavering certainty)
You’ll meet them again.
(pauses)
But not yet. Not yet.
Maximus is comforted by this new knowledge.
MAXIMUS
(under his breath)
I’ll see them.
(quietly)
But not yet.
Transition shots:
(Sudden SUNLIGHT fills the frame).
(LONG SHOT of horizon).
41 EXT. STREET IN ROME. DAY.
LONG ON the environs of Rome, ground level. A road leading into the city.
A cage-like gladiatorial coach is moving down a street, towards Proximo’s Roman compound. The gladiators sit inside, leaning against the bars. The coach enters the compound, the gates are locked.
Proximo gets down and walks up to a tall statue of a Roman god. He kisses his hand and then touches the foot of the statue.
PROXIMO
(to the statue)
Good to see you again, old friend.
(whispers)
Bring me good fortune.
The three gladiators, Maximus, Juba, and Hagen, stand and look up at the Colisseum, an awe-inspiring structure that towers above them.
JUBA
Have you ever seen anything like that before? I didn’t know men could build such things.
Proximo walks over and faces Maximus.
PROXIMO
(to Maximus)
Win the crowd.
42 INT. IMPERIAL BEDCHAMBER. DAY.
CLOSE ON Commodus, looking down, his attention focussed.
CLOSE ON Lucius, sleeping peacefully in bed.
Lucilla enters, sees her brother, a look of concern crosses her face. She comes up and stands by Commodus.
COMMODUS
He sleeps so well because he’s loved.
LUCILLA
Come, brother. It’s late.
They walk into an adjacent room. Lucilla prepares a sedative in a drink for her brother.
COMMODUS
I would make Rome the wonder of the ages. That’s what Gracchus and his friends don’t understand. All my desires are splitting my head to pieces.
She walks over carrying the drink.
LUCILLA
Commodus, drink this tonic.
COMMODUS
I think the time is almost right. I’m going to announce the dissolution of the Senate and a celebration to honor my father. Do you think I should? Are the people ready?
LUCILLA
(as if to a child)
I think you need your rest now.
COMMODUS
Stay with me.
LUCILLA
Still afraid of the dark?
COMMODUS
(looking away)
Still? Always …
(turning back)
Will you stay with me tonight?
LUCILLA
You know I won’t.
COMMODUS
Then kiss me.
She leans towards forward and kisses him on the forehead, then turns and walks to the door.
LUCILLA
Sleep, brother.
43 EXT. STREETS OF ROME. DAY.
The gladiators are being led through the street from Proximo’s compound to the Colosseum. People are gathering round them, women are coming up to Maximus and several of the others.
44 INT. COLOSSEUM FORECOURT. DAY.
Proximo is walking along with the Games Manager.
PROXIMO
The Emperor wants battles and I don’t want to sacrifice my best fighters.
MANAGER
The crowd wants battles and so the Emperor gives them battles. You get the battle of Carthage.
PROXIMO
The massacre of Carthage. Look, why don’t you go down to the prison, round up all the beggars and thieves.
MANAGER
We’ve done that.
PROXIMO
If you want to give away the best gladiators in the whole of the Empire then I want double the rates.
MANAGER
You’ll get the contract rates or you’ll get your contract cancelled. If you don’t like it you can crawl back down that shithole that you came from.
He puts on the gaudy Announcer’s wig and smiles scornfully. He turns and walks away.
45 EXT. LARGE COLOSSEUM CELL. DAY.
The gladiators’ cell has bars on one side, open to privileged visitors, for viewing. A young patrician boy walks up to the bars, accompanied by a man-servant.
LUCIUS
Gladiator! Are you the one they call ‘the Spaniard’?
MAXIMUS
Yes.
The boy gestures for him to come to the bars. Maximus stands and walks over.
LUCIUS
They said you were a giant, and they said you could crush a man’s skull with one hand.
MAXIMUS
A man’s? No.
A boy’s?
Lucius smiles at Maximus’ joke. Maximus smiles with him.
LUCIUS
Do they have horses in Spain?
MAXIMUS
Yes. Some of the best.
Maximus points to 2 small carvings of horses on the front of his breastplate.
MAXIMUS (cont’d)
This is Argento, and this is Lauto. They were my horses. They were taken from me.
LUCIUS
I like you, Spaniard. I shall cheer for you.
MAXIMUS
They let you go to the games?
LUCIUS
My uncle says it makes me strong.
MAXIMUS
And what does your father say?
LUCIUS
My father’s dead.
The man-servant steps forward.
MAN-SERVANT
Master Lucius, it is time.
LUCIUS
I have to go.
MAXIMUS
Your name is Lucius?
LUCIUS
My name is Lucius Varrus, after my father.
Lucius leaves.
Maximus leans back into the dark of the cell, concerned.
46 INT. COLOSSEUM, ARENA BASEMENT. DAY.
The gladiators are preparing for their first time in the arena.
Maximus kneels and picks up dirt, rubbing it between his hands.
He comes out into the armoury section and chooses a mask from a rack.
The gladiators assemble at the base of the long sloping ramp that emerges through one of the arena walls into the arena.
47 EXT. COLOSSEUM, EMPEROR’S SEATING AREA. DAY.
Commodus and Lucius come out into the imperial viewing area, his hand on the boy’s shoulder.
The Manager speaks to the audience.
MANAGER
On this day we reach back to hallowed antiquity to bring you a re-creation of the second fall of mighty Carthage.
(crowd CHEERS)
On the barren plains of Zarma there stood the invincible armies of the barbarian, Hannibal. Ferocious mercenaries and warriors from all brute nations bent on merciless destruction.
Commodus, your Emperor, is pleased to give you … the barbarian horde.
On the ramp, a games official speaks loudly to the assembled gladiators, standing in formation.
OFFICIAL
When the Emperor enters, raise your weapons, salute him, and then speak together. Face the Emperor, and don’t turn your back on him! Go, and die with honor!
The gladiators climb the ramp in 2 columns, emerging into the sound of the ROAR of the crowd in the colosseum.
In the imperial stands, Lucius, sitting now next to his mother, points out ‘the Spaniard’ to her.
Commodus comes to the railing of his viewing area, and nods down at the gladiators, now in formation on the arena floor.
They hail the Emperor, saluting. Maximus neither speaks nor salutes.
GLADIATORS
We who are about to die, salute you.
Maximus speaks quickly, while still standing in formation, to several of the gladiators around him.
MAXIMUS
Anyone here been in the army?
1st GLADIATOR
Yes.
2nd GLADIATOR
I served with you at Vindeburnum.
Maximus glances quickly at him, and nods.
MAXIMUS
(to 2nd Gladiator)
You can help me.
(to everyone)
Whatever comes out of those gates, we’ve got a better chance of survival if we work together. Do you understand? If we stay together, we survive --
The Manager’s voice rings out.
MANAGER
-- pleased to bring you the legionnaires of Scipio Africanus.
Gates swing open at both ends of the arena and five chariots come rushing out.
A driver, an Amazon archer, and a javelin thrower ride in each of the chariots. They ride around the loose cluster of gladiators, shooting arrows and throwing javelins.
Two of the gladiators are killed immediately.
The gladiators come closer together. The chariots come in nearer. The gladiators bring their shields together in a loose, square-shaped testudo, its members ranged only on the perimeter (not a solid square). Javelins and arrows now land repeatedly, but harmlessly, against the overlapping shields.
LONG SHOT from a viewing box of the 3 chariots driving around the now disciplined knot of gladiators. Proximo rushes to the parapet, grinning at the gladiators’ surprising defensive manoeuver.
MEDIUM ON a chariot turning round, and charging directly for the testudo, to break into it.
MAXIMUS
(calling out)
Fall!
The gladiators drop to the ground, bracing the bottom of their shields together, against the ground, interlocked. The first chariot approaches. A long blade extending out from the axle of this chariot, as with the other chariots intended to maim and cleave in mid-calf, is driven to the side by the wall of shields.
A second chariot turns and charges towards them. Archers from the other chariots continue firing arrows.
The gladiators rise, reposition themselves, and kneel again into the testudo.
MAXIMUS
Hold! Together! Together!
The second chariot nears them.
MAXIMUS
Fall!
This time the side of the chariot comes closer.
MAXIMUS
As one!
They lift their shields together, like a flat iron plate, overturning the chariot. A third chariot piles up behind the overturned one, colliding and itself overturning against the wall.
Maximus releases and mounts one of the horses from the first chariot. The two chariots remaining are at the far end of the arena. Reaching down he picks up a jvelin and gives chase to the first chariot. He throws the javelin and kills one of its riders. He rides out in front of this one, and as they turn the bend, his horse conceals the earlier, overturned chariot. At the last moment he veers to the side and the chariot behind him collides into the first one. He slows down, and as he rides by, another gladiator tosses him a sword. He reaches the end of the arena.
MAXIMUS
(calling out)
Form two columns here!
The gladiators form into a long column, one beside the other, as the chariots, a few paces apart, charge towards them. The gladiators shoot arrows and fling javelins at the passing charioteers.
Maximus rides down the center between the two approaching chariots. As he passes he thrusts up, cutting the throat of the driver on one side. Bringing his sword-arm round he thrusts down, cutting the throat of the driver on the other side.
The gladiators break formation and overwhelm the other riders on the chariots.
The sound of the crowd in an UPROAR, CHEERING wildly, gesturing and waving.
Maximus drops the sword and picks up another javelin. He rides to the far end of the arena, opposite the imperial stands.
In the Emperor’s box, Commodus nods to the Manager, who comes over.
COMMODUS
My history is a little hazy, Cassius, but shouldn’t the barbarians lose the battle of Carthage?
MANAGER
Uh, yes, Sire. Uh, forgive me, Sire.
COMMODUS
No, I rather enjoy surprises.
COMMODUS
(pointing at Maximus)
Who is he?
Maximus is pacing his horse back and forth before the Emperor’s box.
MANAGER
They call him the Spaniard, Sire.
COMMODUS
I think I’ll meet him.
MANAGER
Yes, Sire.
Maximus tosses down the javelin and dismounts.
A door opens onto the arena floor and two long columns of Roman soldiers file out quickly.
Maximus returns to stand with the others.
The soldiers form into a square, surrounding the gladiators.
The company sargeant strides forward.
SARGEANT
(to the gladiators)
Drop your weapons!
(to Maximus)
Gladiator, the Emperor has asked for you.
MAXIMUS
I am at the Emperor’s service.
Commodus comes out through the same door. The crowd CHEERS.
Maximus believes he has arrived at the moment of his vengeance. He sees a broken-off arrowhead on the ground, and kneels, as if in obeisance, as the Emperor crosses the arena. He picks up the arrowpoint, hiding it under his hand and sleeve.
In the stands, Lucilla leans forward, half-suspecting who ‘the Spaniard’ is.
As Commodus nears Maximus, Lucius suddenly runs out and joins his uncle, who rests his hands lightly on the boy’s shoulders.
COMMODUS
(to Maximus)
Rise, rise.
Maximus stands.
COMMODUS (cont’d)
Your fame is well-deserved, Spaniard. I don’t think there’s ever been a gladiator to match you. As for this young man, he insists you’re Hector reborn …
(half-turning to Lucius)
Or was it Hercules?
(to Maximus)
Why doesn’t the hero reveal himself and tell us all your real name. You do have a name.
MAXIMUS
My name is gladiator.
Maximus turns and walks away.
COMMODUS
How dare you show your back to me!
(grumbling of surprise from crowd)
You will remove your helmet and tell me your name!
Maximus slowly takes off his helmet and turns around.
MAXIMUS
My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius. Commander of the armies of the north. General of the Felix Legions. A loyal servant to the true Emperor, Marcus Aurelius. Father to a murdered son, husband to a murdered wife, and I will have my vengeance, in this life or in the next.
Commodus looks at Maximus in shock. He looks down, and nods at Quintus, who gives a command.
The soldiers draw their swords, and take two steps towards Maximus. The other gladiators come round and close ranks near Maximus.
It is a momentary stand-off between the two groups.
The crowd begins chanting.
CROWD
Live!
Live!
Live!
Live!
Commodus’ expression of shocked fear is replaced by one of indulgence … of ‘his’ people.
He ceremoniously holds out his hand, and slowly turns his thumb up.
The sound of the crowd CHEERING.
Maximus raises a clenched fist to the crowd, as the CHEERING continues.
The gladiators run in disciplined formation back towards the center of the arena.
The elevator platform used to raise and lower gladiators into the arena, descends into the complex of basement chambers, where the sound of the gladiaors chanting takes over, leaving behind the sounds of the CHEERING of the ‘people’.
Maximus walks between rows of CHANTING gladiators.
GLADIATORS
Maximus!
Maximus!
Maximus!
Maximus!
48 INT. EMPEROR’S STATE HALL. EVENING.
Commodus is at his desk, signing scrolls. He hands one to a scribe standing nearby, and turns to the next.
COMMODUS
Why is he still alive?
LUCILLA
I don’t know.
COMMODUS
He shouldn’t be alive. It vexes me. I’m terribly vexed.
(guiltily)
I did what I had to do. If father had had his way, the Empire would have been torn apart. You do see that?
LUCILLA
Yes.
COMMODUS
What did you feel when you saw him?
LUCILLA
I felt nothing.
COMMODUS
He wounded you deeply, didn’t he?
LUCILLA
No more than I wounded him.
COMMODUS
They lied to me in Germania. They told me he was dead. If they lied to me, they don’t respect me. If they don’t respect me, how can they ever love me?
LUCILLA
Then you have to let it the legions know that treachery will not go unpunished.
COMMODUS
(admiring)
Oh, sister. I wouldn’t want to be your enemy.
LUCILLA
What will you do now?
49 INT. PROXIMO’S COMPOUND, CELL. NIGHT.
The cell door us unlocked and Maximus is led into another, adjacent cell, where his arms are shackled to the wall. A figure in the corner turns round, lowering a heavy cloak to her shoulders.
Lucilla looks across at Maximus.
LUCILLA
(ironic)
Rich matrons pay well to be pleasured by the greatest champions.
MAXIMUS
(angrily)
I knew he would send assassins. I didn’t know he would send his best.
LUCILLA
Maximus, he doesn’t know.
MAXIMUS
My family was burned and crucified while they were still alive.
LUCILLA
(softly)
I knew nothing --
She has stepped within the range of his chains. With one hand he grabs her by the throat, and holds her at arm’s length. She does not flinch.
MAXIMUS
(furious)
Don’t lie to me!
LUCILLA
I wept for them.
MAXIMUS
(scornful)
As you wept for your father?
As you wept for your father?
LUCILLA
(fiercely)
I have been living in a prison of fear since that day. To be unable to mourn your father for fear of your brother. To live in terror every day because your son is heir to the throne.
(sadly)
I’ve wept.
MAXIMUS
My son was innocent!
LUCILLA
(flaring up)
So … is … mine! Must my son die too before you’ll trust me?
He releases her, abruptly, harshly.
MAXIMUS
It doesn’t matter if I trust you or not.
LUCILLA
The gods have spared you. Don’t you understand?
(declaring)
Today I saw a slave become more powerful than the Emperor of Rome!
MAXIMUS
The gods have spared me? I am at their mercy! With the power only to amuse a mob.
LUCILLA
This is power. The mob is Rome. And while Commodus controls them he controls everything. Listen to me. My brother has enemies, most of all in the Senate. But the people follow him. No one would dare stand up to him, until you.
MAXIMUS
They oppose him, yet they do nothing.
LUCILLA
There are some politicians who have dedicated their lives to Rome. One man above all. If I can arrange it, will you meet him?
MAXIMUS
Do you not understand? I may die in this cell tonight, or in the arena tomorrow. I am a slave. What possible difference can I make?!
LUCILLA
This man wants what you want.
[He resists this call to return to the world, to fight for something more than his own vengeance.]
MAXIMUS
(angrily, overwhelmed)
Then have him kill Commodus!
LUCILLA
(calm, saddened)
I knew a man once. A noble man. A man of principle, who loved my father. And my father loved him. This man served Rome well.
MAXIMUS
(self-controlled, quietly)
That man is gone. Your brother did his work well.
LUCILLA
Let me help you.
MAXIMUS
(softly, as if agreeing)
Yes. Help me.
(leaning nearer to her)
Forget you ever knew me. And never come here again.
(calling out harshly)
Guard! The lady is finished with me.
[CRISIS: Maximus is faced with a choice: whether to continue living only for himself, for his desire for vengeance and his own death (to achieve reunion with his family), OR, to live beyond his own life and help those around him, including Lucilla, the Senate and Rome. He refuses this challenge. The succeeding scenes show his reversal of that decision.]
50 EXT. PROXIMO’S COMPOUND, LARGE COMMON CELL. DAY.
Guards are patrolling the corridor. In the large common cell a group of gladiators are playing a game at a table.
Maximus, Juba, and Hagen are sitting at another table. Juba and Hagen are eating.
HAGEN
Maximus, you commanded legions? And had many victories?
(Maximus nods)
In Germania?
MAXIMUS
(smiling)
In many countries.
The cook calls out to Maximus.
COOK
General!
Maximus stands and goes to pick up his plate of food. He returns, and Juba signals that the food may be poisoned. Hagen takes a spoonful, tastes it and gags, as though poisoned. He starts laughing. The others join in with him.
Juba grows serious again.
JUBA
(to Maximus)
You have a great name. You must kill your name before he kills you.
51 EXT. COLOSSEUM, SENATORS’ SEATING AREA. DAY.
Trumpets BLARE.
Gracchus arrives and joins two other senators.
GRACCHUS
(greeting the others)
Senator.
GAIUS
Senator Gracchus. I never thought I’d see you enjoying the pleasures of the vulgar crowd.
GRACCHUS
I’ve never pretended to be a man 'of' the people, Senator. But I do try to be a man 'for' the people.
CLOSE ON Cicero (Maximus’ servant on the Germania campaign) in the crowd.
MEDIUM ON the Manager, rising to address the audience.
MANAGER
People of Rome! On the 4th day of Antioch we can celebrate the 64th day of the games. And in his majestic charity the Emperor has named this day to favor the people of Rome with an historical final match. Returning to the Colosseum today after 5 years in retirement, Caesar is pleased to bring to you the only undefeated champion in Roman history, the legendary Titus the Gaul.
52 INT. COLOSSEUM BASEMENT, END OF RAMP. DAY.
Maximus is about to board the ramp that leads up into the center of the arena. Proximo is trying to caution Maximus.
PROXIMO
He knows too well how to manipulate the mob.
MAXIMUS
Marcus Aurelius had a dream that was Rome, Proximo. This is not it. This is not it!
PROXIMO
Marcus Aurelius is dead, Maximus. We mortals are but shadows and dust.
Maximus strides up the ramp.
PROXIMO (cont’d)
(shouting after him)
Shadows and dust!
MANAGER (O/S)
Caesar is proud to give you … Gaius Maximus.
[Maximus acknowledges Marcus Aurelius’ dream of what Rome might again become, and with it, his promise.]
53 EXT. COLOSSEUM, EMPEROR’S SEATING AREA. DAY.
Commodus is standing, looking out over the crowd, as Maximus is announced and comes out. Lucilla stands beside him.
COMMODUS
They embrace him like he’s one of their own.
LUCILLA
The mob is fickle, brother. He’ll be forgotten in a month.
COMMODUS
No, much sooner than that. It’s been arranged.
54 EXT. FLOOR OF ARENA. DAY.
The crowd is chanting Maximus’ name.
CLOSE ON Cicero in the crowd.
Maximus approaches Titus the Gaul, a gladiator a head taller than himself, bulkier.
Moments after their swords first come together, two columns of arena attendants run into the arena. The first column lifts up a heavy chain hidden in the sand, and pulling it, releases a spring-driven cage-door set into the floor of the arena. A large tiger pounces out.
The chain the attendants are holding is the tiger’s leash. Four men in the first column hold back the tiger. Titus tries to trick Maximus into the tiger’s path.
Their swordplay continues, several times Maximus is driven close tothe tiger.
The second column pull on another chain.
Maximus rolls and springs away from a second trap door, which releases another tiger.
Titus leads Maximus into the path of the third trap-door, which opens and a third tiger emerges. It lands on Maximus’ back, and he swivels over and drives his sword into its neck.
He stands and Titus stands over him, holding a sword in each hand. Maximus blocks one thrust, and wrests that sword from Titus. Maximus rolls again and picks it up as Titus swings and misses, driving the second sword down into the sand. Maximus, still lying, picks up and hefts the narrrowed pick-axe end of a short sword through Titus’ foot, nailing him to the ground. He reaches up and pushes Titus over, who lands heavily on his back.
Maximus rolls again and stands.
The sound of the crowd CHANTING.
CROWD
Death!
Death!
Death!
Death!
Maximus picks up a long sword, goes over to the former champion, and raises Titus’ visor with the end of the sword. Commodus, looking vexed, signals with his thumb down. Maximus pauses, turns away, and drives the sword into the ground, sparing Titus.
The crowd falls silent.
A single voice in the crowd calls out.
VOICE
Maximus the Merciful!
CROWD
Maximus!
Maximus!
Maximus!
A company of soldiers comes out onto the arena sand. They surround Maximus. The Emperor comes out and enters the circle of soldiers. He walks up to Maximus.
COMMODUS
What am I going to do? You simply won’t die. Are we so different, you and I? You take life when you have to, as I do.
MAXIMUS
I have only one more life to take, then it is done.
COMMODUS
Take it now!
Maximus turns, and walks away in the direction of the arena exit, beyond the perimeter of soldiers.
COMMODUS
(to Maximus’ back)
They tell me your son squealed like a girl when they nailed him to the cross. And your wife … moaned like a whore when they ravaged her … again … and again … and again.
Maximus turns around and advances a couple steps.
MAXIMUS
The time for honoring yourself will soon be at an end, Highness.
He turns and leaves, walking towards the exit.
55 EXT. ON THE STREET. DAY.
Maximus emerges from the Colosseum out into the street, flanked by guards. Crowds line the street. Cicero calls out repeatedly from the edge of the crowd.
CICERO
(calling out)
General! General! General!
MAXIMUS
(calling back)
Cicero!
Cicero runs along behind the crowd.
MAXIMUS
Where are you camped?
CICERO
At Ostia.
Cicero pushes through the crowd to the street opposite Maximus, who steps over to him.
MAXIMUS
Tell them their General lives.
Cicero pushes a small satchel into Maximus’ hand.
GUARD
(impatiently, to Cicero)
Move along!
56 INT. PROXIMO’S COMPOUND, CELL. NIGHT.
Maximus takes out the figurines. He kisses the one of his wife several times, then sets them on a small ledge before him.
He prays.
Juba looks on.
JUBA
Can they hear you?
MAXIMUS
(thickly)
Who?
JUBA
Your family. In the Afterlife.
MAXIMUS
Oh yes!
JUBA
What do you say to them?
MAXIMUS
(warmly)
To my boy … I tell him I’ll see him again soon … and to keep his heels down when he’s riding his horse … To my wife …
(he smiles)
… that’s none of your business.
They laugh together quietly.
57 INT. EMPEROR’S CHAMBERS. NIGHT.
Commodus is pacing, Quintus of the Imperial Guard is seated against the wall.
COMMODUS
And now they love Maximus for his mercy. So I can’t just kill him, that would make him even more merciful. The whole thing is like some crazed nightmare.
QUINTUS
(cautiously)
He is defying you. His every victory is an act of defiance. The mob sees this and so do the Senate. Every day he lives they grow bolder.
(firmly)
Kill him.
COMMODUS
No! I will not make a martyr of him.
QUINTUS
(pedantic, and quietly vicious)
I have been told of a certain sea snake that has a very unusual method of attracting its prey. It will lie at the bottom of the ocean as if wounded.
Lucilla enters the forecourt of Commodus’ chambers, and overhears them.
QUINTUS (cont’d)
Then its enemies will approach while it lies quiet and still, and then its enemies will take little bites of it. And yet it remains still …
COMMODUS
So, we’ll lie still and let our enemies come to us, and nibble. And then … let the Senate approach.
58 EXT. PROXIMO’S COMPOUND. DAY.
Cicero enters the viewing area adjacent to the gladiators’ cell, and walks up to the bars.
Maximus comes up, and they hunch over to speak quickly.
MAXIMUS
Cicero, an old friend. I thought I’d seen you for the last time.
CICERO
I thought you were dead!
MAXIMUS
How long have the men been in Ostia?
CICERO
All winter.
MAXIMUS
And how do they look?
CICERO
Fat and bored.
MAXIMUS
Who’s in command?
CICERO
Some fool from Rome.
MAXIMUS
How soon do you think they can be ready?
CICERO
For you, tomorrow.
MAXIMUS
I need you to do something for me.
59 EXT. IN THE STREET. DAY.
Cicero, in the street, buys food from a stall. An open-air puppet show is in progress with a life-size Maximus and Commodus. A narrator satirizes their rivalry at Commodus’ expense.
Lucilla’s litter is carried past. Cicero approaches, bowing.
CICERO
(calling out)
My lady! I served your father in Vindeburnum!
(running alongside)
My lady, I served your father in Vindeburnum!
(bowing again)
I served under General Maximus. I serve him still.
Lucilla leans forward in the litter.
LUCILLA
(calling to litter-bearers)
Stop! Stop.
LUCILLA (cont’d)
(to guards)
Stand back!
CICERO
The General sends word he will meet your politician.
She hands him a few coins.
LUCILLA
For your loyalty, sir.
The litter continues on its way.
[CRISIS: Maximus has shown here that he has now decided to help the Senate.]
60 INT. PROXIMO’S COMPOUND, CELL. DAY.
Proximo opens a cell door.
Lucilla walks in.
LUCILLA
(to Proximo)
Leave us!
Proximo leaves.
LUCILLA
(calling out quietly)
Senator Gracchus!
Gracchus enters through another door from an adjoining cell.
MAXIMUS
(mildly ironic)
Hail!
GRACCHUS
I hope my coming here today is evidence enough that you can trust me.
MAXIMUS
The Senate is with you?
GRACCHUS
The Senate? Yes. I can speak for them.
MAXIMUS
You can buy my freedom and smuggle me out of Rome?
GRACCHUS
To what end?
MAXIMUS
Get me outside the city walls. Have fresh horses to take me to Ostia, my army is encamped there. By nightfall of the second day I shall return at the head of 5000 men.
LUCILLA
But the legions all have new commanders, loyal to Commodus.
MAXIMUS
Let my men see me alive and you shall see where their loyalties lie.
GRACCHUS
This is madness! No Roman army has entered the capital in a hundred years.
LUCILLA
Gracchus.
GRACCHUS
(protesting)
I will not trade one dictatorship for another!
MAXIMUS
The time for half-measures and talk is over … Senator.
GRACCHUS
(facing down Maximus)
And after your glorious coup, what then? You will take your 5000 warriors …
(ironic)
… and leave?
MAXIMUS
I will leave. The soldiers will stay for your protection, under command of the Senate.
GRACCHUS
(mildly scornful)
Once all Rome is yours, you will just give it back to the people.
(pauses)
Tell me why.
MAXIMUS
Because that was the last wish of a dying man. I will kill Commodus. The fate of Rome I leave to you.
Gracchus hesitates, reflecting.
GRACCHUS
(deciding)
Marcus Aurelius trusted you. His daughter trusts you. I will trust you.
But we have little time. Give me two days and I will buy your freedom.
(grimly)
And you. You stay alive, or I will be dead.
61 INT. PROXIMO’S OFFICE. DAY.
Proximo turns around. Maximus is leaning against a table. A guard stands at the door.
PROXIMO
It won’t work. The Emperor knows too much. And as for me, it’s becoming dangerous.
He glances in the direction of the guard.
MAXIMUS
You’ll be paid on my return. I give you my word.
PROXIMO
(laughs)
Your word. What if you don’t return?
MAXIMUS
Do you know what it was to have trust, Proximo?
PROXIMO
Trust! Who am I to trust?
MAXIMUS
I will kill Commodus.
PROXIMO
Why would I want that? He makes me rich.
(pauses)
Alright, I know that you are a man of your word, General. I heard that you’ll die for honor, die for Rome, that you would die for the memory of your ancestors.
(shrugs)
But I, on the other hand, I am an entertainer.
Proximo rests his hand on Maximus’ shoulder a moment.
PROXIMO
(calling out)
Guard!
Maximus steps to the door, and turns round.
MAXIMUS
He killed the man who set you free.
62 INT. EMPEROR’S CHAMBERS. EVENING.
Lucilla walks into the room, then turns to leave. Commodus is sitting in shadow, by his model of the Colosseum.
COMMODUS
Where have you been? I sent for you?
She turns back into the room.
LUCILLA
Please, brother.
COMMODUS
What’s troubling you?
She makes no reply.
COMMODUS
Does Gracchus have a new lover?
LUCILLA
I don’t know.
He stands and walks across to his bed, and sits.
COMMODUS
I thought you’d seen him. He affects everyone like a putrid fever. For the health of Rome the Senate must be bled, and he will bleed too. Very soon.
LUCILLA
Not tonight.
COMMODUS
Do you know what someone said to me once? It’s a dream … a frightful dream … life is. Do you think that’s true?
LUCILLA
I don’t know.
COMMODUS
I think it is. And I have only you to share it with.
She comes over and sits beside him. He rests his head on her shoulder, and then slowly pushes her down. He traces her lips with a fingertip, and then places his finger against his mouth. He rests his head against her neck and shoulder.
COMMODUS
You know I love you.
LUCILLA
(without emotion)
And I love you.
Two beats.
She moves out from under him, and stands.
She comes out of the room and walks quickly down the corridor past the guards, pulling her scarf over her head.
63 EXT. GRACCHUS’ VILLA. DAY.
Gracchus is in the courtyard, feeding a flock of tame geese. A male attendant looks towards the gate where a company of the Emperor’s soldiers (Praetorians) have entered the grounds.
ATTENDANT
Sir, Praetorians.
The soldiers march into the courtyard. Gracchus walks over, saying nothing.
They lead him away.
64 INT. PROXIMO’S COMPOUND, CELL. DAY.
Proximo is at the cell door. Maximus turns towards him.
PROXIMO
Congratulations, you have very persuasive friends.
Lucilla comes in.
LUCILLA
My brother has had Gracchus arrested. We can’t wait any longer. We must leave tonight. Proximo will come at midnight to take you to the gate. Your servant, Cicero, will be waiting there with horses.
MAXIMUS
You have done all this?
LUCILLA
Yes.
MAXIMUS
(alarmed)
You risk too much.
LUCILLA
I have much to pay for.
MAXIMUS
You have nothing to pay for. You love your son. You’re strong for him.
LUCILLA
I am tired of being strong. My brother hates all the world. And you most of all.
MAXIMUS
Because your father chose me.
LUCILLA
No. Because my father loved you.
And because … I loved you.
MAXIMUS
(gently)
A long time ago.
LUCILLA
Was I very different then?
Three beats.
MAXIMUS
You laughed more.
She smiles ruefully.
LUCILLA
(vulnerable)
I have fought all my life alone … except with you. Understand?
MAXIMUS
Yes.
He kisses her.
65 INT. EMPEROR’S BEDCHAMBER. EVENING.
The sound of Lucius PLAYING in the hall. He is fencing with two slaves, hitting a wooden sword against theirs, as he walks forward.
LUCIUS
Back!
Back!
Back!
Back!
Commodus rises from his bed and comes out into the hall.
COMMODUS
Lucius, isn’t it a little late to be playing a legionnaire?
Commodus takes up one of the toy swords.
LUCIUS
I’m not a legionnaire.
COMMODUS
Not a legionnaire?
LUCIUS
I’m a gladiator.
COMMODUS
A gladiator? Gladiators only fight in the games. Wouldn’t you rather be a great Roman warrior, like Julius Caesar?
LUCIUS
(still playing with the sword)
I’m Maximus, the savior of Rome.
COMMODUS
The savior of Rome?
He kneels beside the boy, leaning in close to him.
COMMODUS (cont’d)
And who said that?
Lucius whispers into Commodus’ ear, as if they are playing a game.
COMMODUS (cont’d)
(aloud)
Were they?
66 INT. EMPEROR’S BEDCHAMBER. EVENING.
Commodus and Lucius are sitting up on the bed. They are playing and laughing.
LUCIUS (O/S)
She couldn’t!
COMMODUS
Yes she did.
Commodus lays his hand against the boy’s chest.
COMMODUS (cont’d)
A viper pressed here, right into her heart.
Lucius laughs again, as if at a ghost story.
The sound of Lucilla’s FOOTSTEPS.
COMMODUS
Yes, you see, Lucius, sometimes royal ladies behave very strangely and do very odd things when they ought not to.
LUCIUS
Well, I think it’s silly.
COMMODUS
Yes. So do I. So do I.
(calls out)
Sister! Join us. I’ve been reading to dear Lucius.
LUCIUS
I’ve been reading too.
COMMODUS
Yes. He’s a very clever little boy. He’ll make a grand Emperor one day. We’ve been reading about the great Mark Antony’s adventures in Egypt.
LUCILLA
And the Queen killed herself with a snake.
COMMODUS
And I’m just waiting to hear what happened to our ancestors.
(to Lucius)
If you’re very good tomorrow I’ll tell you the story of Uncle Claudius.
(watching Lucilla)
He was betrayed by those closest to him, by his own blood. They whispered in dark corners. They went out late at night, and conspired … and conspired. But the Emperor Claudius knew they were up to something … he knew they were busy little bees.
Lucilla is shocked. Tears flow freely, silently down her cheeks.
COMMODUS (cont’d)
And one night he sat down with one of them, and he looked at her and said: ‘Tell me what you’ve been doing, busy little bee, or I shall strike down those dearest to you. You shall watch as I bathe in their blood.’ And the Emperor was heartbroken. The little bee had wounded him more deeply than anyone else could ever have done.
(turning back to Lucius)
And what do you think happened then, Lucius?
LUCIUS
(near tears, frightened)
I don’t know, Uncle.
COMMODUS
The little bee told him everything.
67 EXT. A STREET OUTSIDE PROXIMO’S COMPOUND. NIGHT.
Troops are marching through the streets, approaching Proximo’s compound.
68 INT. SENATOR’S BEDCHAMBER. NIGHT.
An assassin releases a snake into Gaius’ bed.
69 EXT. PROXIMO’S COMPOUND. NIGHT.
The troops arrive at the gates of Proximo’s compound.
SARGEANT
(banging on the gate)
Open up in the name of the Emperor, Proximo!
In his cell, Maximus looks up.
SARGEANT
(at the gate)
Open the gates in the name of the Emperor! Proximo!
Proximo walks quickly down the corridor, carrying a large ring of keys.
SARGEANT (O/S)
Open the gates!
Proximo arrives at Maximus’ cell.
SARGEANT (O/S)
Open the gates, Proximo! Do you want to die, old man?
Proximo hands the keys through the bars to Maximus.
PROXIMO
Here. Everything has been prepared. It seems you have won your freedom.
MAXIMUS
(hesitates)
Proximo, are you in danger of becoming a good man?
Proximo makes a guttural noise and quickly turns away.
At the gates, the troops throw grappling hooks along the top.
SARGEANT (O/S)
You. In the name of the Emperor, die.
Maximus unlocks his cell door.
MAXIMUS
Juba!
He gives the keys to Juba, who starts unlocking the other cell doors.
The grappling hooks are pulled by soldiers on horseback, and a section of the wall comes down.
The troops file quickly into the compound.
Maximus meets with the others, all assembled now in the largest central cell.
MAXIMUS
I only need those among us who will not be careless with their lives. If you don’t want any part of this, go back to your cells.
HAGEN
We will wait here for you, Maximus.
In the cell, Maximus hestitates to leave.
ALL
Strength and honor!
Maximus stands and faces Juba. He presses his forehead against Juba’s, in farewell.
MAXIMUS
Strength … and honor!
The troops are spreading out in a disciplined line, archers in behind, as the gladiators come out through several doors of the large cell into the courtyard, carrying swords.
The archers shoot a wave of arrows.
Several gladiators fall. Others come forward fast, fighting hand to hand.
Maximus runs through the stable, picks up an unlit torch, lights it, and runs down a flight of steps into an underground passageway. A suit of armor and sword have been placed in the corner at the foot of the steps. He picks them up and moves on into the dark passage.
On the upper floors of the Compound, soldiers are climbing the stairs towards Proximo’s room.
Proximo takes out the wooden rudius sword, the emblem of his freedom given him by Marcus Aurelius.
The soldiers burst into his room, raise their swords behind his back.
PROXIMO
(gently, stoic)
Shadows and dust.
The soldiers give him a soldier’s death, driving their swords down into his body.
In the courtyard, the fighting is at its peak. Three arrows rip into Hagen’s back, two more enter his chest, as a soldier drives a sword into him.
Maximus emerges from the rear of the Compound into a woods. The sounds of the NIGHT.
He sees a man sitting on a horse under a tree in the distance.
He makes a whistling call.
CICERO
(calling out)
Maximus!
The horse bolts and Cicero is suddenly swinging, being hanged from the tree. Maximus runs to him, and lifts him up, trying to save him.
CICERO
(gasping)
Maximus, I’m sorry --
Three arrows slam into Cicero’s chest.
MAXIMUS
No!
Archers appear all around, above on the parapets, with their crossbows pointed down at him.
70 EXT. IMPERIAL BALCONY. NIGHT.
Waves of white-gray pigeons rise against the early morning sky. The sound of their FLAPPING WINGS.
PULL BACK TO REVEAL Commodus, standing on the balcony, watching the sunrise.
COMMODUS
It’s done.
He turns. Quintus is standing behind him.
COMMODUS (cont’d)
And what of my nephew?
And what of his mother?
Shall they share her lover’s fate? Or shall I be merciful?
(savoring it)
Commodus the Merciful.
He walks inside, where Lucilla is sitting upright, motionless, deathly pale.
COMMODUS (cont’d)
(to Quintus)
Lucius will stay with me now.
(glancing at Lucilla)
And if she ever so much as looks at me in a manner that displeases me, he will die. If she decides to be noble, and take her own life, he will die.
(to Lucilla)
And as for you. You will love me, as I’ve loved you. You will provide me with an heir, of pure blood, so that Commodus and his progeny will rule for a thousand years.
(pauses)
Am I not merciful?
He leans very close to Lucilla. He tries to kiss her, but she averts her face. He leans back and, taking hold of her chin, he roughly pulls her so she is facing him again. He leans close to her again.
COMMODUS (cont’d)
(screaming into her expressionless face)
AM I NOT MERCIFUL!?
CLOSE ON her expression, wooden, defeated, yet still defiant.
71 INT. COLOSSEUM. DAY.
Trumpets blare as the crowd chants.
CROWD
Maximus!
Maximus!
Maximus!
Maximus!
In a room beneath the arena floor Maximus stands in chains, his arms manacled and pulled up. His head is sagging.
The gates to this platform open, and Commodus enters. He walks forward and stands opposite Maximus, close.
COMMODUS
(whispering, imitating the distant,
muted chant of the crowd)
Maximus!
Maximus!
Maximus!
(to Maximus)
They call for you.
The General who became a slave. The slave who became a gladiator. The gladiator who defied an Emperor. Striking story.
(speaking to ‘both’ audiences)
Now the people want to know how the story ends. Only a famous death will do. What would be more glorious than to challenge the Emperor himself in the great arena.
MAXIMUS
You would fight me?
COMMODUS
Why not? Do you think I’m afraid?
MAXIMUS
I think you’ve been afraid … all … your … life.
COMMODUS
Unlike Maximus the Invincible, who knows no fear?
MAXIMUS
(laughs softly)
I once knew a man who said death smiles at us all. All a man can do is smile back.
COMMODUS
I wonder. Did your friend smile at his own death?
MAXIMUS
You must know. It was your father.
COMMODUS
You loved my father, I know. Well, so did I. That makes us brothers, doesn’t it now.
Commodus embraces him as a brother.
COMMODUS (cont’d)
Smile for me now, brother!
Commodus stabs him in the side, deep, and quickly kisses him on the neck.
Commodus steps back.
COMMODUS
(to Quintus)
Strap on his armor. Conceal the wound.
The platform starts rising. They are being lifted up to the floor of the arena. Commodus looks up, light streaming on his face.
72 EXT. ARENA FLOOR. DAY.
LONG ON a large square hole in the sand of the center of the arena floor. On the platform slowly rises up into it, a perimeter of soldiers, in testudo formation, are kneeling in a square ring around Maximus and Commodus. The platform comes to rest.
Sound of the SHOUTS of the crowd.
The soldiers stand and step back to form a large ring around Maximus, Commodus, and Quintus.
Commodus accepts a sword from Quintus.
Maximus is leaning forward slightly. Quintus approaches him, then throws a sword to the ground in front of him.
He kneels, staggering a little, picks up a handful of the arena sand, and rubs it between his hands.
He picks up the sword and stands, with effort.
Commodus hurls himself at Maximus. Their swords come together. Maximus is pushed back, almost losing his balance. He lifts the sword and fends off Commodus again. Commodus lunges again. Maximus turns round and catches Commodus’ leg behind his own, throwing him to the ground. Comodus loses hold of his sword. He stands quickly.
Maximus tosses his own sword to the ground.
He sees his villa and the wall. He is gliding towards it over a field of grain.
COMMODUS
(to Quintus)
Quintus, sword! Give me your sword!
Quintus makes no move.
COMMODUS
(to the soldiers)
Sword! Give me a sword!
Several soldiers begin drawing their swords.
QUINTUS
(to the soldiers)
Sheathe your swords!
Sheathe your swords!
Maximus sees the door in the villa wall. He is approaching it.
Commodus pulls back the sleeve of his tunic and draws out a long knife strapped to his forearm.
Maximus returns to himself at the last moment as Commodus lunges at him, moving to slash down into Maximus’ chest. He dodges away. Commodus attacks again, and Maximus seizes him and surges forward with unexpected force, punching him in the gut, then an elbow to the face, and again, throwing him back.
Commodus is standing, stunned from the punches, and lunges again, this time with less force and speed, his knife-arm extended. Maximus grabs the extended arm at the shoulder, his other hand clamped now on Commodus’ other wrist. Maximus slowly brings the wrist back toward Commodus’ own chest. Commodus pummels Maximus with his free arm, bringing down blows on his shoulder and side. The knife gradually descends … slowly … into and through Commodus’ neck, and down into his chest.
Commodus dies.
Maximus is swaying on his feet, unable to move.
He sees his villa wall again, and the door. He reaches forward and pushes it open. He can see inside, and smiles. His wife and son are coming towards him.
QUINTUS
Maximus!
Maximus!
Maximus comes back again.
MAXIMUS
(with effort)
Quintus. Free my men. Senator Gracchus is to be reinstated. There was a dream that was Rome. It shall be realized. These are the wishes of Marcus Aurelius.
QUINTUS
(to guards)
Free the prisoners. Go!
Maximus falls.
Lucilla comes out onto the arena floor. She rushes across to Maximus.
LUCILLA
Maximus!
Maximus 'returns' again, and looks up at her.
MAXIMUS
Lucius is safe.
She nods. A distant look enters his eyes.
LUCILLA
(voice breaking)
Go to them.
His eyes hold hers for a moment longer, then let go. His head falls to one side.
Maximus dies.
He is inside the villa walls, crossing the fields towards the buildings, his hand brushing over the grain. His son is running towards him along the long avenue. Maximus’ wife is standing in the distance, on the hillside. The tableau mirrors the scene in which they were killed.
Lucilla weeps, and closes his eyes.
LUCILLA
(gently)
You’re home.
She gathers herself, and stands. She turns round and faces the onlookers.
LUCILLA
Is Rome worth one good man’s life? We believed it once.
(to Gracchus)
Make us believe it again.
(turning round)
He was a soldier of Rome! Honor him.
Gracchus walks forward and stands over Maximus’ body.
GRACCHUS
Who will help me carry him?
Soldiers and gladiators come forward, stooping to lift him up.
LONG ON Maximus’ body as they raise it up, and start walking slowly across the arena floor.
Lucilla follows behind, as the image FADES TO DARK.
73 EXT. ARENA. DAY.
CLOSE ON a hand digging in the sand.
Juba is holding Maximus’ small satchel. He takes out the figurines, and lets them rest a moment in his palm.
He buries the figurines in the sand.
JUBA
Now we’re free! I will see you again. But not yet. Not yet.
He smiles.
PULL BACK TO REVEAL Juba kneeling in the arena. Alone.
He stands and pulls his cloak up over his shoulder, as he walks towards the arena door, a free man.
PULL UP through the awning of the Colosseum, the sun setting over the seven hills of Rome…
… CREDITS …
“For our friend,
Oliver Reed.”
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
