Analyzing Evil: Commodus From Gladiator

Welcome everyone to the forty-sixth episode of Analyzing Evil! Our feature villain for this video is Commodus from Gladiator. I hope you enjoy, and thanks for watching. If you have any feedback or questions feel free to let me know below!
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#Commodus #Gladiator #JoaquinPhoenix

[@TheVileEye]

Sorry all I had to delete the previous video to fix some issues. Apologies everyone but his video is unfortunately blocked in several countries right now due to copyright issues but those issues should be resolved within a few days.

[@recreantjournals6723]

Hey love the channel can you do a video on Joe from You ?

[@ncsquatch2514]

Lol i wasn't finished watching it when it came down I was so confused

[@deletdis6173]

Stansfield from Leon: The Professional. >:3

[@jonathanperry8331]

Hey I thought of a good one! Tupac Shakur's character from the movie "juice". That would be epic

[@asdfasfasdfful]

Really wish Maximus would’ve just killed this guy at the beginning and became emperor himself , why would anyone EVER waste energy caring about whether people love him or not

[@StellaAdler_]

One of THE BEST villains & supporting role of all time. Not only was Russel Crowe phenomenal, but Joaquin as well, which is incredibly rare. This movie is the only one that made me feel angry, sad, hopeful, shocked, scared. There’s just no other film like it & the performances by all were outstanding.

[@shadowking9739]

My favorite Commodus moment was when he was telling the "busy little bee" story to Lucius while maintaining eye contact with Lucilla, letting her know that he's aware of her treachery and is willing to do anything to hurt her. Just a chilling scene.

[@Fox1223]

It vexed him... he’s terribly vexed.

[@pxu156]

AM I NOT MERCIFUL!!!

[@ianashby6294]

He was amazing in it

[@ianashby6294]

Marcus arrilios is dead maximus we mortals are but shadows and dust

[@chrisricks6363]

I shall bathe in their blood

[@st4ne4rmthevill63]

Phoenix was so good in this role that I despised him in everything I saw for years. It wasn't until Joker that I was able to forgive him for how dirty he did Maximus. That's the sign of a good villain & actor.

[@virginialopez6133]

Watch we own the night with mark walburg . U will forgive him In that movie

[@sharonpopolow6874]

It sometimes takes a better actor to make you despise a character than to love him or her. When someone portrays a character that makes you just want to hit him at every sentence they say or sit at the edge of your seat waiting for them to die or fail miserably, that's persuasive acting.

[@Gadget-Walkmen]

nah I loved him even being evil as all hell in this role. It's just so amazing!

[@need-to-know-]

I had to remind myself that it’s just a movie and Joaquin isn’t really doing this stuff.

[@st4ne4rmthevill63]

@@virginialopez6133 I don't have a problem with Walburg. Phoenix *was* Commodus to me for years. There was no distinction between actor & role. It was "bruh you did not have to do Maximus like that"....even when I watched him in Her with Scarjo.

[@haha-pw7nv]

when he screamed "AM I NOT MERCIFUL?" it was off the cuff. the reaction of the actress playing his sister was genuine shock

[@EzRida04]

Connie Nielsen

[@cptsteele91]

@@EzRida04 gesundheit

[@kyesanders3209]

Bruh how many comments are people going to make like this? 😂 Oh yeah and in that one scene he ACTUALLY killed that guy so everyone's reaction to that scene was actually genuine 🙄

[@mp9313]

@@kyesanders3209it really is impossible to believe that actors can actually act out human emotions 😢

[@StellaAdler_]

I thought I knew everything about this movie cuz I bought the DVD set & watched all material I could find about it. I didn’t know this, thank u.

[@dylanrivera2244]

Keep in mind, the real life Commodus was a very sick and messed up individual, who is known as one of Romes worst emperors. And in case your wondering how he died, after a failed poising attempt, the conspirators had his favorite wrestler strangle him in his own bath.

[@tfpradgirl9537]

I don't know why, but the fact he was killed whole taking a bath, is really funny.

[@dylanrivera2244]

@@tfpradgirl9537 yeah, I can only imagine the look on his face when his favorite wrestler was crushing his windpipe, in his bath, while he was naked. I’d almost pay to see that.

[@Thomas20Smith]

Kinda like Jean-Paul Marat(of the French Revolution) except he was stabbed by a stranger claiming to have important information

[@sethiddings7293]

I believe it was The Undertaker

[@lovabletrash8341]

@@sethiddings7293 💀💀💀💀THIS COMMENT

[@WoddCar]

Joaquin Phoenix always plays the best roles, and his acting is just so good for the movies he is in

[@skulltula1352]

Couldn't agree more, definitely one of my favorite actors.

[@kinglouie97luda]

the true artist in the joker was the director but only because of phoenix's performance. when he goes to robert deniros show, we all subconciously want him to kill robert deniro... we would be angry if that scene ended and he had not. most of us dont realize it or wont admit it when we do. because in that moment we are subversed in the mind of the joker because of the directors use of forced perspective and story telling, yet robert deniro isnt a "bad guy" in the movie, but we all want him dead. if you dont believe me, take it from Quentin tarantino

[@grasshopper-ln9us]

I thought he did excellent in the film "We Own the Night" as well as this one

[@WoddCar]

@ROFOLOFLOLO your welcome

[@straburyred]

This is the role that made me take notice of Joaquin Phoenix! He was born to play Commodus

[@AtlasBlizzard]

"A child not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth." I feel that proverb describes Commodus to a tee. He's a despicable character, but his father's lack of love for him was horrible too.

[@SleepyGibbon]

I haven't watched Gladiator in a while so I can't say for the movie whether it lines up, but in reality his father was actually pretty loving. Marcus Aurelius, although likely sometimes a little rough due to his mostly stoic philosophy, really did love Commodus, even to the point of refusing to see the bad in him. He wanted the best for his son, even though that best was Marcus' best and not Commodus'. Pretty typical case of a kid just not wanting what their parent wants for them, but elevated to the level of emperor (because that'll never have bad consequences lol)

[@Ralphie750]

Interesting take, but was it that he 'refused to see the bas in his son'? I wonder if rather than that, it was a sort of self-preservation as one could conceivably say Commodus' faults would be a reflection of Aurelius' faults as a parent? After all, he may well have been a good and loving parent, but how much time can the most powerful man in the world really spare for his child? Surely not enough for that love and affection to impront on that child, spending years away at a time can't be said to have had no ill effect on Commodus? (Not excusing Commodus' maliciousness, but monsters are not born of affection)

[@SleepyGibbon]

@Ralphie750 I mean yeah it could be that, but just from what I know of him and his philosophy I feel that were it anyone other than his family, Marcus would've just cut them out. Same sorta thing happened with his wife too I think. It's probably Stoicism's biggest fault in my opinion, just from the time I've spent studying and applying it. You struggle to work out how much is too much emotion and how little is too little. It's a slippery slope into apathy sometimes. I think Marcus may just not have cared by the time of his death. His time as emperor was trouble enough on it's own.

[@LukeTube_777]

We really have no idea whether or not Commodus was mistreated or unloved by his father. In my opinion, I highly doubt it. He was groomed to be an emperor from a young age, I'm sure his Dad was tough on him and stoic in his teachings. However, Aurelius must have had a blind spot in regard to his son. There must have been at least an inkling that he would not be a good emperor, yet he had no hesitation in making him emperor. 22:06

[@masterexploder9668]

Historical Aurelius did what he could, but managing whole empire, fighting rebellions or waging defensive Marcomannic war probably didn't leave too much time for him to raise his son. Then again he did take Commodus with him on campaigns and did his best to show him the ropes. Aurelius was in unique situation as previous emperors (Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian, Antoninus Pius) didn't have their own heirs, so they had to adopt. Actually Hadrian adopted Pius only if he in turn adopted Aurelius and Lucius Verus so two future co-emperors. Due to how Roman emperorship was structured, trying to set aside a biological heir for adoptive one was a sure recipe for a civil war. Commodus could be a dangerous rival to any new emperor and he would be eliminated, so I am guessing that Aurelius just didn't want his son to be murdered. Now when it comes to Commodus, he was clearly popular among lower classes of society, but pissed off influential nobility and senators. It didn't suit the rank of his office to fight as a gladiator and he did like to kill people with a club. His own family (sister) did conspire to kill him, which obviously didn't improve his mental health. Usually bad emperors died quickly, but Commodus managed to somehow survive 12 years, so he must have done something right. And he didn't start external wars, so he also got that going for him.

[@zer1c-c2p]

Joaquin Phoenix always kills his roles, excited to see him as Napoleon Bonaparte in Kitbag, which is being directed by Ridley Scott (who also directed Gladiator)

[@venicec3310]

Damn thats a perfect role for him too

[@justinhunt4767]

Great actor

[@goodcatfilms4276]

No way !!

[@marctitus5874]

I'm looking forward to Kitbag. This comment is actually the first I heard of it and I just looked it up. I love these inspired by history stories, though they get a lot of hate by history buffs. These multimillion dollar projects entertain and generate revenue, not educate. They have led many to learn about history if I had to guess, though.

[@haroldbrown893]

He didn't want to do this movie at 1st

[@hideousruin]

Whatever the historical accuracy, those sets are so beautiful and detailed it almost hurts. The costumes are awe inspiring as well.

[@MyH3ntaiGirl]

No where near the level of HBO Rome though

[@hideousruin]

@@MyH3ntaiGirl Hmmm. It's been a long time. I'll have to go back and check it out. If nothing else it will be nice to see more use of miniatures and mat paintings and other more traditional methods of making a huge world come alive on screen.

[@MyH3ntaiGirl]

@@hideousruin it look gritty and real, like a real city Gladiator ones just look a bit too grand if you get what i mean, it look dark but still too marble-ish

[@Ivy94F]

@@MyH3ntaiGirl Fair point. It was so good, that it apparently cost them a fortune. Pre GOT, of course. I miss that show, it was sooo good.

[@Satellite_Of_Love]

I love the music as well. "Now We Are Free" hits me emotionally every time I hear it.

[@uncabob214]

Worth noting is that real Gladiators were not butchered as they are in the film. A Gladiator had a fair number of similarities to a pro wrestler from the more bloody times; they were deeply skilled professionals who did a dangerous and bodily damaging job to provide a spectacle of staged violence and blood. They where costly investments, not something cheaply thrown away. And although the film largely portrays all gladiators as death fodder in that older, less accurate view, if we take the view that this was not the norm but rather a change brought on by Commodus, it fits in well with his character. That he would take a dangerous but controlled sport and turn it into a murder fest, all to gain the love of the crowd for the escalated spectacle of it.

[@Satellite_Of_Love]

If anything was a death sentence as a profession in Rome, it wasn't being a gladiator, it was working the mines. A gladius through the gut would have been a painful death, but a faster one than years of hard labor, unsafe working conditions, cruel masters and no hope of manumission. Even gladiators could potentially earn their freedom.

[@leonidus224]

I was about to post this same thing about gladiators. Thank you much for doing so my fellow history buff!

[@15blackshirt]

The series Spartacus gives a better understanding in to the lives of gladiators

[@nalublackwater9729]

True, but what made Commodus infamous was that during his reign, gladiators were indeed butchered, just because he deemed it fun. He also set up one to one combats with gladiators where the fighter had been drugged so Commodus would always win. Quite ironic that it was his lover the one who strangled him while Commodus took a bath.

[@mikshinee87]

@@nalublackwater9729 It wasn't a coincidence at all.

[@matthewhancox4389]

I love villains that mirror the hero. Maximus is a humble man who inspires love in nearly every character in the film, from his emperor, to his master, to the men under his command. Commadus wants to be loved but fails to inspire it. He tries to gain the love of the people with mindless entertainment, and eventually tries to force that love when he can’t earn it. The hero given power he didn’t ask for, And the villain who wants the power he can not have. The moral of the story; hug your kids.

[@gh9111]

Joaquin should have absolutely won the oscar for best supporting actor. Hands down.

[@IAMBENNYBLANCO.]

Yup.... he should've won.

[@mattpope1746]

Excellent analysis of a compelling villain. Early in the film, Commodus tells Marcus Aurelius that he once read a list of virtues his father had written to him and knew that he possessed none of them. He then recites the virtues he lacks as wisdom, justice, fortitude and temperance. In real life, Marcus Aurelius was a Stoic and those four are the cardinal virtues of Stoicism.

[@insuchaway]

Hey man, he had courage! Perhaps..not on the battlefield. But there are many forms of courage!

[@Tiago-rz2hr]

Catholic theology also got those 4 cardinal virtues in the "7 capital virtues" (the 3 remaining virtues are called theological virtues). Pretty cool to see Aurelius influence there

[@happygucci5094]

But he wasn't just evil- Joaquin' characterization was brilliant- you saw the deep wounding by his father and how that unmendable wound shaped and molded his personality. There was a wretched sadness and childish yearning for love. Joaquin Phoenix was brilliant.

[@margaridarosa5019]

Os true

[@kingthom8172]

Joaquin was 26....crazy! I don't think nobody could've killed that role more than him.

[@Dragons_Armory]

Joaquin Phoenix really got me to hate his character, holy shit the combination of cowardice as well as abuse with absolute power pretty much reached out of the screen and got me to hate him

[@straburyred]

And those features definitely look like they'd be at home on ancient currency.

[@osmanyousif7849]

He was basically King Claudius throughout the film. Gladiator is basically the new take on Hamlet.

[@RCAvhstape]

Not to mention his incestuous nature and treatment of his sister and nephew. Some villains can be charismatic and be admired a bit, Tony Soprano or even Darth Vader, but guys like Gladiator version of Commodus have no redeeming features, they just utterly make your skin crawl whenever they are on screen.

[@arrow1414]

I have wondered if King Joffery in "Game of Thrones" was modeled after Phoenix's Commodus?

[@icouldntthinkofaname379]

@@arrow1414 Joffrey debuted in the books in 1996, Gladiator game out in 2000.

[@straburyred]

I think Commodus is more like a serpent than a worm, striking when one least expects it.

[@VonJay]

serpents strike when one least expects it?

[@publiopaolacci495]

@@VonJay yeah cause they’re usually hidden

[@VonJay]

@@publiopaolacci495"easily hidden." a Serpent is a very large snake. And I don't think people would least expect a strike from a snake in general.

[@publiopaolacci495]

@@VonJay i said usually as in they usually hide in tall grass. I assume a lot of people in less civilized/urban countries are quite worried about snake attacks?

[@calebfairchild8745]

@@publiopaolacci495 I mean you're correct, they tend to hide in tall grass and strike fast and efficiently before they prey would even know

[@russian_knight]

I suggest analyzing the evil of Percy, from the green mile. He's absolutely despicable and quite pathetic, at the end of it all and is a very good villain, or the closest thing to it at least

[@gabedominguez360]

I agree with you that would be awesome

[@happygucci5094]

Absolutely 💯

[@JadeDelphi]

for sure! What a horrible character! That's one I have a hard time separating from the actor -- brilliantly written and performed.

[@jingitaxias8461]

Yeah but unlike Joaquin, the real life actor is a giant piece of shit.

[@mrmojomajestic8317]

Good call

[@areelreaction]

That tongue flick of Phoenix during the sport has been iconic since. The simple act of tongue flick ing at men being dismemebered tells a lot about Commodos' character and I don't think it's something Ridley Scott even told Pheonix to do.

[@valmacclinchy]

Joaquin Phoenix improves often. He completely disappears into each character.

[@T.T.Top.This1]

I can’t remember where I heard it, but someone once talked about how a great villain is someone that makes you uncomfortable to watch. They make you feel like something terrible will happen at any moment and are also (typically) unpredictable in nature. I felt uncomfortable the entire time Commodus was on screen and felt fear for everyone around him, even though I knew he was a weak coward, his manipulation and intimidation tactics were quite affective to me as an audience member. Not knowing what kind of creature he would evolve into next sent shivers down my spine and still does to this day. Joaquin absolutely killed this role

[@mr.l5783]

I don’t know about ya’ll but the one thing I love about these videos is studying and gaining a better understanding of the meaning of evil and how it applies to our personal lives. Obviously the concept is evil is a very murky one and can even been seen has subjective. However, the more evil we see and witness the closer we get to understanding its nature. Theres just something so fascinating about it.

[@morten1]

Evil is a word we invented, and it's within humanity

[@bornimusic]

I feel exactly the same way

[@Argos-xb8ek]

My favorite scene is when Commidus looks down at his sleeping nephew and said "You sleep well because you are loved"

[@LibraryofSofiyah]

Weird. That was also a line repeatedly said from Pharaoh to his son in the film Exodus. Wonder if it was lifted from Gladiator.

[@speedracer2008]

@@LibraryofSofiyah Possibly. Same director.

[@AprilEM-vs8fg]

​@@LibraryofSofiyah I wondered where I'd heard it before! Thanks!

[@jadacampbell9331]

And now Lucius has to fight

[@DeidreL9]

I absolutely adored Joaquin in this film. No one else has the exact presence he has, the exact way of talking and presenting himself. It struck me that only Oliver Reed as a young man could have done the role this kind of justice. There’s a softness to Joaquin that makes you feel his pain. Commodus was frightening, but he was very human, and l really cried for him even while I was dreading what he’d do. Joaquin and Russell Crowe are brilliant together.

[@drew9597]

I love these videos. I've been subscribed for the majority of the analyzing evil series, and I've enjoyed every single one. Not only do I listen to someone that has more passion and knowledge of movie/character analyzing than me, but I'm also watching movies that were never suggested to me that always are worth the time to watch. Thanks for the great content! Keep it up man!

[@CosmicPhilosopher]

Just make sure you return those video tapes.

[@Hollywood42081]

Huey Lewis sucks!!

[@drew9597]

@@Hollywood42081 You like Vile Eye and the Analyzing Evil series?

[@Hollywood42081]

@@drew9597 absolutely

[@drew9597]

@@Hollywood42081 oh...uhm.... I gotta return some video tapes...

[@ashlielove6513]

All time favorite of mine. He's evil in a way that's sad, disturbing, uncomfortable and completely relatable to someone who just wants someone to love them. This was the role that made me love Joaquin Phoenix, not Walk the Line or Joker. He needs to play more villains. In my eyes he was born for it. 🖤

[@straburyred]

I know what you mean. I finally took notice of Joaquin after "Gladiator."

[@happygucci5094]

I completely agree

[@grazielaalmeida8438]

For me too, gen Z knows him from Joker, but I watch him since I was 10. His pircing, ominous dangerous eyes with dark circles gave me nightmare in this movie.

[@ppvk2610]

Indeed as his emotional dialogue with his father before he killed him, tells his narrative perfectly

[@elizabethjordan5755]

​@@grazielaalmeida8438I love the subtle suspicious glare he gives Lucilla as she offers a tonic for his splitting headaches. It was brief, but spoke volumes about his mistrust and deep fears.

[@freeguy3751]

It's the sick relationship with his sister that was the most cruel part of Commodus. Other leaders have killed and murdered other men, but to mess with his sister like that, that's pure evil

[@shraviator]

I saw this as a kid and remember being so creeped out and frightened by this character. That primal feeling of disgust when you encounter someone unsavoury is what Joaquin Phoenix managed to bring out so expertly in this character.

[@fauxparr]

Maximum beating Comodus to a pulp with his bare hands is one of the most satisfying things I'e ever watched in a film. Then the slow knife whlie he stares him right in the eyes. Brilliant.

[@chasehedges6775]

💯💯💯💯. Best and most humiliating and satisfying death ever

[@electrominded8372]

There are so many layers to this masterful movie. I can rewatch it a hundred times.

[@Ruosteinenknight]

Interesting thing about roman emperors: lot the most succesful ones suffered from sort of infirmity or physical weakness, which Roman culture despised. Julius Caesar (who wasn't an emperor, but probably would've become one in due time) had his ministrokes, his successor Augustus was plagued by poor health for his entire life. Claudius was considered so badly handicapped that had he not been of noble birth he would've been executed and Marcus Aurelius was considered bookish and physically frail man. Yet those emperors like Commodus who are obsessed with their own physical prowess and masculinity or likes of Caligula who were groomed in martial matters of early age, were considered being disasterous rulers as time went on. Marcus Aurelius's adopted brother and co-emperor, Lucius Verus, was physically very fit and ideal of Roman manhood, but his contribution to parthian wars described as minimal at best and some biographers outright say that he neglected the whole war to keep up partying.

[@applesandgrapesfordinner4626]

That's an interesting observation

[@froglegstastebestsalted]

Here's one, Trajan, the proper warrior despot. Hadrian by extension.

[@lucianraphael9527]

@@froglegstastebestsaltedConstantine the great too, Aurelian, dicoletician, etc

[@adamcuneo7189]

I like how Maximus became Emperor in way, even though he was chained, the Roman people saw that he was a real leader who had mercy unlike Commodus who may have been sitting on the throne, but didn't have the qualities of a leader. It reminds me of the quote "leadership is through action, not position" by Donald McGannon.

[@chasehedges6775]

Well put and well said.

[@chasehedges6775]

“Today I saw a slave become more powerful than the Emperor of Rome.” - Lucilla.

[@jadacampbell9331]

Dt

[@huldrrrr9486]

As despicable as a character he was, I really couldn't help but pity him. Great villain

[@siriusfox195]

It's amazing how many different types of characters Joaquin Phoenix can play.

[@codybentley284]

I 100% agree… I can’t think of a single role that would make me go “Nah, Joaquin Phoenix won’t fit the part here.” Like a Swiss Army Actor that fills any role he is given like he trained his life just for that role. Big fan 👍

[@j.1759]

@StuntmanGoat not every actor/actress

[@vasilstanev4234]

Poor child in a man's body. He never had one friend, even when he got absolute power. Not even his father, not even his sister. Never got an ounce of love. The poor pauper, the poor sod.

[@joebrat6809]

To anyone who ever doubted Phoenix could play The Joker clearly haven't seen "Gladiator". THIS is the role that made me convinced he could be the perfect Joker. Along with "The Joker" (Dark Knight), Emperor Palpatine ("Star Wars"), and Kanan ("Power") this guy is probably the most evil villain in any work of fiction.

[@Vintage-28]

"AM I NOT MERCIFUL!" He deserved all the Oscar's for this role...

[@valmacclinchy]

He really did. Joker should've been his fourth Oscar. He was absolutely brilliant in so many movies. He completely disappears into every character he plays.

[@chasehedges6775]

CHILLS!

[@Yang-ob4lk]

He's evil for sure, but his machinations almost worked. As he said in the movie "But i have other virtues, father. Ambition, that can be a virtue when it drives us to excel. Resourcefulness. Courage. Perhaps not on the battlefield but there are many forms of courage." And I belive he does have a certain courage. I mean, he DOES meet Maximus in the arena, even though he's cheating, he still puts his life on the line there. Definitely a powerful play and if he had killed Maximus there, all his plans would have worked

[@Ikaros23]

I don’t think so. The crowd forgets this « episode» like a show on netflix and is never satisfied. The senators hates him, and he knows nothing of the world or wars. Most likely all the games+ corruption and narcissism would ruin the state, the same way it did to Nero and Calligula. Narcissism always ends en failure and ruin

[@BigMikeMcBastard]

The historical Commodus believed he was the reincarnation of Hercules. He would involve himself in rigged gladiatorial games, dressed in secutor regalia. His opponents always submitted to him though, so it wasn't really a risk like in the film. But yeah, historically it was less courage and more delusion/arrogance.

[@AxenfonKlatismrek]

Here are 2 possibilities where Scott could have made during filming it, which would also establish something about Commodus I read somewhere that REAL LIFE Commodus was a man, who engaged in Arena fights, but against old and crippled veterans. Kinda wasted potential here, like imagine scene where Gladiators are watching Commodus beat another one to death with sword, and when Maximus has chance of talking to him, he pulls off the helmet of dead cripple and says something like "This poor fellow's name was Evidius, veteran from Parthian war, father to Cicero, a hero from Germanic wars! Is this how you honor the people who fought and died in these wars? Marcus Aurelius wouldnt do this to his loyal subjects, but you do?!" And Commodus being like "I am the emperor! I am the Roman law! I can do whatever i want!". Like this would also show us things about Commodus: 1. Commodus is a coward, who rather cheats than engages in actual fight 2. People learn how terrible the Commodus actually is 3. It would give us another major reason why Maximus despises Commodus Or another thing i would say was missed opportunity, IRL, When Rome was in Flames, Commodus was busy renaming Rome as "Comodia" and Romans as "Comodians", and rename 12 months after his self given titles(Cant name all of them). I imagine the scene being like this: After Maximus wins against Tiger of Gaul, Rome is in fire, people are screaming, Lucilla searching for her son Verus, Gracchus sending his slaves to save Romans and to extinguish flames. When Lucilla returns, Commodus is like "What should be the name for January? Id say Commodus, because its the first in the year, what do you think Lucilla?" And Lucila is like "Commodus? Dont you see outside world? Rome is in flames! My son almost died from breathing smoke!" And Commodus Answers "This is Commodia now! Romans are past, Commodians are future!", meanwhile Proximo is saved by Maximus from flames, and gladiators along with Maximus volunteerly help the firefighters This would also be fit with establishing something about Commodus and surrounding 1. Commodus is neglectful ruler, who is there for his ego. 2. People dislike him even more considering Praetorians werent even sent to help(Forgot to mention his Praetorians dont do anything) 3. Maximus helps Rome more than Commodus does in his palace

[@kiwimangosurprise]

​@@AxenfonKlatismrek I like this a lot but the ending would have to be completely different. It'd be too obvious that commodus and maximus would eventually duke it in a coliseum. I mean it already is, but this just spits it right in your mouth In addition, commodus is an intelligent character who desired admiration. Someone with his intelligence would notice the immediate contradiction. Combatting cripples and elderly will only bring disapproval as it shows fear to combat a prime warrior

[@vincemelson9655]

Maximus had been waiting to kill Commodus and felt he gods/his ancestors were giving him the chance. So even thought commodus had the upperhand with the injury, maximus was determined

[@themountainsleeps]

You're actually laughing? You killed his son, you killed his wife, and you're laughing?

[@MrImastinker]

"I know! How 'bout another game, Senator?"

[@aaronmoore6275]

Is it me, or is it getting crazier out there?

[@quintinjansevanvuuren9638]

I did, and I'm tired of pretending I didn't.

[@michaelshields6326]

Àwwá22àáà

[@WobblesandBean]

"How bout another joke, Commadus?"

[@CyberS1renLucy]

I remember hating every inch of Commodus as a kid and it lasted for *years*. Years later, after countless rewatch I grew up enough to understood true brilancy of his play. Phoenix is an amazing actor. I admire him now! Just think how many vilians goes unnoticed, played the same boring way. He created masterpiece.

[@valmacclinchy]

If you haven't already, check out all Joaquin Phoenix's movies. He completely disappears into every single character.

[@jigsaw4253]

"You wrote to me once, listing the four chief virtues: Wisdom, justice, fortitude, and temperance. As I read the list, I knew I had none of them. But I have other virtues, father. Ambition. That can be a virtue when it drives one to excel. Resourcefulness, courage, perhaps not on the battlefield, but... there are many forms of courage. Devotion, to my family, and to you. But none of my virtues were on your list. Even then it was as if you didn't want me for your son."

[@valmacclinchy]

That speech made me feel so bad for him. You could feel how absolutely hurt and broken he was when he said it..

[@chasehedges6775]

@@valmacclinchy Jaoquins acting was FANTASTIC in that scene

[@valmacclinchy]

@@chasehedges6775 Absolutely 💯

[@tochiRTA]

Incredible movie

[@RDog4484]

He was so good in this role, it changed the way I view him in other roles for years.

[@RoaringMind]

Even though he’s a somewhat satirical character, I believe Count Olaf from Netflix’s A Series of Unfortunate Events is worthy of exploration.

[@PlaguedByEarth]

He's definitely worth exploring. That portrayal managed to be hilarious, pitiable but also horrifyingly dangerous. That is a combination that is extremely difficult to pull off.

[@exeledusprince9165]

YES.

[@joshwhite5407]

Heck yeah! Bump!

[@joevenespineli6389]

He did redeem himself in that series somewhat.

[@bababooey5402]

​@@joevenespineli6389 I think Niel's version is unfair in this regard, as while Jim Carrey's version only did the first 3 books, Netflix did all 13 books.

[@youaretearingmeapartlisa7253]

i love the amount of eyebags in this movie. its perfect

[@letsgetlucky_]

I love these intros where there is silence before we hear your voice just as the character is speaking

[@maximvs272]

this one was so well done lmao

[@joeboyko8013]

The philosophical insights of the real life Marcus Aurelius are some of the best life lessons a person could learn outside of the eastern religions and philosophy.

[@VonJay]

Meditations is one of my all time favorite books. What amazed me was that this was coming from a conqueror.

[@Firguy_the_Foot_Fetishist]

Was the title of 'Aurelius' ascribed to him after his death? I'm sure he wouldn't call himself that.

[@joeboyko8013]

@@Firguy_the_Foot_Fetishist I don't know. Does it really matter?

[@Firguy_the_Foot_Fetishist]

@@joeboyko8013 Sure. If he was calling himself "Marcus Aurelius", the golden king, that would impart a lack of humility on his part so I would guess that name was given to him centuries after his death.

[@joeboyko8013]

@@Firguy_the_Foot_Fetishist Okay... And?

[@Mosca_Tube]

even watching this movie as a young kid I knew Commodus was the bad guy, but I still couldn't help but empathize with him and his story. Joaquin is just a phenomenal actor.

[@keith3915]

Honestly, living a life without respect from his father, and accurately pointing out to him that he didn't care to see any his existing virtues, I feel for the guy. I'd be pissed too.

[@samrizzardi2213]

In my headcanon, Gladiator takes place in an alternate timeline where the Roman Empire is dissolved and replaced with a new Republic after the death of Commodus, thus setting in motion the events of Blade Runner and Alien centuries later.

[@j.1759]

that's probably canon actually

[@skoomaaddict1010]

Wait. So is Blade Runner before or after Alien? And where does the Predator franchise fit in the timeline?

[@samrizzardi2213]

@@skoomaaddict1010 Blade Runner takes place in 2019, Alien in 2122.

[@skoomaaddict1010]

@@samrizzardi2213 well if the Roman Republic was restored in this timeline, then wouldn't it be reasonable to say they go with a different calendar from the Gregorian?

[@samrizzardi2213]

@@skoomaaddict1010 Maybe.

[@Papertoiletx]

This movie single-handedly made me a history nerd. Such an OG movie it brings back so many great memories.

[@karenstrong6734]

Yeah I love this movie and Amadeus both historically inaccurate movies. But they don’t need to be historically correct in order for it to be good it’s just ridiculous in my opinion.

[@chasehedges6775]

@@karenstrong6734👍👍👍

[@maximvs272]

i was named max after this film and to this day i love it and i love roman history

[@Teaniinja]

Yay this is the one I have requested the most. His character is so psychologically interesting.

[@dang_oner]

I love when Russell Crowe stabbed him in the end...couldn't have happened to a better guy

[@DvornyashkaDiaries]

To be honest dark circles around eyes are not always from the lack of sleep. Sometimes you just look this way.

[@koifish8416]

I can testify to this, at least dark circles are kinda in style now. Back to Commodus though, I think it’s just character design. You can take it as him having insomnia because of paranoia, or you can take it as the director trying to make him look creepier and more insane.

[@K.I.A22]

I hate people with such features.

[@jayleno1222]

@@K.I.A22 wtf why?

[@K.I.A22]

@@jayleno1222 i can't hate people cause of their looks now???

[@jayleno1222]

@@K.I.A22 Dude… Even if you did, why hate somebody for something as minimal as dark circles. Did you have a “sneaky” uncle who always looked tired or something?

[@MorroWolf]

Can't help but see a ton of parallels between commodus and the wacko running for president right now.

[@TheOblake2]

Joaquin's performance was so brilliant that i actually felt sorry and sympathised with comadas in parts, damn, i also think that his sister was the only one to show him the kind of love he wanted from a father or mother and he never got that from them

[@johnmillholland6550]

Joaquin Phoenix really looks and acts like Jonathan Rhys Meyers in the Tudors - another good subject to analyze.

[@KenyaTheMighty]

I remember hating Phoenix for a real good while before watching him as Johnny Cash in "Walk The Line". He nailed the Gladiator role perfectly and is definitely one of the most prominent actors in this era.

[@aphylorne3021]

I really can't believe the Joker and Commodus are played by the same guy

[@straburyred]

I know.

[@in4mus85]

🤦🏾‍♂️

[@eliasvasquez7322]

Don’t forget his role in the romantic comedy "Her"............

[@rhiegel83]

I have only recently found this channel and have watched all of these some multiple times. Your content is exceptional keep up the great work.

[@Hannibalian]

There aren't many actors who can make you want a villain to just die, however, he nailed it in the coffin. No pun intended.

[@jamisonreynolds9949]

I didn’t even realize that was Joaquin Phoenix until now. Holy shit is this guy talented.

[@rkmugen]

What injustice his character did to Maximus is overshadowed only by the fact he didn't win an Oscar for his performance in this timeless masterpiece of a film.

[@BloodGuyReviews]

Great video as always Vile Eye!!! I always like your historical ones, real or film versions. Whenever I think of the word ‘Evil’ or ‘Villain’, I think of Laurence Olivier as Richard III, idk if you ever thought about that as an episode

[@alejandrogonzales7022]

The first time I watched the scene where joaquin Phoenix screams "Am I not merciful" I trembled. I think I was 16 or 17 when I saw this movie in the theaters. I've been a fan of his ever since.

[@valmacclinchy]

That was completely improvised. Joaquin is absolutely brilliant.

[@weirdguy4948]

I love when evil and flaw are combined to make a character, evil tends to take form exactly in this way in real life

[@uomodonore245]

I believe I read somewhere that the real life Marcus Aurelius was no fan of gladiatorial contests.

[@jacksonmcvey2085]

David from Prometheus and Alien: Covenant I think would be a fascinating villain to study

[@straburyred]

While we're on the subject of Michael Fassbender, I'd love to see an analysis of Azazeal from BBC's "Hex."

[@BillykOTW]

I like the way you think

[@in4mus85]

David is literally the only good thing about those films

[@VonJay]

@@in4mus85 I always thought he was the main character. Besides having the best scenes (some of my favorite in film history, him watching LOA, dying his hair and playing basketball on a bike) He had the most screen time so even before covenant came out I had a feeling he'd be the catalyst to the ideas presented in Prometheus. In Prometheus God, his creation man, and an android walk the same plain. But for some reason God doesn't like Man's creation. In covenant, Man, Android walk the same plain, and what does the Android choose to create? A monster. Scott's arguments seems to be that Man is creating (Robots) something as grotesque as the facehugger. I thought it was a masterpiece, yet, I can't revisit those films.

[@samrizzardi2213]

Hell yes. He's basically a super strong genius who struggles to hold back his utter contempt for those around him. No wonder he totally snapped.

[@normadesmond6017]

for me, this was the best acting in the movie.

[@craigs9869]

Another excellent discussion and production. Thank you for the extra link on Commodus' life.

[@AmigoAmpz]

My favorite performance of any any actor or character period

[@Bojack727]

The Director, Ridley Scott, says (in the audio commentary) that Commodus genuinely loved his nephew Lucius, but this too became twisted by growing paranoia following Maximus' growing popularity.

[@chasehedges6775]

Sadly, I think even the kid realized how evil his uncle was.

[@dynahvelvixin.8615]

​@@chasehedges6775Oh yes he realised that when his uncle threatened his mother.

[@EddyTheMartian]

Commodus was such a great villain, really carried the film for me and Phoenix kills it. Great pick, and great video as always! There’s so much detail here I didn’t expect. I’d love an analysis of some other not as popular characters, for example Connie Nikas from Good Time. One of my personal favorite movies.

[@madrazz8888]

I need to watch this movie again. Joaquin is brilliant. I discovered him through Gladiator. His face at 6:55 , that small shot where he looks sideways, you can see the hatred in his eyes and how tired he is from the burden. Amazing. I always loved Commodus as a villain, even though I tend to prefer more mature ones. Strange though, I don't recognize some scenes in this and I know this movie by heart.

[@gaiusbaltar8915]

Commodus is such a great villain because we can understand where he's coming from. Commodus does evil things, but not because he desires the evilness of them. It's just that he does not know how to act in a manner that's good. His goal is to be loved. That is the wound he has, he wants to be loved - by his father, by his people, by a lover. That is what he is *aiming* at. But you cannot achieve that. You can not make someone love you. Being loved something that happens by proxy, as we can see with Maximus: His father loved Maximus for his embodiment of the very virtues Commodus lacked, the crowd came to love him for his heroic deeds in the arena, and Commodus' sister clearly also loved Maximus for the man he was. Maximus did not aim to be loved. His goal was to be a good man, and to do what he thought was good. And he was loved for it. Commodus on the other hand *wanted* to be loved. But he could not be loved by anyone who knew him, for he was never taught how to be a good man.

[@GreyMan216]

Oh hell yes! The role that initiated my crush on Joaquin Phoenix.

[@straburyred]

Same here!

[@meissnerflux]

To have a great hero you need to have a convincing villain. Without Phoenix's petformance , Gladiator would have been lacking.

[@xavenstelmack1411]

Do Syndrome and Lots-o-huggin bear. They're two of the best pixar villains.

[@zetokaiba5867]

I think Syndrome has the highest body count in all of Pixar movies lol.

[@j.1759]

villains with an internal conflict is always interesting

[@emblemblade9245]

I find Syndrome a bit hard to believe at times, how he carried that grudge against Supers literally through all his childhood, teen years, and young adulthood, to the point of going into weapons industry just to get rich enough to get back at a group of people who were already forced underground. Like, what else was his life like that he was never able to get over that grudge? To the point of it becoming murderous at that. Still love the character though. Absolute bastard

[@elizabethjordan5755]

You'd be surprized at how one flippant remark (Bob's dismisal of Buddy's earnest adoration) can sent one down a dark path and shape one's destiny. Buddy so desperately wanted to be Robin to​ BobParr's Batman ( Mr. Incredible@@emblemblade9245

[@daniell1483]

Loved the movie. Commodus as portrayed is sad. As someone whose father died early in life, I can't help but see a bit of myself in him. That deep desire for something that truly is impossible to ever possess, his father's love and approval. Not to say that this means Commodus' actions are not reprehensible or anything, but I feel like I understand him. There is a sort of duality in the film between him and Maximus. Commodus lacked a loving father; Max is a loving father. Commodus's heart's desire was a loving family, which he was denied; Max loved his family so much that he just wanted to get home and put his days at war behind him. Imagine what might have been, had these two not become enemies but instead allies. There is the sense that Max could have curbed Commodus' excesses, and perhaps Max could have been that surrogate father figure. Had the two been able to work together, they would have achieved great things. Instead, as enemies, they take away from each other what the other holds most dear: Commodus takes Max's family, and Max takes away the love of the Roman people towards Commodus. Fascinating parallels.

[@straburyred]

Usually, villainy and vulnerability are like oil and water, but JP made it work!

[@daniell1483]

@@straburyred Jaoquin brings incredible life and vitality to the role. He made Commodus feel very real.

[@Badmonbas]

I want to see you do an analysis on Joffrey from Game of Thrones. Even though we wall look at him as an evil little piece of shit, I feel like you’d have an interesting take and breakdown as to how he became so vile.

[@valtersplume3726]

Ramsay Bolton is even more disgusting.

[@IBeMelissa]

Sorry but if my dad chose some other dude to inherit the throne that I literally was born into, I wouldn't exactly be jumping for joy either lmao.

[@josefsteen910]

I suggest doing a study of Salieri, from Amadeus, as he certainly does evil things but is not a clear-cut villain

[@karenstrong6734]

Yeah he should I love that movie, even though I know it’s historically inaccurate. But I love to see an analysis of Salieri (specifically the movie version).

[@FreeThinkingRealist]

Gladiator, a cinematic masterpiece. Although not entirely historically accurate, remains a truly great story, and that is what counts. But remembering also that today we live in such safe cotton wool padded arrogance that we can never be the judge of other ages or cultures, as we have no longer any concept of what our predecessors lived through or the hardships, values or realities they experienced. We are always the 'students' of history, never of 'masters'.

[@promnightdumpsterbaby9553]

One of the best channels on the interzones. Always makes my day seeing a new vid :)

[@mikelowry6286]

I'm ashamed it took me this long to watch gladiator what a powerful film.

[@brianmcgill7314]

He played the part exceptionally well 🧐

[@nunez3613]

love your vids man. hard to find a good analytical series. hope you make a million subs.

[@MeetYourDarkSide]

Every now and then I enjoy rooting for the bad guy. Gladiator is not one of those movies and Commodus is not one of those characters - but Joaquin Phoenix gives such an amazing performance that I can't help but love EVERY scene he's in. He's possibly the one character in fiction (off the top of my head) that I genuinely love to hate.

[@fontexfm]

Loved this character! Joaquin did a perfect job in this movie.

[@janrafftuzon8269]

imagine if ridley scott had Russel crowe choking joaquun phoenix in a bath that would be one of the greatest scenes in movie history hheeehehehe

[@spencerstevens2175]

Gladiator has like 4 stars giving unreal performances

[@corpsedesecrator2612]

He was basically a overgrown crybaby child that didn’t get attention however a side of me kinda has sympathy for him but great movie classik love Gladiator!!

[@straburyred]

You're not the only one. It's a perfect combination of spoiled brat and little boy bereft of affection.

[@osmanyousif7849]

Basically he's a combination of Scar and Joffrey (GOT).

[@collindysart6472]

Donald Trump.

[@jordanburton4147]

This is why his father took fault for his shortcomings in character.

[@reggiefurlow1]

Such a great villain cause you kinda got why he is mad but no one with a moral compass would act like him

[@o27001]

FINALLY. I've been waiting for this one eagerly, possibly my favorite Joaquin Phoenix performance. Looking forward to his next collaboration with Ridley Scott in the Napolean film

[@rodrigorodrigo1230]

this shoud have been his scond oscar (the first one for "To Die For",the third for "Walk the Line", fourth fo "Joker")

[@JoJoJoker]

His nephew has a cool name, Lucius.

[@Satellite_Of_Love]

His name actually comes from Marcus Aurelius' first co-emperor Lucius Verus. IRL he wasn't Commodus' nephew, he was Lucilla's first husband who ended up dying from the plague.

[@sinspawn01]

"In a vain attempt to appear regal" the vocabulary is on point my guy.

[@younessred2266]

Real life Commodus was taxing the life out of the senate and using that money to build baths and theaters for peoples entertainment, and he was a decent fighter with a strong physique based on what i’ve read from multiple historians of that time . But the senate eventually got him with them paying his trainer to kill him and destroying his reputation after his death.

[@Lou-Phil]

Rarely, there are KZbin videos that I “like” before watching them. This was such a video.

[@Xehanort10]

6:01 He probably thought someone might kill him in his sleep too.

[@chasehedges6775]

💯💯. Good point

[@iwatchthings231]

As historically inaccurate this movie is in terms of the events taking place, this is still a fantastic movie. The acting was top notch and the story wonderful. Phoenix honestly did a brilliant job at portraying how I imagine Commodus’s personality to be, even if his reign as portrayed here isn’t exactly accurate.