Gladiator: How Ideal Manhood Handles the Brutality of Life: Cain, Abel and Joseph of Egypt

****Update. Sorry folks if you can't see the video (I guess it still works in many countries, but not the US). This was my first attempt at a video essay and it appears I may have used longer clips than Universal Studios deemed valid as a "fair use" of their material, which is the legal doctrine that allows people to make video essays like this under certain conditions. I'll have to make sure I do things a little differently for my next essay.
I made a new version and split it into three different videos which you can see here, and which can be viewed in the US:
• How Archetypal Manhood...
• Ideal Manhood's Hostil...
• Ideal Manhood to the B...
Gladiator is one of my all-time favorite movies and I had a great time making a video essay about it. Stories are our master teachers, and I find a great deal of depth in this movie regarding manhood and living a great life. I can't help but admire Maximus, and I explore what there is to admire about him, and what kind of unique ways such an admirable character confronts the inevitable brutal and malevolent aspects of life.
In doing some research for this essay I was interested to find that the story wasn't just the work of one person. It took a team of individuals over more than a year to hone this story from something that transcended a simple revenge story to be about things higher and nobler.
The ending clip was taken from Jordan B. Peterson's lecture entitled "Cain and Abel: The Hostile Brothers," on which I relied for the development of some of my thoughts.
• Lecture: Biblical Seri...

[@nathanielartosilla9110]

I'm a few years too late for this comment but I must admit that I had goosebumps the entire time I was watching. We constantly hear talks about "toxic" masculinity so it's so refreshing to hear about the ideal masculinity. Kudos to you sir.

[@raystargazer7468]

Do you hear talk of it in real life tho?

[@rooskrist7870]

@@raystargazer7468 If you hang around the right circle, you won't hear this. Never be afraid to express your masculinity.

[@rohithjoseph6214]

Toxic masculinity is the one without right ideals. True masculinity give respect to the deserved where it is needed. I am very vigilant and worried on the people who are following Andrew Tate as an ideal nowadays. That's a downward spiral. Be dangerous and to control it at the same time is th

[@samuelzins5089]

Toxic masculinity is an excuse people use to justify not taking action

[@MW-dd8vk]

@@raystargazer7468 It's mainly on social media and in news articles from outlets like Buzzfeed and Vice. If you break away from those culture war echo chambers then you won't hear it as much.

[@CanOwhuppass]

"My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius." Still makes the hairs on my neck stand when he says this.

[@fritzhubertus]

He was a soldier of Rome. Honor him!

[@Quodge]

I went six years with a mortal wound and this scene was the only thing that got me through.

[@angelgurgutov3016]

Wow even your neck hairs solute him

[@noproblem2big337]

@@Quodge ... your soul can be mortally wounded as life can be brutal...as you raise from the depth of the abyss, never look back time heals and life will be great again!

[@guly]

@@Quodge can u tell me about the wound u had that was mortal for six years?

[@Luke47895]

One of my favourite small moments in the film is when Maximus reveals himself to Commodus, and Commodus then tries to provoke him into attacking him, but Maximus doesn't take the bait and even goes so far as to bow to him. Then, as he's leaving the arena, one of the Praetorian Guard gives him a nod of respect for enduring such a moment.

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

Yes. Little things like that make a movie great.

[@gorilliam]

Hardly a small moment!! Probably the most important part of the movie

[@SparrowFC]

I’d also like to add the symbolism in Commodus dying by his own dagger. Just beautiful.

[@clakoclakson]

Nice, the dagger could symbolize his hate and his wicked actions

[@richardscanlan3167]

Well,in the film anway.In reality,he was drugged by one of his concubines,a woman named Marcia,and strangled to death by a trained wrestler.His body was then dumped in the Tiber.Facts.

[@ed7590]

Great observation

[@Makainternational]

It is ‘Poetic justice’ for the Western world and ‘Karma’ for the Eastern world.

[@cliffsurtees5150]

Like Goliath was killed by his own sword.

[@alancrust]

"What we do in life, echoes in eternity", powerful and encouraging words indeed

[@thomaskoukouris4070]

Although realistically bullshit.

[@drax5872]

@@thomaskoukouris4070 Yes and no, every decision made by every person all throughout history has had a ripple effect and will continue to do so. I can for instance choose to not have kids, right there and then my lineage is ended and the future is missing out on a mix of good, average and evil people down the line, all of which would have made decisions of their own that would have affected the world around them. Our worth is to be found in our values. A good man is worth a great deal, a bad one is worth only the ground he will be buried in. Do right by those around you, be good, for the man who tears down others to build himself up does so on the weakest of foundations, and as he rises ever higher, out of sight of the rest, the further he will fall when the good man takes a piece from the bottom for those left down on the ground.

[@georgederuiter1412]

If you are one of the people, who believes in religion.

[@dearmrfrodo]

Now I understand why this movie is a masterpiece. Thanks for the great analysis.

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

Thanks for letting me know. I just put a new one out on the movie "Warrior" yesterday. I'm going to try to keep up commenting on manly movies for a while.

[@eddie-sf7hn]

​@@ThomasGaryNuila Was great until JP at the end started waffling.

[@jonburton2382]

Making a philosophical observation that supports and further elucidates the ideas purported in this video essay... is waffling?

[@Gyvulys]

@@eddie-sf7hn And are you implying Peterson is not right in what he says? Maybe you should actually argue his points, instead of throwing around childish insults like this? Hmm? Or do you not have the capability to? In fact, this is a common thing with Peterson's opposition - they insult and ridicule, rather than address his arguments. Pathetic.

[@Mansare94]

@@eddie-sf7hn You'll never move forward until you drop that ideology.

[@bobbestofbobs]

Nothing happens to a man by which he is not fitted by nature to bear - Marcus Aurelius

[@doctornov7]

being thrown into outer space would probably be something we aren't 'fitted to do', but his point is still mostly true

[@vinayseth1114]

Really? What about men who get raped in prison?

[@marcusporciuscato6404]

@@vinayseth1114 Or, just men or boys who get raped?

[@vinayseth1114]

@@marcusporciuscato6404 Yes. I was just giving a real-life example of unreasonable injustice which many are familiar with.

[@marcusporciuscato6404]

@@vinayseth1114 Mate, I agree with you, not attacking you just broadening your example.

[@dominicdarmanin9866]

Lol, the whole time I was like “this guy has been listening to Peterson”... Great video

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

Yes. Was definitely in the middle of listening to his biblical lecture series when I wrote this. This was kind of an outlet to apply some of his ideas.

[@wombat6]

@@ThomasGaryNuila You might want to be careful *which* of his ideas you want to apply. The man holds views that are worth disagreeing with.

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

@@wombat6 Sure some of them. And he also has many worth heeding. Feel free to share your reasons for any you disagree with.

[@alfric6747]

@@ThomasGaryNuila Read here for insight into Peterson. thenewmunicipalagenda.wordpress.com/2018/11/14/a-critique-of-jordan-peterson/ Ultimately I don't think he's got anything special to offer, and if I'm honest I think he's simply your average suburban middle aged man with nothing profound to say.

[@colelaing9685]

@@ThomasGaryNuila personally seeing my favourite public speaker and my favourite movie being merged together to create an amazing reading of this film was great. Peterson’s teachings on the role of masculinity have really moved me in the past year or so and it’s great to see people noticing it.

[@Fredcsgoes750]

When i'm feeling weak and lonely, i watch this video for strength, to renew my fate in Ideal manhood and my own capacity for Greatness. Thank you, Gary.

[@schicoski32]

Maybe not present brother, but in ideal, we are all with you

[@theDarkness558]

I do the same with this video and another one too. Watch it if you are interested: Stoicism in Shawshank redemption by the channel like Stories of old

[@Fredcsgoes750]

@@theDarkness558 Like Stories of Old é um dos meus canais favoritos. Você me parece um bom conservador, já conhece o instituto Borborema?

[@theDarkness558]

@@Fredcsgoes750 Tem brasileiro em todo canto da internet mesmo haha não conheço o instituto não, porém sou conservador sim, vou dar uma olhada no site. Obrigado a recomendação. Se já não te recomendo Jordan Peterson.

[@socrates6870]

That's what I do with this movie since 2000 A.D. Best of luck to you!

[@malicant123]

THIS is what young men should be watching. If ever I have a son, this will be a movie we will be watching together.

[@dominicweber]

Your poor son. So he grows up to be „masculine“? Get out of here 🤣

[@dominicweber]

@@MrVook I agree with what you said here, but sadly, not everyone has this concept of it. Too often you see these fathers who are like “my son won’t cry” type of BS. But good for you that you’re more open than that

[@carlottaalbini5505]

@@dominicweber projecting much? There's a lot to learn from how maximus acts in the movie, but yes is also a positive exemple of masculinity, another similar one I would say is Aragorn of LOTR

[@MrVook]

@Monkeysee Monkeydo There are still many brave men and women in this current era. Its just that in today's very safe environment, we arent offered as many opportunities to practice or demonstrate our bravery. But also remember, bravery comes in more forms than one

[@dominicweber]

@@carlottaalbini5505 but what the fuck even is masculinity???! Stop telling people how to behave, it’s because of ridiculous notions like this that so many men commit suicide every year, just because they think they’re not allowed to get help, because it’s not „manly“. Just shut up. Your weird imagined world is killing people. There’s no such thing as a „manly man“, there’s just men, and they get to decide what their masculinity entails. You do you, but just stop telling people how to behace

[@Harold_Flite]

Sometimes the frost makes the blade stick.....

[@heretyk_1337]

Which is one of the dumbest moments in this movie XD profesional guardist, an elite soldier, who was very well trained suddenly forgoet to oil the damn blade?...

[@heretyk_1337]

@Axel von Axelsson I think you mix Holly Wood perception of a knight/aristocrat/any kind of elite, that is not a poor person of the people, that will "RISE TO OCCASION"- as lazy bloodsucker, who fucks his subject wives and beats up defenseless pesants for sport- with who people like that really were... No cesar would take into his PERSONAL GUARD a guy who just, y`know, sorta knows how to swing a sword... They had very hard training, and they had standards- to the point, where they could actually overthrow a cesar. In those times real tests of one`s skill came about pretty often. Not to even mention- oiling the balde is "sword maintenance 101", just like sharpening it- many sacabbards were even lined with fur(all were at least partialy lined with fur- and they were made out of wood- which is no way it`ll stick, or were made out of leather- which is soft and flops around, when sword is not in it), dipped in oil, so you`d basically oil the balde with every unseathing or sheathing. That also prevented rattling of the weapon inside, when you ride, walk, run etc. and prevents blunting it ever so slightly with all the activities that you preform as a soldier, aside from fighting. And you don`t get metal scabbard- who also were filled with softer liner inside, also to prevent blunting- not utill XVIIIth XIXth century... And EVEN then about only metallic fixture, that could make blade go "shiiing", when one was drawing, was the throat of the scabbard, and it was barely two centimeters So, in summary- no, it would not get stuck :D Riddley Scott just likes his main heroes outwitt enemies in some "clever" ways

[@heretyk_1337]

@Axel von Axelsson Possibly. I just have enough of this old tired bullshit, that bad guys have luck against them in most important moments- in a way this is the definition of plot armor

[@adipecpipe7407]

@@heretyk_1337 check praetorian history, they were arrogant and to a extent hadnt seen a good fight or battle in years

[@o0GodZila0o]

@@heretyk_1337 Lighten up, it was a good movie

[@rewiringminds]

Now I truly understand that both of these men reside in all of us. At every moment, we choose to either go down one path or another. We need a great revival of the masculine ideals, and like all revivals, it must start with spreading these ideas around. Great work Gary.

[@gabykappscomposermariagabr749]

You confound masculinity with manliness. They are NOT the same thing. Masculinity is the sexual identity, the hormonal definition, which can also be abusive and violent. Manliness, however, is an accumulation of choices and above all, responsability. Responsability is not heroic, it is not accompanied by fireworks, it is often plodding and unsung. And it is selfless. A man ought to be moderate. And I really don't see that much around anywhere.

[@kanchokomancho4854]

@@gabykappscomposermariagabr749 Masculinity is not toxic. Masculinity is to be celebrated. Your semantics only serves as a smoke screen

[@gabykappscomposermariagabr749]

@@kanchokomancho4854 celebrated? Tell me why. Explain.

[@kanchokomancho4854]

@@gabykappscomposermariagabr749 Almost everything you see around you almost everything you use almost everything you know was thought of, discovered, built, engineered, manufactured by men, their curiosity, bravery, persistence, decisiveness, sacrifice, risk taking ability, integrity, their rationality, passion, creativeness and strength

[@Willy_Tepes]

@@gabykappscomposermariagabr749 Haha, you think only men are abusive and violent? Men at least are cruel in the open and people do not curse you if you strike them down.

[@oksraisk8848]

Gladiator is one of the best movies ever made. Russel Crow did an amazing job

[@MarkoVeselic]

Portraying him yes, Crowe was beyond amazing, deservedly won an Oscar, but I must say that Ridley was more responsible for the masterpiece.

[@n4859]

@@MarkoVeselic to be fair to Crowe he did help with a lot of the dialogue. Can’t believe Ridley Scott pulled off this masterpiece despite not having a proper script at the start of filming.

[@z4rko292]

Gladiator, Braveheart and The Last Samurai are some of my most favourite movies ever

[@drax5872]

@@z4rko292 Have you seen Outlaw King? It's basically Braveheart but better and wayyyyyyy more accurate. Don't get me wrong, few things beat the nostalgia of watching Braveheart. I literally grew up watching it once a week, like until the tape gave out and I got it on DVD, which I then watched until the DVD was scratched beyond being watchable. So in other words I love Braveheart, which is why I love Outlaw King even more.

[@TheStraightestWhitest]

@@drax5872 Outlaw King was fantastic, but in a different way. The impact of Braveheart was better, I just think Outlaw King nailed the grim reality of brutal actions simply being effective better. The moment Robert stabbed Comyn to death after not playing hero when his revolting populace was being slaughtered over Wallace was when I fell in love with the film.

[@ax_el_alvarez]

Marcus Aurelius: Won't you accept this great honor that I have offered you? Maximus: With all my heart, no. Marcus Aurelius: Maximus, that is why it must be you.

[@Killerfreak15555]

A Man like this is what modern world needs.

[@karagothshlomidabush3727]

you got few men like this in our modern world ben shapiro Jordan Peterson are good examples

[@wurthit1239]

The world had a man like this, they crucified him.......

[@TheStraightestWhitest]

@@karagothshlomidabush3727 Shapiro is a sellout little shit. Peterson however I'll agree is a modern Maximus.

[@georgederuiter1412]

Spoken like a slave, who needs people to think and act for him.

[@MA-yu2ss]

@@georgederuiter1412 exactly lol

[@alaia-awakened]

I am a woman and I’d like to confirm this is exactly why I love and rewatch this movie. This is the kind of man who inspires me to be the best kind of woman. Not through manipulation, but through service to a higher good. Great video

[@pontusschroder8361]

Hi, I got really curious when reading your answer and I am really interested to hear more about your thoughts. In what way does this kind of man inspires you to be the best kind of woman? and what do you mean saying ”through service to a higher good”? Do you think a man should ” behave ” in another way than a woman, or is it the ”humanity” in him that inspires you? Thanks in advance.

[@Prometheus7272]

​@Pontus Schroder She's not going to be able to answer that question. Women do not understand why they feel things, their instinctual like that.

[@Gerox566]

@@Prometheus7272 don't project your insecurities onto others brother

[@Prometheus7272]

@Gerard Agusti It's not, just my observations of reality, I'm not even hating on her. People should be who they are, and we should be able to admit that.

[@smpdevelopments]

Men exist only to love women, we will die for you. this movie perfectly personifies men.

[@denachtconducteur7070]

After seeing Gladiator for over 16 years. Last year i came to the same conclusion. The movie isnt about the story of gladiator. Its about the man maximus is.

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

Agreed. I think it's the reason we all keep on coming back to it.

[@DS-pk4eh]

It's about life itself. About struggle and battle we have in life. About not giving up. About fighting for right things. About being strong and nice.

[@oftino]

@@DS-pk4eh rage agaisnt the dying of the light

[@13Krentebol]

@@Competitive_Antagonist Its the best thing I've ever done

[@Pouffly]

It's all about stoicism. Which Marcus Aurelius taught and learned almost his whole life. We see from the beginning a man with great power on hands, he manages battles and wars like nothing, he pretty much excels at what he does and this is why his soldiers like him, but also his mentor, leader and above all, the Ceasar, who praises him and adores him like a son. Why ? Because Maximus is a man of word, honesty, courtesy, modesty and most of all, brave and courageous. Virtues that are meaningful for Marcus Aurelius. He asks him what gift could he possibly offer to him, and he replies "let me go home." Another aspect of a man who before all has properties on his family and kind work. Marcus Aurelius then offers him his place, but he refuses it immediatly. Marcus wasn't disappointed on the contrary, he was rather happy and satisfied by his answer. Because he actually aknowledge that virtue Maximus has in him. Not corrupted, not eaten by hatred or anger. He simply wants a normal life. Then the rest of the film is basically Commodus antagonizing him to death just to pull the trigger and do something he would regret. But that isn't the case with Maximus. He already lost everything.

[@ThatGuy-yc9yc]

a man wears many faces, he is a husband a father a friend a comforter a lover a warrior a provider a protector a scolder a teacher a strength to the weak a guidance to the uncertain a hope for the weary a hero to children a rage to the unjust and a smile to the innocent A true man knows when to put on each face for the sake of those who need it, in any an all circumstances.

[@119atharvachopdekar3]

Dayum!🙌😲

[@mahmoud1002]

@Natmanprime That's what a person who isn't a man would say 😂

[@gabykappscomposermariagabr749]

Show me where such a man is mate. Cause they seem to be pretty thin on the ground according to my estimation. And there are women who are exactly the same things you list for men. Not to mention, when mothers, self-sacrificing and selfless.

[@ThatGuy-yc9yc]

@@gabykappscomposermariagabr749 um, I do agree that there are woman who have these characteristics, but isn't this comment a bit out of place? This is indeed a video for men about manliness. It's like you walking into a men's bathroom and complaining about the urinals. That aside, there are still men who hold these characteristic, but they are mainly those who hold older generational values and most of the time they are conservatives who get vilified immediately upon mention, even before they can prove their character. Aside from many other reasons, today many men are encouraged to take the roles of woman and become more feminine and woman are encouraged to take the roles of men and become more masculine and depending on your social environment and those you surround yourself with, finding men who hold these older values might appear scarce.

[@gabykappscomposermariagabr749]

@@ThatGuy-yc9yc no comment is ever out of place on a democratic platform. I see a great many men commenting on women's videos, so I really don't see the relevance here. Conservative men AND women are often vilified, precisely because they decide to be stoics and not obey to this world of self-centered morons. Being different has its costs. For all.

[@Venezuelangel]

"Those who know pain most exquisitely, know how to produce it in others". Dude, is that yours?

[@carlos-zr1pt]

Alberto Rangel jordan peterson i think

[@Witnessmoo]

This whole video is basically applying Jordan Peterson’s philosophy

[@benderb.r5041]

First Law Trilogy maybe.

[@sauravbasak9192]

I just read that chapter today from his book. Can't believe I am hearing the same words again, on the same day. It is a great book. 12 rules for life.

[@idriscortez8634]

@@sauravbasak9192 Attraction law

[@hamarbiljungskile8953]

Maximus is a stoic, and stoicism is the perfect antidote to today's hedonistic zeitgeist. That's why people like him on an almost subconscious level. There's nothing more to it.

[@jayeshr6418]

Can you dumb your statement down for me ? When someone seeks a pleasure life, why would they like a man of suffering?

[@hamarbiljungskile8953]

@@jayeshr6418 Because everybody _needs_ balance, and it's missing from today's way of life for the most part.

[@jayeshr6418]

@@hamarbiljungskile8953 ahh ok ok understood, makes sense now.

[@MasterOfCope]

Yeah humans are born for the balance of suffering and pleasure. You can see in todays western society that a life of hedonism leads to unhappiness and illness, looks at the obesity and depressions rates. Young men are especially at risk because they have no goals and therefore no need to suffer.

[@vvenkat111]

There is suffering in both action and inaction. Is it better then to suffer from action? Yes because that leads to knowledge and wisdom. Suffering from inaction is one of penitence and "what might have been". Such suffeirng crushes the soul. A stoic is one who endures the suffering that action brings on him, because it does not come alone. It comes with knowledge. Ignorance is the only companion that comes with the suffering that inaction brings. And such people inevitably complain.

[@juangil4565]

"you cannot be a gentleman without being a man first, someone who can rip off heads in power and fury. But a gentleman then restraints that power to gentleness, in order to respect his elders, women, children and society" this completely got me, something that every man should aspire to

[@monicagambino318]

This! The truth right there

[@theaverageitaliandon998]

It’s true but let’s be honest most gentlemen don’t bear the capacity to be brutal

[@UndergroundGoldie]

There's a podcast of Jocko and Jordan Peterson which elaborates on this subject, it's worth the listen

[@bonir2003]

Maximus is the classical hero who sacrifices his home and family for duty to his city state. The great soldier who wants to go home to tend his farm is the old Roman ideal.

[@vinayseth1114]

Interesting. Thanks for the info. What would you say is today's ideal though? Also, do you see the Roman ideal as a corruption of the Greek one-or do you see it as a natural evolution?

[@user-rv4wn5qk7q]

@@vinayseth1114 It hasnt changed, the difference is that today we have much more "Commodus" and much less "Maximus"

[@vinayseth1114]

@@user-rv4wn5qk7q I would like to counter that with a question I put forth in a comment below: In this day and age, with women being openly vicious, scheming and unfaithful at all levels, is it even possible for a just man to consider living a life of family? I think that it's slightly arrogant and foolish to think that manhood doesn't interact with womanhood?

[@user-rv4wn5qk7q]

@@vinayseth1114 Yes, It is, like I said, today people are more like Commodus and much less like Maximus

[@3ch056]

I think the historical figure you're looking for is Cincinnatus. He's the Roman general that lived a quiet life as a farmer and was called in to fight for Rome then returned home to be a farmer again.

[@juansebastianperez3850]

Strenght and Honor. Thanks for your time and effort in this video. Great work

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

Sorry to take so long to reply. Thanks so much. It makes it worth it. Got another one out today.

[@Zack-tx7oz]

An outstanding essay on how an ideal man handles life. To say well done to you is a great understatement. Brilliant exposition that touches on the roots of masculinity and what does it mean to be a good man. I liked that you said that a gentleman needs to be a man first. I hardly comment on KZbin and this is my first time I stumbled and watched your video. Yet, its not often I find excellent quality content that does it for its own quality. Its refreshingly inspiring. Thank you. A similar video with very relatable themes I came across was Heroism and Moral Victory - Lord of The Rings. All the same, you've earned it. Honour to you!

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

Thank you for your compliments. It moves me to want to make more of these. I also really appreciate the Like Stories of Old channel you mentioned. He does a really good job.

[@alexsunder9122]

Very well said my second comment on the same video in KZbin after being for 15 years on it. So well written .. hopefully the fella who made the content writes a book

[@harryd4995]

Understand now why I always loved this film. Everyman wants to be like him.

[@batmanofsweden5920]

Missed one thing: He even makes Quintus CHANGE and this time HONOR Maximus a fairer chance of winning, ordering his Praetorians to sheathe their swords - An order most likely would get him executed if Maximus lost.

[@Bigjuicydumbdumb]

Also, in the scene after Maximus defeats Tigris of Gaul, the praetorian steps aside as maximus exists the box formation. There is a lot to this. They already honor Maximus, but also respect his loss, as Comodus mocks the death of his family.

[@CharlesVeitch]

Bravo. You nailed it

[@lsuiram]

maximus was a common name in Rome.... go get some latin history...

[@gustavotawil]

@@lsuiram Yes, that's precisely the point. Well done champ

[@WithmeVerissimusWhostoned]

holy wow, I rarely hear anyone speak with such clarity... saying so little yet expressing so much

[@user-yj9qq2zd9i]

No, I am not a bot and this is not a virus. give.rachasheilev-fund.org/campaign/605c7249dff03d77e50aa898 Please, spread this elsewhere. This child needs your help.

[@karlopeternel7685]

Yes

[@longlivingdude]

This video is the perfect analysis that sums up my love for this movie. I first saw the movie when I was 14 on a small tv screen but this movie struck a nerve real hard. I grew up without a father figure in my life so seeing this great strong alpha-type man fighting for his family's honor just hit home. What I also really liked were the small moments of empathy Maximus shows throughout the film (smiling at the flying bird, helping Marcus Aurelius getting on his horse while Commodus simply keeps looking at his struggling father, Maximus' interaction with the figurines etc.). Not everything in a man's life is about muscle and brawn but the development of character and soul. I also quite liked the ambiguity of heaven in the film and leaving the whole notion of religion open to the viewer. I wish more men would watch the movie and truly understand what it takes to be a man. I absolutely loved the performances, the costumes, the settings, the characters, cinematography and ofcourse the soundtrack. This will be the best movie I will see in my lifetime and cherish it deeply in my heart. What we do in life, echoes in eternity!

[@alec2726]

Decimus, tat's a real rapt and I agree!

[@peacock69mcp]

This movie teaches matured masculinity for men. I keep learning something new everytime I watch it and I have watched it a million times. Its just unbelievable. Its a fictionalized history which is even better than history itself. So it was made to teach moral values and gratitude to men globally.

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

I agree. It has a very universal appeal because it touches on such foundational themes.

[@peacock69mcp]

@@ThomasGaryNuila perhaps such life lessons and other soft skills were taught to everyone at middle school.

[@AmirZarif47]

this essay blew me away. i've watched Gladiator no less than 7 times i think. There's so many things to love about this movie - but the character is indeed what keeps drawing us back, as somone said below. thank you for really digging and concisely elaborate why this movie is such a masterpiece

[@kesegalike]

Gladiator is a movie I always watch when i feel depressed, the battle at the Colosseum against the chariots makes my adrenaline to rush all over and gives me the will to continue and keep motivated in whatever project i take myself in.

[@AcceiusTriarii]

It is indeed a good way to get yourself together in tough times, it reminds me of what I'm striving for as a man and a person.

[@jesusismyfather0x]

Hey there! Ever thought about embracing God's incredible love through Jesus Christ? He's the ultimate sacrifice, forgiving, redeeming, and offering eternal life. His message is all about hope and salvation, inviting everyone to find peace, purpose, and joy by connecting with our loving Creator. It's like having a loving friend who's always got your back, guiding you towards a life full of meaning and fulfillment. So, why not give it a shot? Experience the amazing love and grace of Jesus - it's a journey that'll light up your life with hope and happiness. Come as you are, and let Jesus' embrace show you a whole new world of love and acceptance. Trust me, it's totally worth it!

[@eversontaveras212]

Also, notice how in the final battle Commodus dresses in all-white. He's using manipulation, again, to try and paint himself as the good guy. In a lot of ways, Commodus' character flaws are akin to the "fake it till you make it" approach many of us adopt in the pursuit of success. What Gladiator teaches us is that glory cannot be cheated. It must be earned through sacrifice, patience and competence.

[@Bojanglesz89]

Nice video. I was not suprised to see Jordan Peterson at the end of it.

[@Arcessitor]

@@illegalsmirf Accurate

[@keine031]

SPOILERS DUDE

[@Gyvulys]

@@illegalsmirf Such idiotic gibberish only makes you yourself seem, like what you are trying to paint Peterson as. If you disagree with him, then, like an actual adult, and an intelligent being, address his points and refute them. The way you act now, especially considering, that you can only speak this way behind the screen, shows, that you are probably not even 1/10th the man he is.

[@vaahtobileet]

@@Gyvulys I don't think you're using enough commas to make your text Peterson-like enough.

[@Gyvulys]

@@vaahtobileet Simply using commas (writing in a proper and tidy way) is being "Peterson-like"? Aren't you the bright one... Amazing times, when proper punctuation is being sneered at...

[@TheLiberatorr]

When you realise after all these years trying to become a Maximus you actually ended up being a Commodus... I guess you can't force the nature..

[@riyanprsnl360]

Tragic

[@sdprz7893]

This hurt to read, I’ve really let myself down

[@asheru9254]

Commodus looks like today's the joker

[@maximmikheli3033]

So you're saying she wasn't your step-si.. oh.. my man

[@Tofushoots]

“With all my heart no” that is so powerful.

[@Odqvist89]

Maybe the most masculine quality there is is competence, or ability. Or even attitude.

[@dextro3481]

from time to time I come here to remind myself of how the ideal man carries himself through life. Thank you so much - this video means so much to me - I even extracted some key phrases out and put them on a sheet hang behind my monitor display.

[@terragaia7092]

I was introduced to Gladiator when I was 8. My father sat behind me and grandfather beside me. I never knew what message it brings from it being so young and innocent. But I knew it was not just a movie but a transcending power that motivates males highly. Now both men have left me and I'm an adult. I'm starting to question what really Gladiator is trying to say. What my grandfather and father felt from the movie. What did it instill spiritually to these men before they left me in their final deathbed. Perhaps now I understand. I'm proud to state how Gladiator was one of the influential art made by then, now and future for mankind and for *men* Beautiful analysis and breakdown! Non stop making real content! Subbed!

[@JohnSmith-ox3gy]

Man has got to do what man has got to do.

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

Totally.

[@johnleung7250]

I hate Uncle Jaime!

[@hecateswolf6007]

Yeah man gotta be done

[@dandynoble19]

Maximus: "They honor you, Caesar." Marcus: "It's for you, Maximus. They honor you."

[@M1and5M]

0:38 Part 1: the ideal men 5:10 Part 2: Cain and Abel 10:15 Part 3: Joseph of Egypt

[@grizzly9960]

and those are not tears in my eyes.. i was cutting onions or allergies thats it its allergy season.

[@SparrowFC]

Grizzly you too? Oh man. Something much deeper resonating with all this.

[@mitchellscott8792]

I love that you added Jordan Peterson at the end, it was very fitting and you have helped me put into words as to why I've always found Gladiator so inspiring!

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

It's been fun to think about Jordan Peterson ideas and then go back and see how they reply to many things that were already meaningful. I think one of the most frequent comments he gets is that people say "I somehow already knew what you have been talking about, but couldn't articulate it before you put it into words."

[@MusixPro4u]

I have just written the same comment, without realizing you had already wrote it.

[@adrianseanheidmann4559]

@@ThomasGaryNuila The ooooh-so-great Peterson. Is it really THAT difficult to be an upright, integrate guy who is loyal an independent thinker without the help of a guidance?? Are we THAT lost? Where da fuq did you all grow up that you became so gooood damn dependent on someone who just repeats COMMON-SENSE floscels wrapped around in some noice "scientifically" long sentences so that you all fall for this masquerad. I'm not saying Peterson is in any way a bad guy. Put he tries push HIS "MUURR HURR DURRR POST-MODERN MARXIST" agenda waaaaaaay to hard waaaaaaaay over his limits over understanding of even grasping the outlines of those socialical matters. Maaah fuckig god get a life mate.

[@adrianseanheidmann4559]

@@ThomasGaryNuila " highflyguy1 1 day ago Maximus was 100% Alpha, men wanted to be him and women wanted to be with him. " This kind of comments here... what a great fucking audience. APLHA YEAAAH.

[@spartanrabbit]

@@adrianseanheidmann4559 right? I cringe at men who call themselves alpha. Instant turnoff.

[@armandblake]

How Jordan Peterson would review this movie. Good job mate

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

Thanks. He's definitely helped me to look at stories and characters in new ways.

[@spinner771]

Gary Nuila lol pill addict

[@konjovi2]

This essay has been one of the better in-depth analyses of the human character and the attitudes towards life.

[@zanetruesdale8336]

Holy crap. This video has been on my "Watch Later" list for months and I've finally watched it. Without a doubt, one of the best video essays I've ever seen. I'm shocked you don't even have 1000 subscribers. You described perfectly why I love this movie even though I didn't know it myself.

[@monologue556]

My father took me to watch this movie when it just dropped. I couldn't finish watching your video because it kept bringing up some pretty emotional flashbacks of him, but thanks for this.

[@abnayr8440]

I needed this. Was beginning to feel burdened. “Sacrificing this moment to the ideal”

[@Willy_Tepes]

The Lord puts burdens on your shoulders to make you stronger.

[@MertSu66]

***stoicism intensifies*** got a tear drop and a subscribtion out of me

[@elektrotehnik94]

He really did a great job, was impressed

[@therabman_5606]

Gladiator an brave heart.... best sound tracks in cinema history

[@jsyvret472]

Joaquin Phoenix is absolutely brilliant in this film. I'm glad Hollywood eventually realised what a talent they have in him. great video on an excellent film

[@vinniesdayoff3968]

"The Old Man And The Sea" is like this. I wondered why I liked it, then figured out that I admire Santiago because he is so honest and honourable and prevails, despite his advanced years, through sheer grit and strength of character.

[@HenrikaArt]

He doesn't kill Commodus because he doesn't want to abandon his principals in front of the child who admires him so. Seeing his own son in this boy he does not want to disappoint him and cause him lose his faith in goodness and strenght the way Commodus does, that is why he can't kill Commodus in front of the child's eyes.

[@RichardWilliamDamien]

Hey man, I wanted to thank you to have made this video. It's my favorite of all from the internet. It was a pillar stone that leads me to faith. I'm sharing it often in hope to help others.

[@MrDunkelBerry]

This essay makes me appreciate the story of Maximus much more and how a true stoic approaches the arbitrary hardships of life. It is fitting since Marcus Aurelius was a stoic, that his "son" Maximus follows the same philosophy. Very well done.

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

A great deal of wisdom in stoicism. It's definitely impacted my life.

[@willykitheka7618]

you've done a very good job offering the commentary! It's a confirmation why I love this movie so much!!

[@mazenabraham8338]

Courage is the essence of manhood !

[@moeye7642]

Discipline*

[@moeye7642]

everyone can be brave and reckless or stupid

[@Willy_Tepes]

@Suvam Kayasth How many leaders have fought their battles all alone? I can achieve more with words than you can with a sword.

[@Willy_Tepes]

​@Suvam Kayasth You should have told Hitler that, or Jesus, or Muhammed, or Buddha, or Marx. Do you think they would have gotten far by swinging a sword? They did their work with words. If called for I have all the physical ability I need. I am actually in better shape at 50 than I was at 20. It does help to know how to operate basically any weapons system too. The difference between men and woman is not only physical. We also have greater levels of agression, are not so submissive, think in a more spatial and technical/logical way, and are usually less emotional.

[@Willy_Tepes]

@Suvam Kayasth If you give men arms and strength without ideology and guidance, you get only senseless violence. In all religions we have "weaklings" that would rather become martyrs than fight. The power of a warrior is in his attitude to life. I have seen many men at the gym that I would never pick for a mission. I get your point though, but it all starts in your mind.

[@codemasterz6074]

Great essay. One note to add - what makes Maximus great is the fact that he is not attracted by power. He is ruled by ideals and noble purposes. There is something about power that draws scummy and corrupt people to it, this is true even to this day, and always will be as long as politics will exist on this earth. Maximus however has a pure heart, even as a warrior did what he had to because he believed in the Roman Empire, without knowing its true colors as Caesar implies. Great rulers were always genuinely interested in the well being. "this is why it must be you maximus". A man with a strong heart, iron fist, and untainted heart, what better ruler can an empire get? I tend to beleive that Maximus would have eventually accepted Caesars offer if he wasn`t murdered first of course.

[@ignaciomontero3493]

One of the best videos on masculinity that I have ever seen. The power of sacrifice to pull fortitude and the lesson that survival is secondary to values & worth. The wrap-up words of Jordan Peterson are the crux of the matter. My humble congratulations, Gary. I subscribed for checking out new videos and wisdom.

[@spittooncollective7641]

That's a bloody good video. Well done.

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@raypotgieter4430]

this is the first of your videos I came across (presuming there are more) and I want to honour you on your insight and editing skills. May you reach 10 thousand subscribers before the end of the year

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

I would love that. Thanks for your confidence. Makes me want to work to get the vids out to try to get there.

[@nikolaykolin7384]

True, we do watch this movie, myself included, over and over again, but the commentary you did Sir is impeccable. Similarly to watching "Gladiator" a few times a year, since the discovery of your commentary, I now find myself listening to it the same number of times per year, if not even more. Bravo! 👏 🎉🙌

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

I appreciate you letting me know. I’m trying to get back into the video essay game so hopefully more soon!

[@Qwufi]

Actually Marcus Aurelius known a man called Maximus. He is reflecting what did he learn from him in Meditations.

[@noisepollution5659]

pain and principal are man's romance, we born to be great.

[@nigelbhebhe2805]

Yessir

[@rivolinho]

Been a huge fan of this film for almost 20 years and have watched it countless times. The extras on the special edition dvds and blurays go into fantastic detail about the making of this masterpiece. Of most interest to me was the screenplay/scriptwriting. It's incredible to think that when principle photography began on Gladiator they only had about a third or one act of the three act format down on paper. They literally made it up as they went along. It could so easily have been a car crash and very nearly ended up a 1 dimensional action/revenge movie aimed at teenage boys. But thankfully someone saw the sense in getting some heavyweight British theatre writers on board to flesh out the character of Maximus. These people who only signed up at the last minute are the chief reason Gladiator has such a wonderful central theme, that of the afterlife and the desire of Maximus to once again see his wife and son. Their input turned yet another forgettable blockbuster into a truly heartfelt and poignant piece of cinema, a movie that almost every demographic can relate to in some way.

[@deepro666]

A very well constructed video. Great use of visuals and music. Also made me appreciate the movie all over again. Thank you so much

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

Glad to make something people find value in.

[@Dahblackrussian]

Your analysis brought me to tears, I've seen myself as commodus for far too long. Thankyou brother

[@OzGeologyOfficial]

This is an exceptional video. I noticed it's been over a half a year since you posted, I really hope you gain the motivation through the breakthrough success you are experiencing and make more content such as this. Great work, I adored every minute of this. Come back Gary!

[@alwarberigai5955]

Really liked the analogy of sacrificing for right cause. My dad taught me this when I was lot younger. It stuck with me since.

[@brieesephone8911]

As a woman, this is a great insight and analysis of manhood out there! I haven't watched the movie yet; only some of its parts, but I will surely find some time between my busy schedule. That's why I got worried that this might fall into aspiring being an "Alpha Male" type of manhood, but watching through the end, it's not. I summarize "Alpha Males" from what I see in social media who claimed themselves to be, is about obtaining and FLAUNTING power. Whether it be in the form of money, women, achievements, etc. Instead of making them appear "dominant" as they try out to be, it makes them look more insecure, compared to a man who lives by his principles. Watching the clips on how Maximus acts, he doesn't have to display his high-ranking position, the admiration of the emperor or skills to be honored and celebrated, but simply on the way he acts on his principles. I think what touches me the most is when he said "we've got a better chance of survival if we work together" and then in the next clips, he saved one of the men who was injured. I think it's great to show and teach men that you don't have to do things on your own, we can achieve more if we take and need the help from others. I think this quote sums it up perfectly on how men should aspire to be: "You cannot be a gentleman, without being a man first; someone who can rip off heads in power and fury. But a gentleman then restraints that power to gentleness in order to respect his elders, women, children, and society" As a woman, it is undeniable that we are more attracted to a man who has a sense of gentleness and not just rely on brute strength and often anger, that if it's not managed; eventually leads to violence. Not all, but some men do try hard to be a Maximus but usually fall into a Commodus. As stated; "instead of accepting his responsibility for his failings, instead of cursing himself. He cast blame on everything else.” This might fall into single/rejected men, nevertheless, instead of accepting rejection or their mistakes, they blame and hate women or how society has changed even, instead of looking to themself and thinking that they might be in the wrong or have done something wrong. Gosh, this is so long already but the video essay is just that thought provoking! I don’t usually comment a lot, but I just wanted to say something and more but I’ll just stop here. This was a job well done and I’m looking forward to watching more of your videos. Keep up the great work! 👏💕

[@VonRibbitt]

Although i agree with the mayority of what you said, i do wanna comment on one point you made. "This might fall into single/rejected men, nevertheless, instead of accepting rejection or their mistakes, they blame and hate women or how society has changed even, instead of looking to themself and thinking that they might be in the wrong or have done something wrong." Yes, a lot of men handle rejection badly, but sometimes women dont reject men because the men commited a mistake or acted poorly, sometimes women just reject men in a real cruel and condesending way and the man didnt even do anything wrong that time. This causes extreme confusion on males, specially young men, a confusion of not knowing if they are the ones to blame or not. Its impossible for us to know when we fucked up or not, since no one takes the time to tell us what we did wrong or right and just blame us for everything, its impossible for us to know when we did everything respectfully but the woman was just an asshole about it. This leads to a resentment, that some men confuse the women who were assholes with every woman, some dont. But the confusion and blaming comes from a place where no matter what we do, if we do right or wrong, we still get blamed for it.

[@morillosky]

“I come in a world of iron...to make a world of gold”,“Too much sanity may be madness - and maddest of all: to see life as it is, and not as it should be!” ― Dale Wasserman, Man of La Mancha

[@blazecorp]

One of the best youtube videos I have ever seen. Brilliant in its insight, excellent in its application and thought provoking in its memory. Well done.

[@williambrowne]

Currently studying media at college and always wondered why I love gladiator. Thank you so much for this video, keep making more that cover the meanings in film, how they relate to real life and why and I'm sure you will be the next to gain the people's wonder

[@pedrocorderoalvarez2872]

Love the video. And it's always a pleasure to see JP make an appearance :)

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

I appreciate you letting me know. Yeah, it was cool how well JP's thought lined up with the movie.

[@mustangbushido]

How do you not have over 100K subscribers? This is brilliant a message needing to be heard by thousands of people. Men and women alike.

[@sithraeil]

I dont think Gladiator is such a great movie, but the story you tell through it conveys a deep and meaningful message that cannot be argued with. And that is what matters. Loved it! Thank you

[@acerimmer7557]

You've got yourself another subscriber mate. Good job.

[@grizzly9960]

Something SJW's will never understand. They are like the villain in the movie trying to bend the world to their own personal vision. Rather than enjoying and loving the life that was given to us.

[@LordIvor6]

It's ironic, since Maximus was never anything but himself, he was the ideal man because he was actually ideal. Meanwhile Commodus merely wanted to change what it meant to be a man, at the very beginning he tried to argue with his father that even if he lacked the 4 virtues he's still good because he has made up his own. Nihil novi, there's no need to invent what it means to be a man or reinvent it, simply be or aspire to be.

[@MrTheJo92]

@@LordIvor6You realize that the virtues that Maximus has are equally as constructed as the ones that Commodus has, right? Just another IDEOLOGY (as in the IDEAL man), just one that more people agreed on at one certain point in time. 'Ambition', as Commodus calls it, I would define as one of the essential virtues of our modern society. Goes to show how these things shift.

[@xavpaw]

@@MrTheJo92 ambition may get you far in today's world (or even back then) but it's not a specifically honorable virtue

[@MrTheJo92]

@@xavpaw I'm pretty sure the top-level managers of today would disagree with you on that point. I would even argue that in the corporate world, it is the most important character trait. It is indeed mistaken for a virtue and put before real ones like fairness and helping your community / team grow. People that are ambitious, the CEOs of today, are HONOURED in a manner very similar to succesful military men back then. After all, global business is just a substitute for the battlefields of old.

[@gales9969]

There are no "sjw's".

[@Vurti0]

The cutting, tone of voice and how u construct the context of this episode is on point! I got that book on my shelf but i havent red it yet. This vid will serve as a good dot when i actually read it! cheers mate

[@wurthit1239]

“You cannot be a gentleman, without first being a man “ well said👍

[@CMX70]

Same actor, same message portrayed in the character Jack Aubry, a man that lives by a moral code, a flawed but honourable man that others would follow to the gates of hell. I recommend the Aubry-Maturin series by Patrick O'Brien. The film Master & Commander - Far Side Of The World is based on these novels.

[@alec2726]

Whether anybody knows, two more Australians; Patrick O'Brien and Russell Crowe.

[@davidwahlstrom6148]

Thank you for putting together this work. It sure touches the heart at several moments.

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

That makes it worth making. Thank you. Trying to get one out on Blade Runner 2049 this week.

[@neilt.i.w737]

MissionTop: one of the most fitting 21min I have watched in a long time. Thank you.

[@Venezuelangel]

This essay is ripe with understanding of spirituality and the archetypal symbols. Immediately subscribed.

[@FootBallFreeStyleTV1]

Great analysis of a great movie. I watched this movie in my childhood the first time and it spoke volumes to me. I have always tried to make sense of the many lessons and messages behind it and you have helped me realise a greal deal of things. Thank you for your work, I salute you!

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

Strength and honor, man! Thanks.

[@Alfamoto8]

While I found your commentary very interesting, a masterpiece is more than a good character. Maximus is one of the best characters on screen but also Commodus is one of the best villain-characters and the music and the direction and everything in this movie is one of the best of their kind!!!

[@ChibiBoxing]

Excelent video, the last words of your essay are beautiful, and it is so real. Since I was small, I always saw something MORE to the movie, more than just plain entertainment, and thanks to Peterson and YOU, I was able to make my mind of what was that it was lurking beneath the mere movie. Thanks.

[@gorky1986]

Wow. Great naration and editing! And a masterpiece of analysis. I will see this work many times !

[@NickElliottOutdoors]

I’ve watched your video at least 5 times. Such a great analysis.

[@dochmbi]

Fantastic video. Can't believe you only have 300 subs. I watched the entire thing. It's so nice to see a rise of healthy masculinity for all the desperate, lost young men of our times. Peterson, Joe Rogan and now you are providing a fantastic role model.

[@ThomasGaryNuila]

Thanks. I appreciate it. If I can get myself to be more consistent, I'm hoping I'll grow more. Yeah, I agree some encouraging messengers have surfaced in the last while talking about masculinity. Hope to make a contribution that way.

[@larsyxa]

I think this is one of the best vids on yt ever. For us.

[@falsesatsuma5659]

We don't even get the honour

[@apurvakmr]

I have seen lot of movie analysis. This is the best thorough analysis of any movie I have seen. Well done. This is not analysis, but a lesson.

[@kravmagadfpchap7095]

"What we do in life, echoes in Eternity" !!!

[@CrunchyNorbert]

see how corruption hides behind the innocent? 15:00

[@theempress1104]

Yes... so true.

[@pliit2101]

Do something about it then, pussy

[@charlesmcgill9652]

@@pliit2101 you're too dumb to understand

[@wayfinderofficial]

This is a great movie analysis. Thanks for putting in the time and effort to make this. It's spot on!

[@davidtepanosyan540]

Beautiful, nicely done really!! I enjoy deep videos of this caliber that use quality of the expressions and the music match with the speach. A splendid effort that one seldom finds it on the KZbin!

[@maximodomiguez4079]

Great work man! Gladiator is one of my favourite movies, keep it up!!

[@alexanderseijs3878]

Great job man! Excellent work. A message not often enough spread.

[@officialwork1679]

THIS IS AN ABSOLUTE MASTERPIECE! How did I not see this years before! You have literally awakened my spirit! THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART!

[@The_Scouts_Code]

This analysis, just like the movie it’s centred on, is a masterpiece.