A legendary film hailed by cinema enthusiasts as an ‘all-time’ classic will be broadcast on BBC Two this evening.

Hitting screens in 2000 under the direction of renowned filmmaker Ridley Scott, Gladiator has established itself as essential viewing, with audiences applauding the spectacular battle sequences alongside Russell Crowe’s powerful central performance.

The ensemble features a stellar line-up including Richard Harris, Connie Nielsen, Oliver Reed and Tommy Flanagan.

Gladiator charts the journey of Roman general Maximus Decimus Meridius (Russell Crowe), whose life is shattered when the power-hungry Commodus, son of Emperor Marcus Aurelius (Joaquin Phoenix), orchestrates his downfall and slaughters his loved ones.

Forced into servitude, Maximus enters the gladiatorial arena where he climbs through the ranks, determined to exact vengeance upon Commodus.

His prowess earns him adoration from the masses, which he leverages to ultimately face the corrupt emperor within the Roman Colosseum.

Boasting an impressive rating on film review platform Rotten Tomatoes, it has captivated moviegoers for over two decades.

One review awarded it five stars, saying: “What a movie! Maximus is the ultimate protagonist. Violence, friendship, suffering, love, redemption; this movie has it all.”, reports the Mirror.

Another added: “One of my all time favorites. Absolutely stunning film in every possible aspect. A must see for anyone who likes movies.

“An absolute masterpiece – *Gladiator* is cinema at its finest!” remarked another. Another viewer said: “A brilliant film – breathtaking in its scope but also intimate in the portrayal of its characters. Every scene is a joy and Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix are magnificent.”

Further praise was heaped upon Russell Crowe’s lead performance, which earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor.

One review said: “This will always be a 5 star movie. Russell Crowe’s best.”

Another echoed this sentiment, noting: “Crowe and Phoenix team up to make this masterpiece of a film from director Ridley Scott.

“Russell Crowe gives one of his most iconic performances as Maximus, a tragic hero whose journey of vengeance and honor resonates just as powerfully today,’ said another”, said another.

Despite the film not achieving the highest ratings on Rotten Tomatoes, numerous cinema enthusiasts have argued that it remains exceptional regardless. One viewer said: “Severely underrated! This film is exceptional! The story, acting, cinematic elements etc etc are brilliant. Not to mention the beautiful soundtrack, that pulls on your emotions. A masterpiece.”

Another contributor said: “This movie is spectacular and deserves more. I wish that Maximus hasn’t died because he was an excellent character and could’ve been great in the second movie, but other than that it has a good story with good characters and an great villain. This movie is definitely one of the best movies out there.”

Gladiator is on BBC2 at 10pm tonight, Sunday November 30.