Vũ Đàm Linh
(Mazerlin)
New Member
[Maximus is shown at the main gate to the arena on horseback. The last two chariots are lined up coming directly toward him. He points with his sword to his right and commands, "Single column!" He points with his sword to his left and commands, "Single column!" ? The Barbarians go to the outside of each chariot, the right and left respectively and begin to engage the chariots' occupants. Maximus roars as he charges down the middle. He beheads the Legionnaire on his right with a sweeping blow. With a backhand blow, he beheads the Legionnaire on his left. Juba and Hagen drag the drivers out of their chariots and kill them with their own swords. Proximo is shown, thrilled at the win of his gladiators.]
[Having won the battle, Maximus is shown in triumph, again in front of the main gate, as his beautiful white horse pirouettes into position. Maximus raises his sword in victory as the cheers from the Barbarians and crowd explode. Juba's victorious cheer is heard. Maximus rides forward and tosses back with a flip, his sword, snatching up a spear imbedded in the ground. He rides toward the imperial box and stops in front of it. Maximus raises the spear to shoulder height. His hand grips and relaxes on the handle of the spear as he appears to be looking for the opportunity to kill Commodus but the aim is not clear. Commodus is seen talking to Cassius.]
[In the Emperor's box.] COMMODUS: My history's a little hazy Cassius, but shouldn't the Barbarians lose the battle of Carthage??!!
CASSIUS: Yes, Sire. Forgive me, Sire.
COMMODUS: No, I rather enjoy surprises. Who is he?
CASSIUS: They call him the Spaniard, Sire.
COMMODUS: I think I'll meet him.
CASSIUS: Yes, Sire.
[Disappointed that he cannot kill Commodus with his spear, he tosses the spear away, dismounts and joins the gladiators. Praetorian enter the arena. Not understanding why the guards enter, the gladiators stand ready to defend themselves.]
CHIEF PRAETORIAN: Drop your weapons.
[Maximus nods to the gladiators and they drop their weapons.]
PRAETORIAN: Gladiator, the Emperor has asked for you.
MAXIMUS: I'm at the Emperor's service.
[Commodus enters the arena. Maximus eyes an arrow in the dirt amongst the bloodied debris and kneels to pick it up. The gladiators follow Maximus' action and also kneel as Commodus approaches, instructing the gladiators to "Rise, rise." Lucius enters behind Commodus and Maximus looks disappointed. He does not want to attempt an attack on Commodus with the boy so close.]
COMMODUS: Your fame is well deserved, Spaniard. I don't think there has ever been a gladiator to match you. As for this young man [Commodus cradling Lucius in front of him], he insists you are Hector reborn, or was it Hercules. Why doesn't the hero reveal himself and tell us all your real name. You do have a name...?
MAXIMUS: My name is gladiator.
[Maximus slowly turns away from Commodus and begins to walk back to the other gladiators.]
COMMODUS: How dare you show your back to me. SLAVE! You will remove your helmet and tell me your name... [The Praetorian take a ready-stand, and the gladiators, without weapons, move forward ready to fight with Maximus. Maximus stops, takes a deep breath, removes his helmet, and turns to face Commodus.]
MAXIMUS: My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius. Commander of the armies of the North, general of the Felix Legions, loyal servant to the true emperor Marcus Aurelius, father to a murdered son, husband to a murdered wife, and I will have my vengeance in this life or the next.
[Commodus is clearly in shock and without words. Quintus stands ready. Commodus stumbles in his actions, slightly turning to Quintus as though seeking help. Quintus orders "Arms" and the Praetorian pull their swords. Meanwhile, at Caesar's box, Lucilla has risen to her feet in disbelief at the sight of Maximus, relieved that he is still alive.]
CROWD: Live, Live, Live, Live...!
COMMODUS: Shhh! [--in an effort to calm the crowd. Commodus raises his hand, struggling to give the thumbs up for he would much prefer to give the thumbs down. Extending his thumb up, to the pleasure and cheers of the crowd, Commodus turns and leaves, sending a look to Maximus as though to say, this is not over. The Praetorian leave, as well. Maximus looks at Quintus, holds his fist to his heart and slightly bows his head, acknowledging an old friend, an old soldier. Quintus stares back and slowly backs away from Maximus.]
[As he's done in all his victories, Maximus extends his arm up over his head, raising his helmet to the roaring cheers of the gladiators and the crowd. Maximus and the other gladiators leave the arena to be returned to the underground cells. They are lowered on the platform as the other gladiators salute with cheers the winning "Barbarians", and in particular, Maximus. Their shouts of "Maximus, Maximus, Maximus" cause the deafening cheers to echo throughout. Maximus stands in the midst of all the gladiators who triumphantly fought and beat the Legionnaires. A slightly smaller man, yet appearing larger than all.]
[SCENE CHANGES back to the Palace where Commodus is signing papers. Lucilla walks in. Without looking up, Commodus asks Lucilla, Why is he still alive?]
LUCILLA: I don't know.
COMMODUS: He shouldn't be alive. This vexes me. I am terribly vexed. [He sits back in his chair.] I did what I had to do. Had father had his way, the empire would have been torn apart. You do see that?
LUCILLA [quiety murmurs]: Yes.
COMMODUS: What did you feel when you saw him?
LUCILLA: [Holding back emotion, she replies,] I felt nothing.
COMMODUS: He wounded you deeply, didn't he?
LUCILLA: No more than I wounded him.
COMMODUS: They lied to me in Germania. They told me he was dead. If they lie to me they don't respect me. If they don't respect me then how can they ever love me?
LUCILLA: Then you must let the legions know that treachery will not go unpunished.
COMMODUS: Poor, Sister, I wouldn't want to be your enemy.
LUCILLA [pauses and then asks]: What will you do?
[Commodus looks back saying nothing, holding his finger to his lips as though to say, "Shhhh".]
[SCENE CHANGE to the cells where the gladiators are. Maximus is taken by two guards from his cell to another where he is chained by his wrists to the wall. The guards leave and out from a dark corner appears Lucilla, as she moves toward Maximus]
LUCILLA: Rich matrons pay well to be pleasured by the bravest champions.
MAXIMUS [Viciously responds]: I knew your brother would send assassins. I didn't realize he would send his best. [He charges at her, the chains restraining him.]
LUCILLA: Maximus, he doesn't know.
MAXIMUS: My family was burned and crucified while they were still alive.
LUCILLA: I knew nothing....
MAXIMUS: Don't lie to me! [He turns away slightly.]
LUCILLA [moves closer]: I wept for them. [Maximus quickly reaches out and grabs her by the throat.]
MAXIMUS: As you wept for your father? As you wept for your father?
LUCILLA: I have been living in a prison of fear since that day. To be unable to mourn your father for fear of your brother. To live in terror every moment of every day, because your son is heir to the throne. Oh, I have wept.
MAXIMUS: My son was innocent.
LUCILLA: So is mine. Must my son die, too, before you will trust me? [Maximus releases his hold on her throat.]
MAXIMUS: What does it matter if I trust you or not?
LUCILLA: The gods have spared you. Don't you understand? Today I saw a slave become more powerful than the Emperor of Rome.
MAXIMUS: The gods have spared me? I am at their mercy with the power only to amuse a mob.
LUCILLA: That is power. The mob is Rome. And while Commodus controls them he controls everything. Listen to me. My brother has enemies, most of all in the senate. But while the people follow him, no one would dare stand up to him until you.
MAXIMUS: They oppose him, yet they do nothing.
LUCILLA: There are some politicians who have dedicated their lives to Rome. One man above all. If I can arrange it, will you meet him?
MAXIMUS: Do you not understand? I may die in this cell tonight or in the arena tomorrow. I am a slave! What possible difference can I make?
LUCILLA: This man wants what you want.
MAXIMUS [Roars back,]: Then have him kill Commodus!
LUCILLA: : I knew a man once. A noble man. A man of principle, who loved my father and my father loved him. This man served Rome well.
MAXIMUS: That man is gone. Your brother did his work well.
LUCILLA: Let me help you.
MAXIMUS [lowers his voice to nearly a whisper and steps closer to Lucilla]: Yes. You can help me. Forget you ever knew me. Never come here again. Guard! The lady has finished with me. [Lucilla's eyes slightly tear as she stands helplessly, staring at Maximus.]
[SCENE CHANGE to the gladiator school. Gladiators sit at a table playing a game with a cobra snake. Elsewhere, Maximus, Juba and Hagen sit together. Juba and Hagen eat their bread and beans.]
HAGEN: Maximus, you commanded legions? Had many victories?
MAXIMUS: Yes.
HAGEN: In Germania?
MAXIMUS: In many countries.
[The cook calls out "General" and Maximus goes to him where he is handed a bowl of beans. Maximus returns to the table. Sensing the watchful eye of Juba, he looks up to see Juba who cautions Maximus by slightly shaking his head "no". Maximus holds back and does not eat the food. Hagen, seeing that Maximus is cautious about the food, takes his own spoon and dips it into Maximus' bowl, and then places the spoon in his own mouth. Hagen suddenly begins to gasp and choke, he grabs his throat as Maximus and Juba look on in shock. Hagen then begins to laugh. Juba and Maximus laugh with relief. Maximus returns to his food but looks up at Juba with a look of doubt...not for that moment but for what lies ahead.]
JUBA: You have a great name. He must kill your name before he kills you.
[SCENE CHANGE - at the Colosseum, as the senators are gathering for the upcoming fight. Senator Gracchus is about to be seated.]
FALCO: Senator Gracchus. I don't often see you enjoying the pleasures of the vulgar crowd.
GRACCHUS: Well. I do not pretend to be a man of the people, Senator. But I do try to be a man for the people.
[Wagons enter the arena tossing bread and fruit at the crowd as they cheer. Caesar enters the arena, accepting the cheers from the crowd. Atop in the stands, stands Cassius adorned in red wig, as he introduces the upcoming fight while the crowd calls out, "Caesar, Caesar, Caesar."]
CASSIUS: People of Rome. On the 4th day of Antioch, we can celebrate the 64th day of the games. And in his majestic charity, the Emperor has deigned this day to favour the people of Rome with an historical final match. Returning to the Colosseum today after five years in retirement, Caesar, is pleased to bring you the only undefeated champion in Roman history, the legendary...Tigris of Gaul!
[Out from the tunnel comes Tigris on his grand chariot, wearing a full headed, silver helmet, entering the arena to the cheers of the crowd. And in the crowd Cicero, Maximus' servant from the Germania battle, sits anxiously, waiting to see Maximus.]
[SCENE CHANGE to the bowels of the Colosseum where the gladiators are held as they wait their turn in the arena. Maximus stands in the tunnel, shadows cast darkly upon him, as he practices, agile as he is, with his sword awaiting his entrance to the arena. Proximo, standing at the bottom of the tunnel with the other fighters, calls up to Maximus and Maximus calls back.]
PROXIMO: He knows too well how to manipulate a mob.
MAXIMUS: Marcus Aurelius had a dream that was Rome, Proximo. This is not it. This is not it!
PROXIMO: Marcus Aurelius is dead, Maximus. We mortals are but shadows and dust, shadows and dust, Maximus.
[Maximus stands ready to enter the arena, the gates are opened and the voice of the announcer, Cassius, can be heard, "Representing the training lyceum of Antonius Proximo, Caesar is proud to give you Aelius Maximus." With that, Maximus walks out onto the arena floor, shield in one hand, sword in the other. The crowd cheers. Proximo stops as he hears his name announced in the Colosseum, bringing back memories.]
[Commodus, Lucilla, Lucius and Quintus watch from the Emperor's box as Maximus and Tigris are introduced to the crowd. On the arena floor, Maximus plants his sword in the sand and bends down in his ritual way, to collect in his hands a sampling of dirt. Cicero is again seen in the stands, this time, slightly smiling, relieved to see the General. At the Emperor's box, Lucilla holds back all emotion. The crowd calling out, "Maximus, Maximus, Maximus."]
COMMODUS: They embrace him like he's one of their own.
LUCILLA: The mob is fickle brother. He'll be forgotten in a month.
COMMODUS: No, much sooner than that. It has been arranged.
[Back on the arena floor, Tigris turns to Caesar's box, with swords crossed, he bows, "We who are about to die salute you." Maximus stands by, showing no salute whatsoever? . As Maximus gets ready to fight, the large doors to the arena are thrown open, surprising Maximus. From each door emerges a team of men, who run into the arena. Each team picks up a chain from the sand. Maximus becomes distracted. Tigris kicks sand into Maximus' face and begins the fight with his sword followed immediately with a fierce kick to the chest. Maximus is thrown to the ground and rolls out of the way of an opening trap door as large tiger jumps out?, pouncing at the fighting gladiators. Maximus is now having to escape the claws of the tigers as he battles Tigris. Another tiger pounces at Maximus who deflects the attack with his shield. Maximus' roars can be heard as he does battle. In the background can be heard "loose, loose, loose" and "pull, pull, pull" as the handlers coordinate their efforts in handling each of the tigers that are now on the arena floor growling and charging at Maximus. As the fight continues, each fighter gives fierceful blows to the other. The trap doors open as Maximus gets closer and the tigers jump out, swiping at Maximus with their large paws. He falls to the ground and makes a full roll to get away from the tigers]
[Maximus manages to disarm Tigris with a fierce blow of his shield to his face, switching his sword from one hand to the other, Maximus stands ready to finish off Tigris. Suddenly, a fourth tiger jumps out of a trap door and jumps at Maximus. In that split second, Maximus turns and the tiger is speared with his sword. Maximus is thrown to the sand as the large beast lays atop him. Maximus stabs the beast repeatedly, killing it. The crowds cheer wildly. Tigris moves in for an attack. Maximus, on his back with the beast still on him, manages to grab Tigris' axe, again hits Tigris' face shield and with great force and a fierce roar spikes Tigris in the foot. Tigris bends over in pain, blood pouring from the opening of his mask. Maximus stands and kicks Tigris' chest, knocking him to the ground. He is finished! The crowd cheers "kill, kill, kill". With ax in hand, standing over the fallen Tigris, he slides open the silver mask exposing Tigris' bloodied face. ]
[Maximus looks up at Commodus. The Emperor is clearly disappointed that his plan has failed. Commodus stands, arm extended and slowly shows a "thumb down". Maximus lifts the axe over his head, ready to kill Tigris then suddenly tosses the axe aside--in defiance of Commodus but, also, finished with the killing. The senators sit in their box, silent, watching each other in astonishment. From the crowd can be heard "Maximus, Maximus the merciful." Commodus displays a hint of a false smile as though to prevent the crowd from truly knowing the hate he feels for Maximus and to guard himself from the knowledge of his failure. Commodus leaves the box.]
[Maximus is about to exit the arena, the Praetorian enter and encircle him as Commodus enters the arena to boos from the crowd and approaches Maximus.]
COMMODUS: What am I going to do with you, you simply won't...die. Are we so different, you and I? You take life when you have to, as I do. [Exhausted from the fight, Maximus coldly stares at him.]
MAXIMUS: I only have one more life to take and then it is done.
COMMODUS: Then take it now.
[Maximus glances up at Lucilla as she sits in the Emperor's box, and then to the Praetorian as they stand guard around the two. Maximus calmly turns to walk away....]
COMMODUS: They tell me your son [Maximus slowly turns back to him] squealed like a girl when they nailed him to the cross.... [the pain of reliving the heinous act washes across his face]. And your wife, moaned like a whore when they ravaged her again, and again, and again.
MAXIMUS [exhibiting extreme but calm restraint]: The time for honouring yourself will soon be at an end, Highness.
[Maximus slowly turns away from Commodus, the Praetorian step aside and let Maximus pass. He leaves the arena. Commodus is left with a look of surprise.]
CROWD: Maximus, Maximus, Maximus....
[SCENE CHANGE to the streets as Maximus is taken by two guards, back to the gladiator school. Proximo follows behind, shielded under his large umbrella. They pass through the streets adjacent the Colosseum. A large crowd of fans are waiting for Maximus, chanting his name and waving banners displaying "Maximvs". In the crowd is Cicero. Cicero tries to catch the attention of Maximus, his arm stretched out, holding a small leather pouch, and crying out his name.]
CICERO: General! General! General!
[At last, Maximus sees him and with joy, calls back "Cicero!" Cicero runs through the crowd calling after him, trying desperately to get closer to his master. Maximus struggles to get near but the guards are staying close, holding back the crowds.]
MAXIMUS: Where are you camped?
CICERO: Ostia !
[Finally, after several attempts, Cicero hides behind a prostitute who is also vying for Maximus' attention. This time, Maximus gets close to Cicero and they reach out to each other.]
MAXIMUS: Tell the men the general lives. Find me, find me! [The guards call out "Go. Move along. Move along." As they pull Maximus away from Cicero, he manages to give Maximus the pouch he was carrying. Maximus hides it inside his palms.]
[Later, in his cell, Maximus eagerly opens the leather pouch handed to him by Cicero, inside he finds the two figurines of his wife and son. He looks at them longingly, kissing tenderly the figurine of his wife, as though she were there to receive his affection and love. Juba approaches.]
JUBA: Can they hear you?
[Maximus turns his head towards Juba, his eyes moist from the happiness of his reunion with his family through the figurines and responds to Juba.]
MAXIMUS: Who?
JUBA: Your family, in the after life?
MAXIMUS: Oh, yes.
JUBA: What do you say to them ?
MAXIMUS: To my boy, I tell him I will see him again soon, and to keep his heels down when he's riding his horse. [Maximus continues with a smile as he grasps the figurines tighter,] To my wife...that is not your business.
[Together they laugh. Maximus holds tight his belongings, sending a look of victory to Juba. A look of peace settles on his face as he clutches the figurines.]
[SCENE CHANGE - back at the Palace, Commodus, in a child-like pouty fashion, is talking with Senator Falco.]
COMMODUS: And now they love Maximus for his mercy, so I can't just kill him or it makes me even more unmerciful. The whole thing is like a great...nightmare.
FALCO: He is defying you. His every victory is an act of defiance, the mob sees this, and so do the Senate. Every day he lives they grow bolder. Kill him!
COMMODUS: No! I will not make a martyr of him.
FALCO: I have been told of a certain sea snake which has a very unusual method of attracting its prey. It will lie at the bottom of the ocean as if wounded, then its enemies will approach and yet it will lie quite still and then its enemies will take little bites of it and yet it remains still.
COMMODUS: So, we will lie still and let our enemies come to us and nibble. .... Have every senator followed.
[SCENE CHANGE - The following day, gladiators are training inside the gladiator school. Maximus walks through the camp, making his way to a gate where the crowds watch the gladiators on display. Maximus passes a guard who calls him by name. He nods in recognition of the guard. Maximus reaches the gate where Cicero is waiting. Placing his hand behind Cicero's head, clasping his hand with the other, they talk.]
MAXIMUS: Cicero, my old friend! I thought I had seen you for the last time.
CICERO: We thought you were dead!
MAXIMUS: Close. How long have the men been in Ostia?
CICERO: All winter.
MAXIMUS: How do they look?
CICERO: Fat and bored.
MAXIMUS: Who is in command?
CICERO: Some fool from Rome
MAXIMUS: How soon do you think they could be ready to fight?
CICERO: For you, tomorrow.
MAXIMUS: I need you to do something for me.
[SCENE CHANGE -- In the city at the bazaar, as Cicero waits, anxiously looking about the street, a children's play is underway -- A Cassius impersonator entertains the crowd, "Come! Be seated. If you haven't been in the arena, you can see it from here. The Giant Maximus is defeating our Emperor Commodus. What are we do to?" The crowd laughs and cheers.]
[Suddenly, Cicero eyes Lucilla as she is carried on her litter through the crowd. He runs to meet them. ]
CICERO: M'lady! I served your father at Vindebona!
GUARD: Back!
CICERO: M'lady, I served your father at Vindebona.
GUARD: Back!
CICERO: I then served the General Maximus. I serve him still!
LUCILLA [to her escort]: Stop! Stop! Stand back!
CICERO kneeling beside her, whispering]: The General sends word, he will meet your politician.
LUCILLA [gives him two golden coins]: For your loyalty, soldier.
CICERO: Thank you M'lady.
[SCENE CHANGE - Gladiator cells. Maximus has been brought to a central room by Proximo.]
LUCILLA [commanding Proximo]: Leave us. [Maximus sits as Lucilla turns to an adjacent room as she calls out,] Senator Gracchus.
GRACCHUS: [enters the room]: General. I hope my coming here today is evidence enough that you can trust me.
MAXIMUS: The Senate is with you?
GRACCHUS: The Senate? Yes I can speak for them.
MAXIMUS: You can buy my freedom and smuggle me out of Rome?
GRACCHUS: To what end?
MAXIMUS: Get me outside the city walls. Have fresh horses ready to take me to Ostia. My army is encamped there. By nightfall of the second day I shall return at the head of 5,000 men.
LUCILLA: But the legions all have new commanders, Loyal to Commodus.
MAXIMUS: When my men see me alive you shall see where their loyalties lie.
GRACCHUS: This is madness. No Roman army has entered the capital in 100 years. I will not trade one dictatorship for another.
MAXIMUS: The time for half measures and talk is over, Senator. ...
GRACCHUS: So, after your glorious coup, what then? You will take your 5,000 warriors and leave?
MAXIMUS: I will leave. The soldiers will stay for your protection, under the command of the senate.
GRACCHUS: So. Once all of Rome is yours, you'll just give it back to the people. Tell me why?
MAXIMUS [he turns to Lucilla] : Because that was the last wish of a dying man. [He turns back to Gracchus.] I will kill Commodus, the fate of Rome, I leave to you.
GRACCHUS: Marcus Aurelius trusted you. His daughter trusts you. I will trust you. But we have little time. Give me two days and I will buy your freedom. And you, you stay alive. Or I will be dead. Now I must go. [Gracchus extends his hand to shake Maximus' as he rises.]
[SCENE CHANGE to Proximo's quarters where Maximus is speaking with him...]
PROXIMO: This won't work. The emperor knows too much. And as for me, it's becoming dangerous. [A soldier is seen outside, attempting to overhear their talk.]
MAXIMUS: You will be paid on my return. I give you my word.
PROXIMO: Your word! What if you don't return?
MAXIMUS: Do you remember what it was to have trust, Proximo?
PROXIMO: Trust!? Who am I to trust?
MAXIMUS: I will kill Commodus.
PROXIMO: Why would I want that? He makes me rich. Oh, I, ... I know that you are a man of your word, General. I know that you would die for honour. You would die for Rome. You would die for the memory of your ancestors. But I, on the other hand, I am an entertainer. Guard!
MAXIMUS [as he leaves Proximo, he turns back to say...] : He killed the man who set you free.
[SCENE CHANGE - Senator Gracchus is seen at his home feeding chickens and ducks. A servant is near and warns the senator, "Praetorians, Master" as he sees their approach. Gracchus sends the servant away. The Praetorian arrest Gracchus.]
[SCENE CHANGE - Lucilla walks into the Palace. Commodus sits quietly and as she attempts to leave the room he stops her.]
COMMODUS: Where have you been? I sent for you.
LUCILLA: Please, brother. What troubles you?
COMMODUS: Does Gracchus have a new lover?
LUCILLA: I don't know.
COMMODUS: I thought you had seen him. He infects everyone like a putrid fever. For the health of Rome, the Senate must be bled and he will be bleed too, very soon.
LUCILLA: But not tonight.
COMMODUS: Do you remember what our father once said? [He moves to sit on the edge of the bed.] It's a dream, a frightful dream...life is. Do you think that is true? [Lucilla moves closer and sits beside her brother. A concerned, sympathetic expression covers her face.]
LUCILLA: I don't know.
COMMODUS: I think it is. And I have only you to share it with. [Lucilla comes closer, to comfort him. Commodus lays his head against her shoulder. He then leans her back and lays her on the bed. With terror in her eyes, she lays still, fearful of what might happen. Commodus gently puts his finger to her mouth and tells her, "Open your mouth". Hesitantly she opens her mouth slightly as he places his finger to her lips and then to his. He presses his head to her shoulder and says, "You know I love you." She replies, "And I love you." She lays still, her fear mounting at the thought of what may occur but Commodus soon lays his head down and falls asleep. Lucilla gently and quietly gets up and leaves. Waiting outside the room, stand her guards who follow her out.]
[SCENE CHANGE - back at Proximo's as he brings Lucilla to Maximus' cell. Proximo barks orders to the other gladiators to leave, "Get out, move!" They look to Maximus for approval and he gives it to them with a nod of the head -- the gladiators leave. Proximo turns to Maximus, "Congratulations, General. You've got very persuasive friends", and he turns to leave. Lucilla enters the cell.]
LUCILLA: My brother has had Gracchus arrested. We daren't wait any longer. You must leave tonight. [Maximus moves closer to Lucilla.] Proximo will come at midnight and take you to the gate. Your servant Cicero will be waiting with horses.
MAXIMUS: You have done all this?
LUCILLA: Yes.
MAXIMUS: You risk too much.
LUCILLA: I have much to pay for.
MAXIMUS: You have nothing to pay for. You love your son. You are strong for him.
LUCILLA: I am tired of being strong. My brother hates all the world and you, most of all.
MAXIMUS: Because your father chose me.
LUCILLA: No, because my father loved you ... and because I loved you.
MAXIMUS: A long time ago. [Tenderly taking her hand, kisses it.]
LUCILLA: Was I very different then?
MAXIMUS [With a slight smile, gently stroking her face]: You laughed more.
LUCILLA: I have felt alone all my life, except with you. [Maximus breaths deeply.] .... I must go.
MAXIMUS: Yes. [They exchange a long tender kiss.]?
[SCENE CHANGE - at the Palace, Lucius playing swords with the tall African servants, "there, there, there, there and there, and I've got you," proclaims Lucius. Commodus is awakened from his sleep, goes to Lucius and takes a wooden sword from the servant. He begins to play swords with Lucius.]
COMMODUS: Isn't it late to be playing legionnaire?
LUCIUS: I am not a legionnaire.
COMMODUS: Not a legionnaire?
LUCIUS: I am a gladiator.
COMMODUS: A gladiator? Gladiators only fight in the games. Wouldn't you prefer to be a brave Roman warrior like Julius Caesar?
LUCIUS: I am Maximus, the savior of Rome. [Commodus stops and kneels in front of Lucius. The wooden sword scrapes the marble floor as it slips.]
COMMODUS: The savior of Rome. And who said that? [Lucius whispers in his ear. Commodus holds him tighter and tighter as he hears.]
[SCENE CHANGE - Lucilla returns to the palace and asks her servant where Lucius is. She replies, "He's with the Emperor, M'lady." She quickly leaves in search of Lucius. She walks to Commodus' room and as she approaches, she can hear Commodus talking with Lucius. Lucilla slows her pace to listen and then quickly walks to join in the midst of their talk.]
LUCIUS: ...she couldn't have.
COMMODUS: Yes, she did. She took it from a basket, pressed it to her breast, right here above the heart. .... hissss
LUCIUS: And it bit her in the breast?!
COMMODUS: Yes. You see, Lucius, sometimes royal ladies behave very strangely and do very odd things in the name of love.
LUCIUS: I think it's silly.
COMMODUS: So do I, so do I.
[Commodus sees Lucilla enter the room.]
COMMODUS: Sister...join us. I've been reading to dear Lucius.
LUCIUS: I've been reading, too.
COMMODUS: Yes, he's a very clever little boy. He'll make a grand Emperor one day.
[Lucilla looks astonished, fearful at what may be occurring.]
COMMODUS: We've been reading about the great Marc Anthony and his adventures in Egypt.
LUCIUS: And the Queen killed herself with a snake!
COMMODUS [to Lucius]: And just wait until you hear what happened to our other ancestors! If you're very good, tomorrow night I'll tell you the story of Emperor Claudius. He was betrayed, by those closest to him ... by his own blood ... they whispered in dark corners and went out late at night and conspired and conspired.
[Lucilla is nearly in tears as her fear heightens.]
COMMODUS: But the Emperor knew they were up to something. He knew they were busy little bees. And one night he sat down with one of them and he looked at her and he said, "Tell me what you have been doing, busy little bee, or I shall strike down those dearest to you. You shall watch as I bathe in their blood." And the emperor was heartbroken. The little bee had wounded him more deeply than anyone else could ever have done. And what do you think happened then, Lucius?
LUCIUS: I don't know Uncle.
COMMODUS [looking at Lucilla]: The little bee told him everything.
[Tears slowly roll down Lucilla's face.]
[Back at the gladiator school...Maximus begins to collect his things, placing the figurines of his wife and son into their leather pouch, slipping his ring on his finger. Outside, Praetorian guards, some on foot, others on horseback, are seen as they approach. Meanwhile, assassins are releasing a red coral snake into the bed of Senator Gaius as he and his wife sleep. The Praetorian have reached Proximo's quarters; stand outside the gate and call out, "Open in the name of the Emperor. Open the gates, Proximo. Open the gates. Do you want to die, old man?"Maximus and Proximo hear the cries and look out at the guards. Proximo walks to Maximus, holding a large ring of keys and says, Here. Everything is prepared. It seems you have won your freedom. [Proximo hands Maximus the ring of keys for his get away.]
MAXIMUS: Proximo, are you in danger of becoming a good man.
PROXIMO: Hahh!
MAXIMUS: Juba. [as Maximus hands him the ring of keys to the cells.]
[Outside the guards continue calling out, "All enemies of the Emperor die!" They also call out "Maximus". The guards pull the gate down and out of the way as they enter the school.]
[Meanwhile, the gladiators gather around Maximus to listen to his orders.]
MAXIMUS: I only need moments so you need not be careless with your lives. If you don't want to be any part of this go back to your cells.
HAGEN: We will wait here for you, Maximus. [The gladiators call out,] "Strength and Honour".
[Maximus turns to Juba and says "Strength and Honour" as the two friends gently butt foreheads. Maximus begins to make his get away as the gladiators battle with the Roman guards. The gladiators fight bravely. Hagen is killed when several guards stab him with their swords, and several arrows pierce his body. Juba is seen fighting but escapes harm. In Proximo's quarters, the Praetorian run up the stairs to his room. Proximo stands with his back to the door, holding his Rudius and says, "Shadows and dust". The guards stab him to his death. Meanwhile, Maximus makes his way through the tunnel to the outside. Along the way, he finds his armour and sword and puts them on. Once outside, he sees a rider standing still. He whistles and the rider, Cicero, recognizes the whistle and shouts "Maximus". At that moment, his horse bolts and Cicero is hanged by the rope around his neck, his body sways and bumps into the tree. Maximus runs to him and lifts him. Cicero says, "I'm sorry." The Praetorian shoot arrows and kill Cicero as Maximus cries out an anguished roar "Noooo!" Maximus is surrounded by the Praetorian.]
[SCENE CHANGE - back at the palace. Senator Falco approaches Commodus as he stands looking over the city, flocks of birds rise up and over the Colosseum. Falco reports, "It is done." Commodus slowly turns to Falco.]
COMMODUS: And what of my nephew and what of his mother? Shall they share her lover's fate or should I be merciful? Commodus the merciful. Lucius will stay with me now and if his mother so much as looks at me in a manner that displeases me, he will die. And if she decides to be noble and take her own life, he will die. And, as for you, [turning to Lucilla] you will love me as I have loved you. You will provide me with an heir of pure blood so that Commodus and his progeny will rule for 1,000 years. Am I not merciful? [He gets close to her face and tries to kiss her but Lucilla turns away. Commodus pinches her jaw with his fingers, turning her face towards him and screams] AM I NOT MERCIFUL?! [Tears slowly come down Lucilla's face.]
[SCENE CHANGE - at the Colosseum. The crowd chants "Maximus, Maximus, Maximus" The petals of red flowers float in the air onto the sands of the arena floor.... Below, Maximus is chained, arms extended out and above his shoulders in a fashion that prevents him from defending himself or combating anyone. Commodus enters the cell and walks to Maximus. The other prisoners (Gracchus, Juba, other gladiators) are watching as he enters. Commodus, dressed in his white leather armour, approaches the chained Maximus who is bruised and weary.]
COMMODUS [In a whisper]: Maximus. Maximus. Maximus. They call for you. The general who became a slave. The slave who became a gladiator. The gladiator who defied an emperor. A striking story. Now the people want to know how the story ends. Only a famous death will do. What could be more glorious than to challenge the emperor himself in the great arena. [Commodus places his finger alongside Maximus' face, stroking it as he speaks.]
MAXIMUS: You would fight me?
COMMODUS: Why not? Do you think I am afraid?
MAXIMUS: I think you have been afraid all your life.
COMMODUS: Unlike Maximus the invincible, who knows no fear?
MAXIMUS [laughing]: I knew a man who once said, death smiles at us all. All that man can do is smile back.
COMMODUS: I wonder. Did your friend smile at his own death?
MAXIMUS: You must know. He was your father.
COMMODUS: You loved my father, I know. But so did I. That makes us brothers, doesn't it? [Commodus embraces Maximus and with one cowardly, fierce thrust with his dagger that has been hidden in his sleeve, stabs Maximus in the left side and then kisses him on the neck. Blood immediately runs from the wound. Maximus lets out his breath as the puncture releases the life from his body.] Smile for me now, brother!
COMMODUS [to Quintus]: Strap on his armour. Conceal the wound.
[SCENE CHANGE - the trap door to the arena opens as the lift rises, encircled with the Praetorian as they stand behind their black shields. In the middle, the white clad Commodus, gazing upwardly, basking in the sun stands next to the wounded, dying Maximus dressed in his black body armour.? All the while, Quintus fearfully staring at Maximus. As they reach the floor of the arena, the Praetorian take their ring formation. Maximus stumbles to the center, holding his left arm close to his body protecting his wound. He slowly stoops to pick up a handful of sand, with a watchful eye on Quintus. Maximus rubs the sand between his hands and reaches for his sword but Quintus tosses it away, out of Maximus' reach?. Maximus painfully moves to where the sword has been tossed, picks it up and immediately charges at Commodus. The two do battle. Maximus roars as he attacks Commodus, but Commodus does well and attacks back. Maximus manages to knock Commodus' legs out from underneath him who falls flat on his back to the ground. He quickly gets up and strikes Maximus with all his might. Maximus swings his sword back at Commodus with great force. With the swing of his sword, as Maximus spins back and Commodus cuts Maximus' leg. The wound begins to bleed. Maximus stumbles but maintains his balance and charges at Commodus cutting his arm, causing Commodus to drop his sword. Commodus stands unarmed.]
[Maximus, losing strength and gravely suffering from the dagger wound inflicted by Commodus while earlier chained, begins to drift into the after life -- he sees the gate to his home, he reaches out in an effort to push the portal open, his sword dropping from his hand. Meanwhile, Commodus is calling Quintus for his sword, "Sword, give me your sword," but Quintus does not comply. Commodus then turns to the Praetorian, calling out, "Sword". The guards begin to pull their swords when Quintus quickly orders them to "sheath your swords". They comply. Commodus again reaches for his hidden dagger? and Maximus quickly returns to this life, unarmed but for his strength and determination. Commodus charges at Maximus with his dagger. Maximus ferociously strikes Commodus with his fist punching with great force, then butting his head with his elbow. Commodus strikes back but is no match for Maximus. Maximus grabs hold of Commodus. With one hand cupping the back of Commodus' head, the other forces the dagger back into Commodus. All the while, Commodus punches back as he tries relentlessly to fight off Maximus. Maximus slowly plunges the dagger into Commodus' throat, deeper and deeper until it can go no further. Commodus, his breath leaving his body, falls to the ground.
[The fight over, Maximus begins to once again drift to the after life. He reaches out his bloodied hand, to push open the portal that leads to his family, to his home, but is once again, brought back when Quintus calls to him, "Maximus, Maximus".]
MAXIMUS : Quintus, free my men. Senator Gracchus is to be reinstated. There was a dream that was Rome, it shall be realized. These are the wishes of Marcus Aurelius. [Quintus calls out to the guards, "Free the prisoners, ...go!" ]
[Maximus stands, unsteady, as the vision of the wheat field once again comes to him but this time it is more clear. His wife? and son are waiting for him. Suddenly he falls as he loses consciousness, flat on his back with a tremendous force, hard like a tree.
[Lucilla runs into the arena, dropping to her knees at his side and calling to him "Maximus!" Maximus gazes up and tells her, "Lucius is safe." Lucilla looks at him adoringly as Maximus lays still and responds, "Go to them". Again, Maximus sees the vision of his home, tall cedars beyond the gate, as the sound of childish laughter is heard and sees the wheat field as his wife and son stand along the road, looking to him. His boy runs towards him as he walks through the tall wheat -- Now he is free. With her hand, she closes his eyes, his face calm and at peace as he leaves this world. Lucilla adds, "You are home."? Grieving, with one hand on her head, she quickly regains her presence, stands and turns to Senator Gracchus and the crowd.]
LUCILLA: Is Rome worth one good man's life? We believed it once. Make us believe it again. He was a soldier of Rome. Honour him.
GRACCHUS [Comes forward and asks]: Who will help me carry him?
[Many gather to lift Maximus and carry him from the arena. Commodus' body is left alone, on the sand.]
[SCENE CHANGE as Juba is hallowing a place in the blood stained sand on the spot where Maximus died. Juba unfolds the small leather pouch and removes the statuettes belonging to Maximus of his wife and son and gently places them in their resting place, smoothing over the sand to secure their place and proclaims:]
JUBA: Now we are free. I will see you again. But not yet, not yet....
~ The End ~
[Having won the battle, Maximus is shown in triumph, again in front of the main gate, as his beautiful white horse pirouettes into position. Maximus raises his sword in victory as the cheers from the Barbarians and crowd explode. Juba's victorious cheer is heard. Maximus rides forward and tosses back with a flip, his sword, snatching up a spear imbedded in the ground. He rides toward the imperial box and stops in front of it. Maximus raises the spear to shoulder height. His hand grips and relaxes on the handle of the spear as he appears to be looking for the opportunity to kill Commodus but the aim is not clear. Commodus is seen talking to Cassius.]
[In the Emperor's box.] COMMODUS: My history's a little hazy Cassius, but shouldn't the Barbarians lose the battle of Carthage??!!
CASSIUS: Yes, Sire. Forgive me, Sire.
COMMODUS: No, I rather enjoy surprises. Who is he?
CASSIUS: They call him the Spaniard, Sire.
COMMODUS: I think I'll meet him.
CASSIUS: Yes, Sire.
[Disappointed that he cannot kill Commodus with his spear, he tosses the spear away, dismounts and joins the gladiators. Praetorian enter the arena. Not understanding why the guards enter, the gladiators stand ready to defend themselves.]
CHIEF PRAETORIAN: Drop your weapons.
[Maximus nods to the gladiators and they drop their weapons.]
PRAETORIAN: Gladiator, the Emperor has asked for you.
MAXIMUS: I'm at the Emperor's service.
[Commodus enters the arena. Maximus eyes an arrow in the dirt amongst the bloodied debris and kneels to pick it up. The gladiators follow Maximus' action and also kneel as Commodus approaches, instructing the gladiators to "Rise, rise." Lucius enters behind Commodus and Maximus looks disappointed. He does not want to attempt an attack on Commodus with the boy so close.]
COMMODUS: Your fame is well deserved, Spaniard. I don't think there has ever been a gladiator to match you. As for this young man [Commodus cradling Lucius in front of him], he insists you are Hector reborn, or was it Hercules. Why doesn't the hero reveal himself and tell us all your real name. You do have a name...?
MAXIMUS: My name is gladiator.
[Maximus slowly turns away from Commodus and begins to walk back to the other gladiators.]
COMMODUS: How dare you show your back to me. SLAVE! You will remove your helmet and tell me your name... [The Praetorian take a ready-stand, and the gladiators, without weapons, move forward ready to fight with Maximus. Maximus stops, takes a deep breath, removes his helmet, and turns to face Commodus.]
MAXIMUS: My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius. Commander of the armies of the North, general of the Felix Legions, loyal servant to the true emperor Marcus Aurelius, father to a murdered son, husband to a murdered wife, and I will have my vengeance in this life or the next.
[Commodus is clearly in shock and without words. Quintus stands ready. Commodus stumbles in his actions, slightly turning to Quintus as though seeking help. Quintus orders "Arms" and the Praetorian pull their swords. Meanwhile, at Caesar's box, Lucilla has risen to her feet in disbelief at the sight of Maximus, relieved that he is still alive.]
CROWD: Live, Live, Live, Live...!
COMMODUS: Shhh! [--in an effort to calm the crowd. Commodus raises his hand, struggling to give the thumbs up for he would much prefer to give the thumbs down. Extending his thumb up, to the pleasure and cheers of the crowd, Commodus turns and leaves, sending a look to Maximus as though to say, this is not over. The Praetorian leave, as well. Maximus looks at Quintus, holds his fist to his heart and slightly bows his head, acknowledging an old friend, an old soldier. Quintus stares back and slowly backs away from Maximus.]
[As he's done in all his victories, Maximus extends his arm up over his head, raising his helmet to the roaring cheers of the gladiators and the crowd. Maximus and the other gladiators leave the arena to be returned to the underground cells. They are lowered on the platform as the other gladiators salute with cheers the winning "Barbarians", and in particular, Maximus. Their shouts of "Maximus, Maximus, Maximus" cause the deafening cheers to echo throughout. Maximus stands in the midst of all the gladiators who triumphantly fought and beat the Legionnaires. A slightly smaller man, yet appearing larger than all.]
[SCENE CHANGES back to the Palace where Commodus is signing papers. Lucilla walks in. Without looking up, Commodus asks Lucilla, Why is he still alive?]
LUCILLA: I don't know.
COMMODUS: He shouldn't be alive. This vexes me. I am terribly vexed. [He sits back in his chair.] I did what I had to do. Had father had his way, the empire would have been torn apart. You do see that?
LUCILLA [quiety murmurs]: Yes.
COMMODUS: What did you feel when you saw him?
LUCILLA: [Holding back emotion, she replies,] I felt nothing.
COMMODUS: He wounded you deeply, didn't he?
LUCILLA: No more than I wounded him.
COMMODUS: They lied to me in Germania. They told me he was dead. If they lie to me they don't respect me. If they don't respect me then how can they ever love me?
LUCILLA: Then you must let the legions know that treachery will not go unpunished.
COMMODUS: Poor, Sister, I wouldn't want to be your enemy.
LUCILLA [pauses and then asks]: What will you do?
[Commodus looks back saying nothing, holding his finger to his lips as though to say, "Shhhh".]
[SCENE CHANGE to the cells where the gladiators are. Maximus is taken by two guards from his cell to another where he is chained by his wrists to the wall. The guards leave and out from a dark corner appears Lucilla, as she moves toward Maximus]
LUCILLA: Rich matrons pay well to be pleasured by the bravest champions.
MAXIMUS [Viciously responds]: I knew your brother would send assassins. I didn't realize he would send his best. [He charges at her, the chains restraining him.]
LUCILLA: Maximus, he doesn't know.
MAXIMUS: My family was burned and crucified while they were still alive.
LUCILLA: I knew nothing....
MAXIMUS: Don't lie to me! [He turns away slightly.]
LUCILLA [moves closer]: I wept for them. [Maximus quickly reaches out and grabs her by the throat.]
MAXIMUS: As you wept for your father? As you wept for your father?
LUCILLA: I have been living in a prison of fear since that day. To be unable to mourn your father for fear of your brother. To live in terror every moment of every day, because your son is heir to the throne. Oh, I have wept.
MAXIMUS: My son was innocent.
LUCILLA: So is mine. Must my son die, too, before you will trust me? [Maximus releases his hold on her throat.]
MAXIMUS: What does it matter if I trust you or not?
LUCILLA: The gods have spared you. Don't you understand? Today I saw a slave become more powerful than the Emperor of Rome.
MAXIMUS: The gods have spared me? I am at their mercy with the power only to amuse a mob.
LUCILLA: That is power. The mob is Rome. And while Commodus controls them he controls everything. Listen to me. My brother has enemies, most of all in the senate. But while the people follow him, no one would dare stand up to him until you.
MAXIMUS: They oppose him, yet they do nothing.
LUCILLA: There are some politicians who have dedicated their lives to Rome. One man above all. If I can arrange it, will you meet him?
MAXIMUS: Do you not understand? I may die in this cell tonight or in the arena tomorrow. I am a slave! What possible difference can I make?
LUCILLA: This man wants what you want.
MAXIMUS [Roars back,]: Then have him kill Commodus!
LUCILLA: : I knew a man once. A noble man. A man of principle, who loved my father and my father loved him. This man served Rome well.
MAXIMUS: That man is gone. Your brother did his work well.
LUCILLA: Let me help you.
MAXIMUS [lowers his voice to nearly a whisper and steps closer to Lucilla]: Yes. You can help me. Forget you ever knew me. Never come here again. Guard! The lady has finished with me. [Lucilla's eyes slightly tear as she stands helplessly, staring at Maximus.]
[SCENE CHANGE to the gladiator school. Gladiators sit at a table playing a game with a cobra snake. Elsewhere, Maximus, Juba and Hagen sit together. Juba and Hagen eat their bread and beans.]
HAGEN: Maximus, you commanded legions? Had many victories?
MAXIMUS: Yes.
HAGEN: In Germania?
MAXIMUS: In many countries.
[The cook calls out "General" and Maximus goes to him where he is handed a bowl of beans. Maximus returns to the table. Sensing the watchful eye of Juba, he looks up to see Juba who cautions Maximus by slightly shaking his head "no". Maximus holds back and does not eat the food. Hagen, seeing that Maximus is cautious about the food, takes his own spoon and dips it into Maximus' bowl, and then places the spoon in his own mouth. Hagen suddenly begins to gasp and choke, he grabs his throat as Maximus and Juba look on in shock. Hagen then begins to laugh. Juba and Maximus laugh with relief. Maximus returns to his food but looks up at Juba with a look of doubt...not for that moment but for what lies ahead.]
JUBA: You have a great name. He must kill your name before he kills you.
[SCENE CHANGE - at the Colosseum, as the senators are gathering for the upcoming fight. Senator Gracchus is about to be seated.]
FALCO: Senator Gracchus. I don't often see you enjoying the pleasures of the vulgar crowd.
GRACCHUS: Well. I do not pretend to be a man of the people, Senator. But I do try to be a man for the people.
[Wagons enter the arena tossing bread and fruit at the crowd as they cheer. Caesar enters the arena, accepting the cheers from the crowd. Atop in the stands, stands Cassius adorned in red wig, as he introduces the upcoming fight while the crowd calls out, "Caesar, Caesar, Caesar."]
CASSIUS: People of Rome. On the 4th day of Antioch, we can celebrate the 64th day of the games. And in his majestic charity, the Emperor has deigned this day to favour the people of Rome with an historical final match. Returning to the Colosseum today after five years in retirement, Caesar, is pleased to bring you the only undefeated champion in Roman history, the legendary...Tigris of Gaul!
[Out from the tunnel comes Tigris on his grand chariot, wearing a full headed, silver helmet, entering the arena to the cheers of the crowd. And in the crowd Cicero, Maximus' servant from the Germania battle, sits anxiously, waiting to see Maximus.]
[SCENE CHANGE to the bowels of the Colosseum where the gladiators are held as they wait their turn in the arena. Maximus stands in the tunnel, shadows cast darkly upon him, as he practices, agile as he is, with his sword awaiting his entrance to the arena. Proximo, standing at the bottom of the tunnel with the other fighters, calls up to Maximus and Maximus calls back.]
PROXIMO: He knows too well how to manipulate a mob.
MAXIMUS: Marcus Aurelius had a dream that was Rome, Proximo. This is not it. This is not it!
PROXIMO: Marcus Aurelius is dead, Maximus. We mortals are but shadows and dust, shadows and dust, Maximus.
[Maximus stands ready to enter the arena, the gates are opened and the voice of the announcer, Cassius, can be heard, "Representing the training lyceum of Antonius Proximo, Caesar is proud to give you Aelius Maximus." With that, Maximus walks out onto the arena floor, shield in one hand, sword in the other. The crowd cheers. Proximo stops as he hears his name announced in the Colosseum, bringing back memories.]
[Commodus, Lucilla, Lucius and Quintus watch from the Emperor's box as Maximus and Tigris are introduced to the crowd. On the arena floor, Maximus plants his sword in the sand and bends down in his ritual way, to collect in his hands a sampling of dirt. Cicero is again seen in the stands, this time, slightly smiling, relieved to see the General. At the Emperor's box, Lucilla holds back all emotion. The crowd calling out, "Maximus, Maximus, Maximus."]
COMMODUS: They embrace him like he's one of their own.
LUCILLA: The mob is fickle brother. He'll be forgotten in a month.
COMMODUS: No, much sooner than that. It has been arranged.
[Back on the arena floor, Tigris turns to Caesar's box, with swords crossed, he bows, "We who are about to die salute you." Maximus stands by, showing no salute whatsoever? . As Maximus gets ready to fight, the large doors to the arena are thrown open, surprising Maximus. From each door emerges a team of men, who run into the arena. Each team picks up a chain from the sand. Maximus becomes distracted. Tigris kicks sand into Maximus' face and begins the fight with his sword followed immediately with a fierce kick to the chest. Maximus is thrown to the ground and rolls out of the way of an opening trap door as large tiger jumps out?, pouncing at the fighting gladiators. Maximus is now having to escape the claws of the tigers as he battles Tigris. Another tiger pounces at Maximus who deflects the attack with his shield. Maximus' roars can be heard as he does battle. In the background can be heard "loose, loose, loose" and "pull, pull, pull" as the handlers coordinate their efforts in handling each of the tigers that are now on the arena floor growling and charging at Maximus. As the fight continues, each fighter gives fierceful blows to the other. The trap doors open as Maximus gets closer and the tigers jump out, swiping at Maximus with their large paws. He falls to the ground and makes a full roll to get away from the tigers]
[Maximus manages to disarm Tigris with a fierce blow of his shield to his face, switching his sword from one hand to the other, Maximus stands ready to finish off Tigris. Suddenly, a fourth tiger jumps out of a trap door and jumps at Maximus. In that split second, Maximus turns and the tiger is speared with his sword. Maximus is thrown to the sand as the large beast lays atop him. Maximus stabs the beast repeatedly, killing it. The crowds cheer wildly. Tigris moves in for an attack. Maximus, on his back with the beast still on him, manages to grab Tigris' axe, again hits Tigris' face shield and with great force and a fierce roar spikes Tigris in the foot. Tigris bends over in pain, blood pouring from the opening of his mask. Maximus stands and kicks Tigris' chest, knocking him to the ground. He is finished! The crowd cheers "kill, kill, kill". With ax in hand, standing over the fallen Tigris, he slides open the silver mask exposing Tigris' bloodied face. ]
[Maximus looks up at Commodus. The Emperor is clearly disappointed that his plan has failed. Commodus stands, arm extended and slowly shows a "thumb down". Maximus lifts the axe over his head, ready to kill Tigris then suddenly tosses the axe aside--in defiance of Commodus but, also, finished with the killing. The senators sit in their box, silent, watching each other in astonishment. From the crowd can be heard "Maximus, Maximus the merciful." Commodus displays a hint of a false smile as though to prevent the crowd from truly knowing the hate he feels for Maximus and to guard himself from the knowledge of his failure. Commodus leaves the box.]
[Maximus is about to exit the arena, the Praetorian enter and encircle him as Commodus enters the arena to boos from the crowd and approaches Maximus.]
COMMODUS: What am I going to do with you, you simply won't...die. Are we so different, you and I? You take life when you have to, as I do. [Exhausted from the fight, Maximus coldly stares at him.]
MAXIMUS: I only have one more life to take and then it is done.
COMMODUS: Then take it now.
[Maximus glances up at Lucilla as she sits in the Emperor's box, and then to the Praetorian as they stand guard around the two. Maximus calmly turns to walk away....]
COMMODUS: They tell me your son [Maximus slowly turns back to him] squealed like a girl when they nailed him to the cross.... [the pain of reliving the heinous act washes across his face]. And your wife, moaned like a whore when they ravaged her again, and again, and again.
MAXIMUS [exhibiting extreme but calm restraint]: The time for honouring yourself will soon be at an end, Highness.
[Maximus slowly turns away from Commodus, the Praetorian step aside and let Maximus pass. He leaves the arena. Commodus is left with a look of surprise.]
CROWD: Maximus, Maximus, Maximus....
[SCENE CHANGE to the streets as Maximus is taken by two guards, back to the gladiator school. Proximo follows behind, shielded under his large umbrella. They pass through the streets adjacent the Colosseum. A large crowd of fans are waiting for Maximus, chanting his name and waving banners displaying "Maximvs". In the crowd is Cicero. Cicero tries to catch the attention of Maximus, his arm stretched out, holding a small leather pouch, and crying out his name.]
CICERO: General! General! General!
[At last, Maximus sees him and with joy, calls back "Cicero!" Cicero runs through the crowd calling after him, trying desperately to get closer to his master. Maximus struggles to get near but the guards are staying close, holding back the crowds.]
MAXIMUS: Where are you camped?
CICERO: Ostia !
[Finally, after several attempts, Cicero hides behind a prostitute who is also vying for Maximus' attention. This time, Maximus gets close to Cicero and they reach out to each other.]
MAXIMUS: Tell the men the general lives. Find me, find me! [The guards call out "Go. Move along. Move along." As they pull Maximus away from Cicero, he manages to give Maximus the pouch he was carrying. Maximus hides it inside his palms.]
[Later, in his cell, Maximus eagerly opens the leather pouch handed to him by Cicero, inside he finds the two figurines of his wife and son. He looks at them longingly, kissing tenderly the figurine of his wife, as though she were there to receive his affection and love. Juba approaches.]
JUBA: Can they hear you?
[Maximus turns his head towards Juba, his eyes moist from the happiness of his reunion with his family through the figurines and responds to Juba.]
MAXIMUS: Who?
JUBA: Your family, in the after life?
MAXIMUS: Oh, yes.
JUBA: What do you say to them ?
MAXIMUS: To my boy, I tell him I will see him again soon, and to keep his heels down when he's riding his horse. [Maximus continues with a smile as he grasps the figurines tighter,] To my wife...that is not your business.
[Together they laugh. Maximus holds tight his belongings, sending a look of victory to Juba. A look of peace settles on his face as he clutches the figurines.]
[SCENE CHANGE - back at the Palace, Commodus, in a child-like pouty fashion, is talking with Senator Falco.]
COMMODUS: And now they love Maximus for his mercy, so I can't just kill him or it makes me even more unmerciful. The whole thing is like a great...nightmare.
FALCO: He is defying you. His every victory is an act of defiance, the mob sees this, and so do the Senate. Every day he lives they grow bolder. Kill him!
COMMODUS: No! I will not make a martyr of him.
FALCO: I have been told of a certain sea snake which has a very unusual method of attracting its prey. It will lie at the bottom of the ocean as if wounded, then its enemies will approach and yet it will lie quite still and then its enemies will take little bites of it and yet it remains still.
COMMODUS: So, we will lie still and let our enemies come to us and nibble. .... Have every senator followed.
[SCENE CHANGE - The following day, gladiators are training inside the gladiator school. Maximus walks through the camp, making his way to a gate where the crowds watch the gladiators on display. Maximus passes a guard who calls him by name. He nods in recognition of the guard. Maximus reaches the gate where Cicero is waiting. Placing his hand behind Cicero's head, clasping his hand with the other, they talk.]
MAXIMUS: Cicero, my old friend! I thought I had seen you for the last time.
CICERO: We thought you were dead!
MAXIMUS: Close. How long have the men been in Ostia?
CICERO: All winter.
MAXIMUS: How do they look?
CICERO: Fat and bored.
MAXIMUS: Who is in command?
CICERO: Some fool from Rome
MAXIMUS: How soon do you think they could be ready to fight?
CICERO: For you, tomorrow.
MAXIMUS: I need you to do something for me.
[SCENE CHANGE -- In the city at the bazaar, as Cicero waits, anxiously looking about the street, a children's play is underway -- A Cassius impersonator entertains the crowd, "Come! Be seated. If you haven't been in the arena, you can see it from here. The Giant Maximus is defeating our Emperor Commodus. What are we do to?" The crowd laughs and cheers.]
[Suddenly, Cicero eyes Lucilla as she is carried on her litter through the crowd. He runs to meet them. ]
CICERO: M'lady! I served your father at Vindebona!
GUARD: Back!
CICERO: M'lady, I served your father at Vindebona.
GUARD: Back!
CICERO: I then served the General Maximus. I serve him still!
LUCILLA [to her escort]: Stop! Stop! Stand back!
CICERO kneeling beside her, whispering]: The General sends word, he will meet your politician.
LUCILLA [gives him two golden coins]: For your loyalty, soldier.
CICERO: Thank you M'lady.
[SCENE CHANGE - Gladiator cells. Maximus has been brought to a central room by Proximo.]
LUCILLA [commanding Proximo]: Leave us. [Maximus sits as Lucilla turns to an adjacent room as she calls out,] Senator Gracchus.
GRACCHUS: [enters the room]: General. I hope my coming here today is evidence enough that you can trust me.
MAXIMUS: The Senate is with you?
GRACCHUS: The Senate? Yes I can speak for them.
MAXIMUS: You can buy my freedom and smuggle me out of Rome?
GRACCHUS: To what end?
MAXIMUS: Get me outside the city walls. Have fresh horses ready to take me to Ostia. My army is encamped there. By nightfall of the second day I shall return at the head of 5,000 men.
LUCILLA: But the legions all have new commanders, Loyal to Commodus.
MAXIMUS: When my men see me alive you shall see where their loyalties lie.
GRACCHUS: This is madness. No Roman army has entered the capital in 100 years. I will not trade one dictatorship for another.
MAXIMUS: The time for half measures and talk is over, Senator. ...
GRACCHUS: So, after your glorious coup, what then? You will take your 5,000 warriors and leave?
MAXIMUS: I will leave. The soldiers will stay for your protection, under the command of the senate.
GRACCHUS: So. Once all of Rome is yours, you'll just give it back to the people. Tell me why?
MAXIMUS [he turns to Lucilla] : Because that was the last wish of a dying man. [He turns back to Gracchus.] I will kill Commodus, the fate of Rome, I leave to you.
GRACCHUS: Marcus Aurelius trusted you. His daughter trusts you. I will trust you. But we have little time. Give me two days and I will buy your freedom. And you, you stay alive. Or I will be dead. Now I must go. [Gracchus extends his hand to shake Maximus' as he rises.]
[SCENE CHANGE to Proximo's quarters where Maximus is speaking with him...]
PROXIMO: This won't work. The emperor knows too much. And as for me, it's becoming dangerous. [A soldier is seen outside, attempting to overhear their talk.]
MAXIMUS: You will be paid on my return. I give you my word.
PROXIMO: Your word! What if you don't return?
MAXIMUS: Do you remember what it was to have trust, Proximo?
PROXIMO: Trust!? Who am I to trust?
MAXIMUS: I will kill Commodus.
PROXIMO: Why would I want that? He makes me rich. Oh, I, ... I know that you are a man of your word, General. I know that you would die for honour. You would die for Rome. You would die for the memory of your ancestors. But I, on the other hand, I am an entertainer. Guard!
MAXIMUS [as he leaves Proximo, he turns back to say...] : He killed the man who set you free.
[SCENE CHANGE - Senator Gracchus is seen at his home feeding chickens and ducks. A servant is near and warns the senator, "Praetorians, Master" as he sees their approach. Gracchus sends the servant away. The Praetorian arrest Gracchus.]
[SCENE CHANGE - Lucilla walks into the Palace. Commodus sits quietly and as she attempts to leave the room he stops her.]
COMMODUS: Where have you been? I sent for you.
LUCILLA: Please, brother. What troubles you?
COMMODUS: Does Gracchus have a new lover?
LUCILLA: I don't know.
COMMODUS: I thought you had seen him. He infects everyone like a putrid fever. For the health of Rome, the Senate must be bled and he will be bleed too, very soon.
LUCILLA: But not tonight.
COMMODUS: Do you remember what our father once said? [He moves to sit on the edge of the bed.] It's a dream, a frightful dream...life is. Do you think that is true? [Lucilla moves closer and sits beside her brother. A concerned, sympathetic expression covers her face.]
LUCILLA: I don't know.
COMMODUS: I think it is. And I have only you to share it with. [Lucilla comes closer, to comfort him. Commodus lays his head against her shoulder. He then leans her back and lays her on the bed. With terror in her eyes, she lays still, fearful of what might happen. Commodus gently puts his finger to her mouth and tells her, "Open your mouth". Hesitantly she opens her mouth slightly as he places his finger to her lips and then to his. He presses his head to her shoulder and says, "You know I love you." She replies, "And I love you." She lays still, her fear mounting at the thought of what may occur but Commodus soon lays his head down and falls asleep. Lucilla gently and quietly gets up and leaves. Waiting outside the room, stand her guards who follow her out.]
[SCENE CHANGE - back at Proximo's as he brings Lucilla to Maximus' cell. Proximo barks orders to the other gladiators to leave, "Get out, move!" They look to Maximus for approval and he gives it to them with a nod of the head -- the gladiators leave. Proximo turns to Maximus, "Congratulations, General. You've got very persuasive friends", and he turns to leave. Lucilla enters the cell.]
LUCILLA: My brother has had Gracchus arrested. We daren't wait any longer. You must leave tonight. [Maximus moves closer to Lucilla.] Proximo will come at midnight and take you to the gate. Your servant Cicero will be waiting with horses.
MAXIMUS: You have done all this?
LUCILLA: Yes.
MAXIMUS: You risk too much.
LUCILLA: I have much to pay for.
MAXIMUS: You have nothing to pay for. You love your son. You are strong for him.
LUCILLA: I am tired of being strong. My brother hates all the world and you, most of all.
MAXIMUS: Because your father chose me.
LUCILLA: No, because my father loved you ... and because I loved you.
MAXIMUS: A long time ago. [Tenderly taking her hand, kisses it.]
LUCILLA: Was I very different then?
MAXIMUS [With a slight smile, gently stroking her face]: You laughed more.
LUCILLA: I have felt alone all my life, except with you. [Maximus breaths deeply.] .... I must go.
MAXIMUS: Yes. [They exchange a long tender kiss.]?
[SCENE CHANGE - at the Palace, Lucius playing swords with the tall African servants, "there, there, there, there and there, and I've got you," proclaims Lucius. Commodus is awakened from his sleep, goes to Lucius and takes a wooden sword from the servant. He begins to play swords with Lucius.]
COMMODUS: Isn't it late to be playing legionnaire?
LUCIUS: I am not a legionnaire.
COMMODUS: Not a legionnaire?
LUCIUS: I am a gladiator.
COMMODUS: A gladiator? Gladiators only fight in the games. Wouldn't you prefer to be a brave Roman warrior like Julius Caesar?
LUCIUS: I am Maximus, the savior of Rome. [Commodus stops and kneels in front of Lucius. The wooden sword scrapes the marble floor as it slips.]
COMMODUS: The savior of Rome. And who said that? [Lucius whispers in his ear. Commodus holds him tighter and tighter as he hears.]
[SCENE CHANGE - Lucilla returns to the palace and asks her servant where Lucius is. She replies, "He's with the Emperor, M'lady." She quickly leaves in search of Lucius. She walks to Commodus' room and as she approaches, she can hear Commodus talking with Lucius. Lucilla slows her pace to listen and then quickly walks to join in the midst of their talk.]
LUCIUS: ...she couldn't have.
COMMODUS: Yes, she did. She took it from a basket, pressed it to her breast, right here above the heart. .... hissss
LUCIUS: And it bit her in the breast?!
COMMODUS: Yes. You see, Lucius, sometimes royal ladies behave very strangely and do very odd things in the name of love.
LUCIUS: I think it's silly.
COMMODUS: So do I, so do I.
[Commodus sees Lucilla enter the room.]
COMMODUS: Sister...join us. I've been reading to dear Lucius.
LUCIUS: I've been reading, too.
COMMODUS: Yes, he's a very clever little boy. He'll make a grand Emperor one day.
[Lucilla looks astonished, fearful at what may be occurring.]
COMMODUS: We've been reading about the great Marc Anthony and his adventures in Egypt.
LUCIUS: And the Queen killed herself with a snake!
COMMODUS [to Lucius]: And just wait until you hear what happened to our other ancestors! If you're very good, tomorrow night I'll tell you the story of Emperor Claudius. He was betrayed, by those closest to him ... by his own blood ... they whispered in dark corners and went out late at night and conspired and conspired.
[Lucilla is nearly in tears as her fear heightens.]
COMMODUS: But the Emperor knew they were up to something. He knew they were busy little bees. And one night he sat down with one of them and he looked at her and he said, "Tell me what you have been doing, busy little bee, or I shall strike down those dearest to you. You shall watch as I bathe in their blood." And the emperor was heartbroken. The little bee had wounded him more deeply than anyone else could ever have done. And what do you think happened then, Lucius?
LUCIUS: I don't know Uncle.
COMMODUS [looking at Lucilla]: The little bee told him everything.
[Tears slowly roll down Lucilla's face.]
[Back at the gladiator school...Maximus begins to collect his things, placing the figurines of his wife and son into their leather pouch, slipping his ring on his finger. Outside, Praetorian guards, some on foot, others on horseback, are seen as they approach. Meanwhile, assassins are releasing a red coral snake into the bed of Senator Gaius as he and his wife sleep. The Praetorian have reached Proximo's quarters; stand outside the gate and call out, "Open in the name of the Emperor. Open the gates, Proximo. Open the gates. Do you want to die, old man?"Maximus and Proximo hear the cries and look out at the guards. Proximo walks to Maximus, holding a large ring of keys and says, Here. Everything is prepared. It seems you have won your freedom. [Proximo hands Maximus the ring of keys for his get away.]
MAXIMUS: Proximo, are you in danger of becoming a good man.
PROXIMO: Hahh!
MAXIMUS: Juba. [as Maximus hands him the ring of keys to the cells.]
[Outside the guards continue calling out, "All enemies of the Emperor die!" They also call out "Maximus". The guards pull the gate down and out of the way as they enter the school.]
[Meanwhile, the gladiators gather around Maximus to listen to his orders.]
MAXIMUS: I only need moments so you need not be careless with your lives. If you don't want to be any part of this go back to your cells.
HAGEN: We will wait here for you, Maximus. [The gladiators call out,] "Strength and Honour".
[Maximus turns to Juba and says "Strength and Honour" as the two friends gently butt foreheads. Maximus begins to make his get away as the gladiators battle with the Roman guards. The gladiators fight bravely. Hagen is killed when several guards stab him with their swords, and several arrows pierce his body. Juba is seen fighting but escapes harm. In Proximo's quarters, the Praetorian run up the stairs to his room. Proximo stands with his back to the door, holding his Rudius and says, "Shadows and dust". The guards stab him to his death. Meanwhile, Maximus makes his way through the tunnel to the outside. Along the way, he finds his armour and sword and puts them on. Once outside, he sees a rider standing still. He whistles and the rider, Cicero, recognizes the whistle and shouts "Maximus". At that moment, his horse bolts and Cicero is hanged by the rope around his neck, his body sways and bumps into the tree. Maximus runs to him and lifts him. Cicero says, "I'm sorry." The Praetorian shoot arrows and kill Cicero as Maximus cries out an anguished roar "Noooo!" Maximus is surrounded by the Praetorian.]
[SCENE CHANGE - back at the palace. Senator Falco approaches Commodus as he stands looking over the city, flocks of birds rise up and over the Colosseum. Falco reports, "It is done." Commodus slowly turns to Falco.]
COMMODUS: And what of my nephew and what of his mother? Shall they share her lover's fate or should I be merciful? Commodus the merciful. Lucius will stay with me now and if his mother so much as looks at me in a manner that displeases me, he will die. And if she decides to be noble and take her own life, he will die. And, as for you, [turning to Lucilla] you will love me as I have loved you. You will provide me with an heir of pure blood so that Commodus and his progeny will rule for 1,000 years. Am I not merciful? [He gets close to her face and tries to kiss her but Lucilla turns away. Commodus pinches her jaw with his fingers, turning her face towards him and screams] AM I NOT MERCIFUL?! [Tears slowly come down Lucilla's face.]
[SCENE CHANGE - at the Colosseum. The crowd chants "Maximus, Maximus, Maximus" The petals of red flowers float in the air onto the sands of the arena floor.... Below, Maximus is chained, arms extended out and above his shoulders in a fashion that prevents him from defending himself or combating anyone. Commodus enters the cell and walks to Maximus. The other prisoners (Gracchus, Juba, other gladiators) are watching as he enters. Commodus, dressed in his white leather armour, approaches the chained Maximus who is bruised and weary.]
COMMODUS [In a whisper]: Maximus. Maximus. Maximus. They call for you. The general who became a slave. The slave who became a gladiator. The gladiator who defied an emperor. A striking story. Now the people want to know how the story ends. Only a famous death will do. What could be more glorious than to challenge the emperor himself in the great arena. [Commodus places his finger alongside Maximus' face, stroking it as he speaks.]
MAXIMUS: You would fight me?
COMMODUS: Why not? Do you think I am afraid?
MAXIMUS: I think you have been afraid all your life.
COMMODUS: Unlike Maximus the invincible, who knows no fear?
MAXIMUS [laughing]: I knew a man who once said, death smiles at us all. All that man can do is smile back.
COMMODUS: I wonder. Did your friend smile at his own death?
MAXIMUS: You must know. He was your father.
COMMODUS: You loved my father, I know. But so did I. That makes us brothers, doesn't it? [Commodus embraces Maximus and with one cowardly, fierce thrust with his dagger that has been hidden in his sleeve, stabs Maximus in the left side and then kisses him on the neck. Blood immediately runs from the wound. Maximus lets out his breath as the puncture releases the life from his body.] Smile for me now, brother!
COMMODUS [to Quintus]: Strap on his armour. Conceal the wound.
[SCENE CHANGE - the trap door to the arena opens as the lift rises, encircled with the Praetorian as they stand behind their black shields. In the middle, the white clad Commodus, gazing upwardly, basking in the sun stands next to the wounded, dying Maximus dressed in his black body armour.? All the while, Quintus fearfully staring at Maximus. As they reach the floor of the arena, the Praetorian take their ring formation. Maximus stumbles to the center, holding his left arm close to his body protecting his wound. He slowly stoops to pick up a handful of sand, with a watchful eye on Quintus. Maximus rubs the sand between his hands and reaches for his sword but Quintus tosses it away, out of Maximus' reach?. Maximus painfully moves to where the sword has been tossed, picks it up and immediately charges at Commodus. The two do battle. Maximus roars as he attacks Commodus, but Commodus does well and attacks back. Maximus manages to knock Commodus' legs out from underneath him who falls flat on his back to the ground. He quickly gets up and strikes Maximus with all his might. Maximus swings his sword back at Commodus with great force. With the swing of his sword, as Maximus spins back and Commodus cuts Maximus' leg. The wound begins to bleed. Maximus stumbles but maintains his balance and charges at Commodus cutting his arm, causing Commodus to drop his sword. Commodus stands unarmed.]
[Maximus, losing strength and gravely suffering from the dagger wound inflicted by Commodus while earlier chained, begins to drift into the after life -- he sees the gate to his home, he reaches out in an effort to push the portal open, his sword dropping from his hand. Meanwhile, Commodus is calling Quintus for his sword, "Sword, give me your sword," but Quintus does not comply. Commodus then turns to the Praetorian, calling out, "Sword". The guards begin to pull their swords when Quintus quickly orders them to "sheath your swords". They comply. Commodus again reaches for his hidden dagger? and Maximus quickly returns to this life, unarmed but for his strength and determination. Commodus charges at Maximus with his dagger. Maximus ferociously strikes Commodus with his fist punching with great force, then butting his head with his elbow. Commodus strikes back but is no match for Maximus. Maximus grabs hold of Commodus. With one hand cupping the back of Commodus' head, the other forces the dagger back into Commodus. All the while, Commodus punches back as he tries relentlessly to fight off Maximus. Maximus slowly plunges the dagger into Commodus' throat, deeper and deeper until it can go no further. Commodus, his breath leaving his body, falls to the ground.
[The fight over, Maximus begins to once again drift to the after life. He reaches out his bloodied hand, to push open the portal that leads to his family, to his home, but is once again, brought back when Quintus calls to him, "Maximus, Maximus".]
MAXIMUS : Quintus, free my men. Senator Gracchus is to be reinstated. There was a dream that was Rome, it shall be realized. These are the wishes of Marcus Aurelius. [Quintus calls out to the guards, "Free the prisoners, ...go!" ]
[Maximus stands, unsteady, as the vision of the wheat field once again comes to him but this time it is more clear. His wife? and son are waiting for him. Suddenly he falls as he loses consciousness, flat on his back with a tremendous force, hard like a tree.
[Lucilla runs into the arena, dropping to her knees at his side and calling to him "Maximus!" Maximus gazes up and tells her, "Lucius is safe." Lucilla looks at him adoringly as Maximus lays still and responds, "Go to them". Again, Maximus sees the vision of his home, tall cedars beyond the gate, as the sound of childish laughter is heard and sees the wheat field as his wife and son stand along the road, looking to him. His boy runs towards him as he walks through the tall wheat -- Now he is free. With her hand, she closes his eyes, his face calm and at peace as he leaves this world. Lucilla adds, "You are home."? Grieving, with one hand on her head, she quickly regains her presence, stands and turns to Senator Gracchus and the crowd.]
LUCILLA: Is Rome worth one good man's life? We believed it once. Make us believe it again. He was a soldier of Rome. Honour him.
GRACCHUS [Comes forward and asks]: Who will help me carry him?
[Many gather to lift Maximus and carry him from the arena. Commodus' body is left alone, on the sand.]
[SCENE CHANGE as Juba is hallowing a place in the blood stained sand on the spot where Maximus died. Juba unfolds the small leather pouch and removes the statuettes belonging to Maximus of his wife and son and gently places them in their resting place, smoothing over the sand to secure their place and proclaims:]
JUBA: Now we are free. I will see you again. But not yet, not yet....
~ The End ~
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