Joaquin Phoenix's Gladiator doubts: A tale of perseverance
Director Ridley Scott, in an interview with "The New York Times," revealed that Joaquin Phoenix had numerous doubts during the filming of "Gladiator," which drew criticism from Russell Crowe.
Ridley Scott, the director of Gladiator, shared previously unknown details from the legendary film's set in a recent interview with The New York Times. It turns out that Joaquin Phoenix, who portrayed the sinister Commodus, experienced moments of doubt and contemplated leaving the production.
"[Joaquin] was in his prince's outfit saying, 'I can't do it,'" Scott recalls. "I said, ‘What?’ And Russell said, ‘This is terribly unprofessional.'" Phoenix had reservations about his role, but Scott persuaded him to remain on set, saying, "I can act as a big brother or dad. But I’m quite a friend of Joaquin’s. ‘Gladiator’ was a baptism of fire for both of us in the beginning." Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix delivered unforgettable performances in "Gladiator". Both actors were nominated for an Oscar, with Crowe winning the award for Best Actor.
He stayed in "Gladiator", dropped another project
Phoenix's doubts resurfaced regarding his recent withdrawal from Todd Haynes' film just five days before filming was due to start. The actor's decision forced the director to suspend the project. During the Venice Film Festival, Phoenix promoted "Joker: Folie à Deux" and was questioned about the situation. The actor responded: "I think if I do I would just be sharing my opinion from my perspective and the other creators aren’t here to say their piece. I don’t feel like that would be right. I’m not sure how that would be helpful. So, I don’t think I will."
Not long after these events, James McAvoy revealed on the "Happy Sad Confused" podcast that he had only two weeks to prepare for his role in the film "Split". McAvoy was cast at the last minute after Phoenix withdrew from the project just before filming began.
Gladiator
"Gladiator" was a blockbuster in 2000. The story of General Maximus (Russell Crowe), a commander in the Roman army who learns that the dying Emperor Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris) wants to make him his successor to the throne, captivated audiences worldwide. The emperor's decision does not sit well with the rightful heir, Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), who decides to eliminate his rival, sentencing him and his family to death. Maximus miraculously escapes but is captured and trained as a gladiator.
The production won five Oscars, including Best Picture. Gladiator 2 will premiere in cinemas on November 13th.
