A great character-defining moment. We may not have seen him in action, we've only seen him slightly adrift in the 'ordinary world' of suburban life, but after this we know exactly who this guy is, and where this story is going...

Great point, Debbie, about now we know where the story is going. It's funny, but screenwriters have to do something counterintuitive: We need to let the reader generally where the plot is heading, they want to know that. The trick, then, is to surprise them on how we get there.

Good points both, I say! I've not seen this film, but just reading these two comments I'm tempted to do so. I know this is too late but I'd like to make a suggestion for DD (it is a death threat of sorts): Gladiator Commodus: Your fame is well deserved, Spaniard. I don't think there's ever been a gladiator to match you. As for this young man, 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. [turns away from Commodus] Commodus: How dare you show your back to me! Slave, you will remove your helmet and tell me your name. Maximus: [removes helmet and turns around to face Commodus] 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. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1UmHfWCw-4

Oh - I'd for sure consider that a death threat!