Winkler (classics, George Mason U.) has created an unlikely meeting of brains and brawn in this collection of papers from classicists who contemplate the popularity of Ridley Scott's film Gladiator. The contributions examine the film in connection with Roman history and its modern contexts. The essays discuss Emperor Commodus, the Roman Empire, the Colosseum and Roman games, as well as the film's historical authenticity and cinematic influences. The contributors hope to persuade their readers to consider Roman history and culture, and historical films and Gladiator with a deeper understanding. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)