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The next scene of importance can be considered the first Maximus has with Tigris of Graul. In this scene we are drawn into the action completely as if we were observers in the Coliseum itself. The constant roar of the crowds and their urging for death capture your ears and keep the adrenaline rushing; you become a Roman and are cheering for death yourself. Every clash of swords, every bang of metal on metal, and every cut, slash, puncture, punch and kick are all felt by the devastating realism of sound and camera angles. An awesome aspect of this scene is the fading in and out of the crowd while the fight surges. A favorite of mine, which caught my full attention, was the chains of the tigers running through the rings, symbolizing danger, as they were the only distinct sounds. The music draws you into the scene with its constant growth of intensity as the action comes to a climax with the wish of Tigris's death following the action perfectly in sync. .
This scene is so riveting with its sound quality and camera angles. Throughout the fight the every detail seems to jump out at you, the grains of sand are so clear as the camera slows just slightly so that you may see individual grains. In many shots of this last scene you become Maximus, you become the warrior trapped under the tiger, you find yourself struggling for your freedom. The panoramic shots of the crowd are so enthralling because they show the vastness of the Coliseum in all its grandeur. Also as the camera pans back and forth between the fight and Commodus, seeing his growing displeasure. As before, he is again bathed in the shadows, adding to the idea of corruption and evil. In some camera shots we are drawn into the action as the camera is very low and angled up; always next to the action, you almost feel if you were the one swinging the sword or deflecting the blows yourself. .
Using subtle slow motion added to the realism of this fight scene tremendously.
