Ridley Scott Recalls Tension on Gladiator Set

During the filming of 'Gladiator', Joaquin Phoenix expressed doubts about his role as Commodus, prompting Russell Crowe to label his behavior as 'terribly unprofessional', according to director Ridley Scott. Phoenix, dressed in costume, reportedly stated, 'I can’t do it,' which led Scott to intervene and encourage him to continue, describing their relationship as one akin to that of siblings. Scott reflected on the experience as a 'baptism of fire' for both himself and Phoenix, who later received an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. The film went on to win five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, with Crowe winning Best Actor. Despite his success, Phoenix has faced similar uncertainties in later projects, notably dropping out of a film with Todd Haynes shortly before production was set to start. Phoenix has acknowledged his nervousness during film productions, suggesting that the stakes of 'Gladiator' were particularly daunting for him.