May 2000 Volume 81 Number 5 "serving the protectors"
By Mike Horsfall

AT THE CINEMA

GLADIATOR

In his quest for an Academy Award, New Zealand-born actor, Russell Crowe, might have been more successful in the new release, Gladiator. What at first might seem to be just another Roman blood-fest develops into a glorious movie that will keep viewers glued to their seats. But be warned - as would be expected some scenes may turn your stomach.

The great roman General Maximus (Russell Crowe) has once again led the legions to victory on the battlefield. The war won, Maximus is ready to return home to his wife and son. But the dying emperor Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris) has one last duty for the general - to assume the mantle of his power.

Once a great Roman general, who was sold into slavery and trained as a gladiator, Maximus (Russell Crowe) must fight for his life in the Roman Colosseum in Gladiator.

Jealous of Maximus’s favour, the emperor’s son, Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), orders his execution - and that of his family. Barely escaping death, Maximus is forced into slavery and is trained as a gladiator. Soon he will return to Rome, intent on avenging the murder of his wife and son and killing the new emperor Commodus.

Gladiator is a movie not to be missed.

For the opportunity to win a double pass put your details on the back of a used envelope and address it to the Gladiator Comp, SA Police Journal (168).

GALAXY QUEST

For four seasons, from 1972 to 1982, the crew of the NSEA Protector donned their uniforms and set out on thrilling and often dangerous missions in space. During this time, the crew members became legends with a huge and very loyal following, not only on earth but also with the Thermians, a race of aliens from the Klatu Nebula.

The Thermians believed they were viewing historical documents when they intercepted television broadcasts. So, when their world was in peril, they whisked the crew into space to help them defeat an all-too-real and very deadly adversary.

Already showing in cinemas around Adelaide, Galaxy Quest is a movie with a difference. I had some reservations before attending a preview in April, but I left the cinema with a desire to return. I had to see this movie again. Galaxy Quest is a winner.

Among the cast of this sci-fi send-up is Tim Allen, who stars as both actor Jason Nesmith and Commander Quincy Peter Taggart. Most filmgoers will have difficulty establishing the role played by Sigourney Weaver as actor Gwen DeMarco and communications officer, Lieutenant Tawny Madison.

For the opportunity to win a double pass put your details on the back of a used envelope and address it to the Galaxy Quest Comp, SA Police Journal (168).

School Holiday Movies

Many of us will no doubt be looking at providing some suitable entertainment for our children during the school holidays. Two suitable and entertaining movies are The Iron Giant and Selkie, which will be showing at cinemas around Adelaide.

ON VIDEO

THE GENERAL’S DAUGHTER

As Warrant Officer Paul Brenner (John Travolta) he’s expected to follow the party line. But as a top investigator with the army’s Criminal Investigation Division, he’s also charged with the pursuit of truth - wherever it may lead.

After being assigned to look into the murder of the General’s daughter - Captain Elisabeth Campbell (Leslie Stefanson) - he inadvertently uncovers a scandal of immense proportions. What he discovers beneath the well-ordered surface of military life is a sordid secret that makes murder suspects of some of the army’s finest.

The General’s Daughter is a crime thriller based on the best-selling novel by Nelson DeMille and has already experienced significant cinema success in the USA and Australia. Available for rental on May 19, The General’s Daughter is rated MA15+. With us it scores nine out of 10.

A CIVIL ACTION

Jan Schlichtmann (John Travolta) is a cynical, high-priced personal-injury lawyer who only takes the big-money cases that can safely be settled out of court. Though his latest case seems quite straightforward, he finds himself devoting much more time and energy than he would ever have considered necessary. He soon becomes entangled in an epic legal battle that not only puts his career and reputation on the line, but also his financial future.

Another big winner for John Travolta, A Civil Action is a suspenseful true story that’s been praised as the greatest legal thriller of all time. Those who love the great legal battles will want to purchase A Civil Action. Available for purchase on May 5, the movie also features Robert Duvall, William H Macy and John Lithgow. A Civil Action also rates nine out of 10.

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