Oliver Reed's last performance as Proximus the freed slave, was astounding. He embodies the wisdom of the old warrior who does not only think about his own interests, but deep inside cares about those who risk their lives for his own profit.Proximus is the one who purchases Maximus as a slave and helps him to become a Gladiator's Gladiator. His advice and help would proof to be priceless. He tells Maximus: Win the crowd Spaniard.... and perhaps you shall win your freedom. Before the movie ended Mr. Reed died, this put additional challenges in telling the story, but director Ridley Scott found innovative ways to film the final lines of one of the top character depictions ever.