Image caption,
The extras revealed what happened during the filming of the 2000 blockbuster, Gladiator
Catherine Evans
BBC News, South East
Simon Furber
Radio Surrey
It was the blockbuster that gave Hollywood superstar Russell Crowe his "big break".
And as Gladiator director Ridley Scott releases a sequel 25 years after shooting battle scenes in Farnham, Surrey, two of the film's extras have relived their experiences.
Revisiting Bourne Woods, Scot Newing told of how he shared a scene with Crowe and advised his co-star Richard Harris where to go for a post-battle pint.
Meanwhile, Andy Bowden recalled how the woods were apparently blown up during filming and how a moment of curiosity led him and a friend to a chance meeting with the leading man and director.
Image source, Scot Newing Image caption,Bourne Woods were transformed into a battleground before the celebration scenes were filmed
Filming took 10 days in February 1999, during which the beloved forest appeared to be set alight.
But Mr Bowden had picked up on some special effects tricks.
"They buried gas cannisters underneath the ground, and it was operated a bit like a gas barbecue where they can turn the flames up or down," he told BBC Radio Surrey.
Image source, Forestry England Image caption,It took 10 days to film the scenes, which appear towards the beginning of the film
With hordes of centurions and barbarians hanging around set, the waiting periods between filming could be a bit surreal.
"I'd be sat down there with a guy with a sword sticking out of his neck, another guy with an arrow in his eye – and we'd be sat there casually talking about the football," Mr Bowden said.
Mr Newing said the cast would "engage with the crew, the extras" and that Crowe was "a pleasure to work with", while Richard Harris wanted to know "where can I get a drink after this, boys?".
Image source, Scot Newing Image caption,Scot Newing said he was proud to have been part of the film that made Russell Crowe a star
Nosing around the set at the end of the day led to a chance encounter for Mr Bowden and a fellow extra.
"We opened the flaps of the tent and Ridley Scott and Russell Crowe were in there," he said. "They were really happy and invited us in."
Image source, Andy Bowden Image caption,Nosing around the empty set ended in a meeting between Andy Bowden and director Ridley Scott
Both Mr Bowden and Mr Newing said they had great memories of their experience.
"It was a week of fighting and playacting in the woods with your mates," Mr Bowden said.
For Mr Newing, one of his best memories was sharing a scene with Crowe, albeit walking in the background.
"That was my moment of glory," he added.
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Related internet links
Secret Surrey: When Gladiator blew up Bourne Woods
Secret Surrey: Behind Bourne Woods' battle lines
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