Context

This line is spoken by Maximus, played by Russell Crowe, in the film Gladiator, directed by Ridley Scott (2000).

Russell Crowe plays Maximus, a super tough and super smart Roman general. Think of Maximus as a coach getting his players ready for a game where what's at stake is, well, your life.

Maximus is a great leader, and his troops really respect him. In this scene, the soldiers are waiting to see if they're going to fight, and when a (literal) headless horseman comes back from the enemy's direction, the men know it's time to gear up. Maximus says this memorable line from atop his trusty steed to rally his troops before battle. And it kinda works.

Where you've heard it

Need to rally the troops before your next calc test? This oughta do it, although you'll probably get some eye-rolls too. Lebron James got this quote tattooed on his left and right biceps. And keep an eye out for this quote sarcastically emblazoned on a wall in Brooklyn, thanks to the stealthy street artist Banksy.

Pretentious Factor

If you were to drop this quote at a dinner party, would you get an in-unison "awww" or would everyone roll their eyes and never invite you back? Here it is, on a scale of 1-10.

Luckily, we don't have to worry about fighting our way to legendary status with swords and crossbows anymore, so sharing this one might be a bit overkill.