For a long time, the idea of a sequel to Gladiator remained only in the fantasy stage. The release of this second installment today has never been so close. Still directed by Ridley Scott, the film comes 24 years after Russell Crowe’s directorial debut. The story follows a new hero, no less: Lucius, son of Maximus.
Years after witnessing the death of the revered hero Maximus at the hands of his uncle, Lucius is forced into the Colosseum when his country is overrun by the tyrannical emperors who now rule Rome with an iron fist. With rage at heart and the future of the empire at stake, Lucius must look to his past to find the strength and honor to restore Rome to its people.
For this ambitious new project, in an action sequence that promises to be fascinating – you only have to watch the trailer to be sure – Ridley Scott is surrounded by Paul Mescal, who appeared in the TV series Normal People. She stars alongside Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn – the protagonist of Stranger Things Season 4 – and Connie Nielsen as Lucilla.
Gladiator II has already been praised by several early viewers. Here are some reactions:
“GLADIATOR II is truly epic and Ridley Scott’s best film in years. Paul Mezcal is a great action star who won’t sacrifice his independent side, a worthy heir to the throne. Denzel Washington eats up every line and costume without going overboard.”
“Gladiator II is Ridley Scott’s best film since Alone on Mars. A huge, bloody, nasty action spectacle that builds on the legacy of the original. The movie features brilliant scenes and many epic battles. Paul Mezcal shines. Denzel Washington does this a lot and looks like he’s having the time of his life here.”
“Calm down, Romans. #Gladiator2 is the kind of grand production excellence that only Ridley Scott can achieve. Everything works perfectly. A beautiful nod to Top Gun Maverick’s ability to evoke the past while adding the new. A bold and muscular film from a legendary talent.”
“Ridley Scott returns to the Coliseum to prove to the world he’s still going strong after #GladiatorII ! An epic Shakespearean tale of hope, vanity and power in a broken system. Denzel delights in a breathtakingly Machiavellian performance. What a movie!“
“GLADIATOR 2 is a story of honor versus revenge. Everyone gives absolutely everything they’ve got in this epic sequel about human infidelity that takes it to another level while honoring its predecessor. So alive, emotive and textured, Ridley Scott had so much to offer.“
“#GladiatorII offers the richest feast of epic action scenes and delicious betrayals. A follow-up to the original, Paul Mescall directs a solid and star-studded cast. Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn and Fred Hatchinger are a powerful group.“
“The word epic is not enough to describe #GladiatorII. This is Ridley Scott’s best movie. Theatrics, gore, and incredible performances make this movie one of the best of the year. so amazing.”
“Damn cinema is back! That about sums up #GladiatorII. Ridley Scott’s best movie since Black Hawk Down. Paul Mescal’s performance as Lucius turned out to be one of the film’s most sincere surprises. But Denzel Washington is having the time of his life in one of the craziest roles ever. He could even win a third Oscar. The sound, the visuals, the costumes, this movie rocks. Another blockbuster that could be awarded by Oscar.”
Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II hits theaters November 13.
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
