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The 2000 Best Picture-winning filmGladiatorhas had an unexpected cultural impact, revitalizing the historical epic genre and inspiring any number of rip-offs trying to recapture its glory. Twenty-four years later, we are getting a sequel inGladiator II.Ridley Scott’s long-awaited sequel is good enough to feel like more than a carbon copy of its predecessor and be a successful blockbuster in its own right.
Gladiator IIReview
Gladiator IIfollows Lucius — son of Lucilla (Connie Nielsen) and nephew of Commodus — as he must fight back against the tyrannical leaders of Rome after his home is violently conquered. At its core, the story hits many of the same beats as the first movie, but there are enough flourishes here to make it feel like its own thing and not merely a rehash of material we have already seen before.
One of the things that stands out aboutGladiator IIis that it has a much better screenplay than the first movie.Gladiatorfelt like it was laboring to get from one action sequence to the next. While this sequel still leans into tropes, it gets viewers much more invested in the story by spinning a more intricate web of political intrigue.
The other key aspect ofGladiator II’s success is that it has far more characters and, as a result, much more happening. What is most surprising is that, despite all these moving parts, it doesn’t feel like any of the characters are underdeveloped or relegated to subplots. In this way, Gladiator II is one of the rare films to earn its more than two-and-a-half-hour runtime.
Gladiator IIhas one of the most star-studded ensembles in recent memory, but this should be no surprise considering the level of esteem to which its predecessor is held. Taking the lead is Oscar nominee Paul Mescal (Aftersun) in his first real “movie star” role. Unfortunately, it seems like Mescal is more fit for indie darling status than he is for blockbuster projects like this because he brings no personality to this role. While Russell Crowe’s turn inGladiatoralso had stoicism, Mescal’s approach to this character is so uncharismatic that it’s difficult to imagine him becoming a leader.
The movie’s other headliner is Pedro Pascal, who brings much more to his role. This character feels very different from anything else he’s done (in a good way), and he brings charm to arguably the most complicated role in the film. He provides a much-needed emotional core for the story, especially given Mescal’s shortcomings.
Of course, this wouldn’t be aGladiatorsequel without a twisted, evil emperor for the commander-turned-hero to rise against, andGladiator IIgives us two. Rising star Joseph Quinn (Stranger Things) gives a deliciously demented turn in his role, even if it’s not particularly nuanced. On the other hand, Fred Hechinger goes too far with the exaggeration in his role.
The clear highlight of the cast is Denzel Washington, who appears to be having more fun here than he has had in years. He plays a flamboyant member of the Roman aristocracy, giving a performance that is incredibly silly but feels fitting considering the largely campy nature of the movie. He has some line deliveries that lend him a very memorable presence.
Of course, most people are coming toGladiator IIto see the action in the Coliseum, but be warned — this sequel has a very different approach than the first. As opposed to the gritty brutality of the first, this one tries for some wild, creative ideas. If you’re looking to see the Coliseum flooded for a naval battle with sharks, you’ll be satisfied. The swordfights, on the other hand, have an unfortunately second-unit-esque feel.
It is almost ironic that a sequel to a film acclaimed for its practical effects is so dependent on CGI. For the most part (minus the sharks, which definitely look goofy), the movie doesn’t look bad. Still, the technical aspects necessary to immerse viewers in the world of the Roman Empire, including the production design, costume design, and hair and make-up work.
IsGladiator IIworth watching?
In terms of legacy sequels,Gladiator IIfalls somewhere in the middle of the pack. It improves upon its predecessor in some ways while not quite recapturing what made it such a cultural behemoth. The film’s almost zany nature — exemplified by Denzel Washington’s performance — is enough to keep it from being boring, but it’s not particularly memorable, either.
Gladiator IIhits theaters on November 22.
Gladiator II Review — Entertaining Sequel Trades Gritty Brutality for Silly Spectacle
Sean Boelman
Managing Editor for Film and TV
Articles Published :441
Sean is the Managing Editor for Film and Television, working to determine editorial strategy for the critics team. He has been on the FandomWire team since 2022.In addition to writing reviews himself, Sean helps match writers on the FandomWire team with assignments that best fit their interests and expertise.
