The historical story begins sixteen years after the Academy Award-winning movie “Gladiator” concluded, as Ridley Scott returns as director, with an opening setting of northern Africa where Lucius, a refugee, warrior, and farmer, is captured and enslaved by General Marcus Acacius played by Pedro Pascal from Rome. Lucius, who is now enslaved by the Roman army, becomes a gladiator. Macrinus (Denzel Washington) is a formerly enslaved person turned well-connected arms dealer who sees his path to power through his newfound prize fighter. Paul Mescal stars as the main Gladiator (Lucius), he’s the grown son of Lucilla, played by Connie Nelson and Maximus, Russell Crowe, who won an Oscar for his role in 2000. As a follow-up to the original film, I was enthralled by the fast-paced drama, which is exciting and has nonstop action. I enjoyed the film tremendously; just wish the runtime was shorter and that Mescal would have remained the lead throughout the film; he is overshadowed by General Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal), who leads the Roman army and is married to Lucilla (Connie Nielsen).
General Marcus Acacius and Lucilla, both of whom share a dream of realizing former emperor Marcus Aurelius’ vision of Rome, yearn for change. However, their hopes are dashed as the Roman Empire is now under the rule of the bloodthirsty twin emperors Caracalla and Geta. The film, with its 2-hour and 28-minute runtime, is a thrilling experience that pays homage to the original.
It should be noted that Lucius Verus Aurelius, the grandson of Marcus Aurelius and nephew of the childless Commodus, is the heir to the throne of the Roman Empire. He has lived contentedly for 15 years with his wife Arishat (Yuval Gonen) until the arrival of Roman legions led by General Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal). During the ensuing battle, Arishat is killed and Lucius is captured. Shades of the first “Gladiator” for sure.
The story, at times, evokes memories of the first Gladiator, reminding all viewers of the circumstances and dangers, as well as the intense sword fights. The CGI baboon-like animals, with their razor-sharp teeth, add to the tension, as they hunger for flesh. While the absence of the eccentric Joaquin Rafael Phoenix is felt, the comical twin emperors serve as entertaining substitutes, akin to Beeves and Butt-head.
My main complaint is that Pedro Pascal should have played Paul Mescal’s role, as he is a well-known actor with a superior stage presence to Mescal. This causes problems in the film as the scenes between the two are clearly focused on Pascal. I view this as both a casting issue and a script flaw. What I appreciated was the newfound friend who mentors and helps Pascal in the arena scenes, which are, of course, the film’s highlight. All battle and fight scenes are expertly choreographed with surprise moves and situations. Here’s where the film stands on its own.
Should you see “Gladiator 2”? My suggestion is yes, especially if you enjoyed the first movie. I’ve seen it too many times to count, and I still consider it a perfect movie. I screened the film while in London on November 15, 2024, and was pleased with the follow-up. It is playing in theaters sometime around January or February 2025 and will be offered online.
Sarah Knight Adamson@ November 20, 2024
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