Gladiator 2 (2024), Dir Ridley Scott, Paramount Pictures,

4☆☆☆☆ Review: Matthew Alicoon.

Cinema – Historical – Action – Drama

Running Time: 148 Minutes

“Ridley Scott effortlessly once again creates a titanically breathtaking spectacle”.

Gladiator II takes place sixteen years after the events of the first film. Lucius (Paul Mescal), son of Maximus (Russel Crowe) and Lucila (Connie Nielsen), vows to take revenge on the Roman army after his home is invaded. Lucius is forced to enter the colosseum as a gladiator, to return the glory of Rome to the people.

The extraordinaire of Ridley Scott has pulled off a production that carries a stunning and visceral sense of representing this magnificent scale. Gladiator II is masterfully conceptualised featuring gigantic action set pieces that carry an ambitious sense of disorder with destructiveness. The film feels immaculate through the visual language, as there is a well-crafted articulation of meticulous visual effects from the superb team. Not only does the film showcase a variety of talented artists, the visuals compliment the story. Sometimes within modern blockbusters, visual storytelling can become muddled and convoluted leading to the visuals almost taking control of the narrative. However, with Gladiator II the breathtaking landscape drives the narrative forward.

There are similar narrative beats to the original. However, for a film called Gladiator II I have no complaints, as this was concrete attempt to modernise and revitalise this cinematic world in a manner that would bring in new audiences. Cleverly, the story never entangles itself within the Roman mythology and the exposition helps you to learn more about the characters. The flashbacks help to drive the story forward with an incredibly heart-breaking and provoking backstory for Lucius. Cinematographer John Mathieson gives a harrowing and grotesque exploration into the world, not being afraid to hold back on the brutalist violence.

Paul Mescal is sensational, as he elects for a silent and reserved performance where the inner torment and rage is wonderfully sustained by himself. His journey felt incredibly authentic. Denzel Washington is chewing the scenery, having the time of his life. Washington brings a cunning and unpredictable edge to his character. Joseph Quinn convokes commanding feelings of anguish and anger.

Unfortunately, Gladiator II is just lacking multifaceted character details. The exposition feels a little overpowering in parts. There is a reformed picture into who Lucius is, yet the side characters needed more exploration. The direct impact of this was in the set pieces, as it was easy to engage with what is happening. However, it was hard to sympathise with who the action is impacting. If Gladiator III does happen, I would love to see enhanced nuances that enrich character backstories.

For 148 minutes, Gladiator II sustains its momentum earning the recognition of a truly epic cinematic blockbuster.

Cast

Paul Mescal as Lucius “Hanno” Versus

Pedro Pascal as Marcus Acacius

Connie Nielsen as Lucila

Denzel Washington as Macrinus

Joseph Quinn as Emperor Geta

Fred Hechinger as Emperor Caracalla

Creatives

Director – Ridley Scott

Screenwriter – David Scarpa

Producers – Ridley Scott, Michael Pruss, Douglas Wick, Lucy Fisher, Walter F. Parkes, Laurie MacDonald & David Franzoni

Cinematographer – John Mathieson

Editors – Claire Simpson & Sam Restivo

Music – Harry Gregson-Williams