With a stacked list of new movies to watch in 2024, from blockbuster IPs to heart-warming indie films, Ridley Scott‘s Gladiator II joins the battle for the best 2024 film. The story, written by Peter Craig and David Scarpa, follows an adult Lucius (Paul Mescal), the son of Maximus (Russell Crowe) and Lucilla (Connie Nielsen), living in a Roman province to escape those who wish to kill the sole heir to the emperor. After Roman General Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal) invades his province, Lucius has no choice but to be a gladiator under Macrinus’ (Denzel Washington) watch. Macrinus and Lucius work together to channel their anger and exact revenge on Acacius and Roman emperors, Geta (Joseph Quinn) and Caracalla (Fred Hechinger).
Almost 25 years after his award-winning Gladiator, Scott slips back into this world to deliver an epic heart-pounding spectacle. Although Gladiator 2 follows story beats similar to those of its predecessor, the film is elevated by the cast’s powerful performances, the grandiose production design, and the brutal action sequences. Not only is it one of Scott’s better films, but Gladiator 2 cuts down most of the competition for best movie of the year.
Paul Mescal and Denzel Washington Are Godly in ‘Gladiator 2’
After starring in indie projects, Mescal’s first outing in a big Hollywood blockbuster is glorious. In his first action hero role, he channels an animalistic side to express his anger, while still showing Lucius’ humanity. The way he easily switches from stoic to rageful is a testament to his range as an actor. Mescal can command the room in his scenes with most of the cast, but Washington delivers an unforgettable, jaw-dropping performance that stands toe-to-toe with his best roles. Macrinus is a complex character due to the lengths he’s willing to go to become the new Roman emperor. Audiences will love to hate him due to the cunning mind games he plays. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him getting Best Supporting Actor nominations next award season, let alone win.
Similarly, Pascal’s Marcus Acacius is more nuanced than simply an antagonist to Lucius. Despite being well-known as the general who conquers different nations in the name of Rome, he’s seen enough carnage to last a hundred lifetimes. After leading projects like The Last of Us and The Mandalorian, Pascal’s supporting role in Gladiator 2 is in service of other characters, yet he still has an emotional journey with a lot of depth.
Nielsen reprises the role of Lucilla with more gravitas as she’s given much more to work with in Gladiator 2 as a mother, a wife, a widow, a conspirator, and a leader. Even 20 years after the events of Gladiator, Lucilla is still admirably working toward establishing a fair and just Roman nation, despite many losing hope. While Quinn and Hechinger aren’t given as much screentime and exploration as Joaquin Phoenix‘s Commodus in Gladiator, they provide chilling performances as the dual emperors. These high-positioned government roles are not so far off from the real world — making it all the more scary.
The Sequel’s Costume and Set Designs Are a Feast for the Eyes
With a much bigger budget than Gladiator, Scott recreates and delivers more visual spectacles in Gladiator 2. Despite some questionable CGI, the battles are much bigger and will leave fans on the edge of their seat. Mescal and Pascal make each hit they deliver and are dealt feel real. The stunt team does an amazing job adding to the believability of these battles. While not historically accurate, it’s fun to watch the gladiators fight in unique and brutal scenarios.
Janty Yates earned the Academy Award for Best Costume Design in Gladiator, and it’d be a shame if she didn’t at least get nominated for her work in Gladiator 2. The wardrobe for all the characters in the film is beautiful to look at and provides subtle insights into who they are. For example, Marcus only dons a cape outside of battles to show his heroic side. There are sure to be more intricate details that’ll add a new layer to these characters in the special features when Gladiator 2 gets its home release.
‘Gladiator 2’ Will Have Audiences Entertained
As someone who doesn’t regularly make an effort to watch historical films, Gladiator 2 is a testament to how enjoyable it can be for many audiences. The film does try to provide context for those who never watched the previous film, but it’s highly encouraged to see Gladiator beforehand to feel the emotional weight. It joins the ranks of best legacy sequels alongside Top Gun: Maverick and Creed.
The competition may be tough this coming awards season, but with the cast’s compelling performances, stunning sets and costumes, and bloody action, Gladiator 2 is worthy of surviving the fight. It’s equally emotional and thrilling to witness throughout its two-and-a-half-hour runtime. Like the gladiators, Scott treats his property with strength and honor.
Gladiator 2 will be released in the U.K. on November 15, and in North American theaters on November 22. Follow the Agents of Fandom socials for all the latest entertainment news and reviews.
'Gladiator 2' Review
'Gladiator 2' ReviewThe Good
- The cast's dynamic performances, especially by Paul Mescal and Denzel Washington, are encapsulating.
- The fight sequences draw you into the action, making you feel every impact.
- The set design and wardrobe are stunning.
- The film is well-paced for a 2.5 hour runtime.
The Bad
- The story draws too many similar beats from its predecessor.
- It's strange that there is jarring CGI when a lot of the film relies on practical effects.
