Director: Ridley Scott
Studio: Paramount / Free Scott Productions
Review by: Robbie Fleming
The 2000 Oscar winner for Best Picture, Gladiator, is one of my favourite films of all time and my favourite film directed by Sir Ridley Scott. Twenty-four years later, Scott returns to the Roman Empire and brings us a sequel to his Oscar-winning masterpiece.
Starring Aftersun’s Paul Mescal in the lead role, Gladiator II follows Lucian (previously portrayed by Spencer Treat Clark, now played by Mescal), who returns to Rome after the Empire invades his African home. After he is bought by the slave owner Macrinus (played by Denzel Washington), Lucian trains to become a gladiator to seek revenge on the general (played by Pedro Pascal) who led the invasion. Connie Nielsen and Derek Jacobi reprise their roles from the first film, while Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger join the cast, playing the corrupt co-emperors of Rome.
So, you guys are probably wondering… Was I entertained? Let’s get into it as I bring you my thoughts on Gladiator II.
First, I’d like to say that this is an epic return to form for Sir Ridley Scott, who hasn’t made a film I’ve enjoyed since The Last Duel (2021). Scott manages to use the same visual style and techniques that made the first film special. This works well to show more continuity and connection to the first film.
John Mathieson, who also returns as the director of photography for the film, captures some brilliant shots that make this film stand out visually. The production design is something I also praise for making the film look more real rather than relying on green screen. The visual effects were also fantastic, featuring a great blend of both practical effects and CGI.
It’s a shame that Hans Zimmer couldn’t return to score this film, as his score for the original is one of its many highlights. However, Harry Gregson-Williams still manages to deliver a great score that stands on its own. Not only does it feel as epic as Zimmer’s score, but it also keeps the rhythm and tone of the original film’s score, helping it connect seamlessly.
Paul Mescal’s lead performance is another great continuation of his rising star power. He also seems to channel the same energy in the role that Russell Crowe did for Maximus all those years ago. Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen, and Joseph Quinn also deliver standout performances that shine whenever they appear on screen.
However, the best performance of the film is none other than Denzel Washington’s. Playing the villainous Macrinus, who seeks to control Rome no matter the cost, Washington steals the show and delivers a phenomenal villainous performance that rules the screen. His performance has now become my favourite supporting performance of the year, and I hope he gets awards buzz this upcoming season.
What makes this film so great is the gripping plot from start to finish. It continues Lucian’s story well, answers questions we were wondering about from the first film, explores more of Roman politics, and delivers some fantastic action sequences. The film is well-laid with impressive details that keep you immersed for its 2.5-hour runtime.
Gladiator II has now overthrown The Wild Robot as my favorite film of 2024, thanks to Scott’s return to form in directing, story, performances, cinematography, score, production design, and visual effects. I’d argue that it’s the best sequel to a Best Picture-winning film. If you are a fan of the first Gladiator, you’re going to love this one. I give it a rating of 10/10 and 5 out of 5 stars.
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