After more than two decades of anticipation, Gladiator II has finally hit screens, bringing back the grandeur of ancient Rome. But does it live up to the legendary original? Directed once again by Ridley Scott, the film shifts focus from Maximus (Russell Crowe) to Lucius Verus (Paul Mescal), the young boy from the first film, now a grown man forced into the brutal world of gladiatorial combat. With its epic battles, extravagant visuals, and some truly outlandish creative choices, the film delivers an eye-popping spectacle—but at the cost of historical accuracy and narrative depth.
Trailer of “Gladiator II”
Plot & Setup
The original Gladiator (2000) ended with Maximus sacrificing himself for Rome, leaving little room for a direct sequel. But Hollywood never lets a franchise rest, and Gladiator II finds its way forward through Lucius, son of Lucilla (Connie Nielsen). Raised far from Rome, Lucius is eventually captured and enslaved, set to fight in the Colosseum. Meanwhile, Rome is under the rule of the cruel emperors Geta and Caracalla (Joseph Quinn & Fred Hechinger), and his personal vendetta grows against General Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal), his mother’s husband and the man responsible for his suffering.
Historical Accuracy? Who Needs That?
Anyone hoping for a faithful depiction of Roman history should check their expectations at the door. Ridley Scott has never been one for strict accuracy, but Gladiator II takes things to another level. The film invents details left and right—whether it’s Caracalla’s portrayal as an unhinged co-ruler (he actually ruled alone after killing his brother) or scenes of Romans reading newspapers in cafes, a detail so absurd it feels like a joke. But the real showstopper? A Colosseum flooded for naval battles… featuring sharks. Yes, sharks. While Romans did stage water-based spectacles, the idea of them wrangling great whites into an arena is pure fantasy.
Even more bizarre are the baboon-like creatures in the gladiatorial pits—oversized, hairless, and utterly terrifying. Scott’s explanation? “Alopecia. I saw a bald baboon in Africa once.” Make of that what you will.
Visual Brilliance & Action-Packed Mayhem
For all its historical liberties, Gladiator II is undeniably stunning. The opening battle sequences, featuring Acacius’s assault on Numidia, are grander than anything in the first film. CGI has come a long way since 2000, and Scott takes full advantage, crafting dazzling vistas and richly detailed set pieces. The color palette has also evolved—while Gladiator was bathed in cold, muted tones, this sequel embraces warm hues and sun-drenched splendor, making Rome feel more alive than ever.
The action set pieces are the film’s true highlight. Watching Lucius battle ferocious animals, warriors, and yes, a rhino ridden by a gladiator (because why not?) is undeniably thrilling. Scott understands spectacle better than most, and he delivers jaw-dropping moments that will leave audiences breathless.
When the Talking Starts…
While Gladiator II excels in action, it stumbles when it slows down. The political intrigue, once a key strength of the original, feels like an afterthought. Instead of a rich web of betrayal and ambition, we get a melodramatic family feud—Lucius vs. Acacius, mother vs. son, a grieving husband vs. his memories. The emotional weight simply isn’t there, making these scenes drag compared to the action-packed sequences.
One exception is Denzel Washington’s Macrinus, a cunning arms dealer with hidden ambitions. His presence electrifies the screen, and he may very well earn an Oscar nod for his performance. Unfortunately, he only truly steps into the spotlight in the film’s final act.
Final Verdict
Gladiator II is an over-the-top, visually spectacular sequel that thrives on spectacle but fumbles in storytelling. Historical purists will scoff, and those expecting a gripping political drama like its predecessor may be disappointed. But if you’re here for stunning visuals, grand battles, and sheer cinematic excess, it delivers in spades. The Romans would have loved it—and probably bet money on those sharks.
Watch Gladiator II on eBravoapp.