All roads lead to ancient Rome this weekend as Ridley Scott debuts his highly awaited sequel, ‘Gladiator II‘.
The film made a thunderous return to cinemas and those who lined up for an early screening of the film, have had only positive things to say. Twitter has been flooded with glowing reviews of the highly anticipated sequel, which viewers praised for staying true to the grandeur of the 2000 original while also introducing powerful new elements, from epic battle scenes to standout performances led by leading men Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal and Joseph Quinn.
With its compelling mix of ‘brutal’ action, political intrigue, and impressive performances, the sequel is being touted as one of the ‘best films of the year’. Many fans have highlighted Scott’s direction as one of the sequel’s crowning achievements. One viewer declared, “Ridley Scott shows us why he’s one of the best directors in film. Gladiator II is a masterclass in filmmaking… Truly breathtaking!”
Another echoed similar sentiments, noting that while the film may not “redefine cinema like the original,” it still delivers “epic action, gorgeous visuals, and deep emotions,” with Scott proving yet again that he can bring history to life.
Another tweeted, “#GladiatorII is the definition of lavish cinema from its action, costumes, and performances. Had my adrenaline going from the opening credits alone. Scott brings together one of the best ensembles of the year. It’s drenched with political corruption and heroic declarations.”
Still another added, “THE BEST MUSIC IN THE MASTERPIECE #GladiatorII IS OF EPIC AND BRUTAL ORCHESTRA AND THAT MUSIC GIVES SERIOUSNESS TO THE MOVIE, HERE NO GARBAGE SONGS OF 1999-2024 JAJAJAJAJAJA, THE ENTIRE MOVIE IS SERIOUS AND DARK, IT IS ONE OF THE BEST MOVIES OF THE YEAR”
“Gladiator II was a solid and great sequel to the first classic movie. I really enjoyed the epic scale, action, visuals, and performances,” read a tweet, while another chimed in agreement, “Gladiator II is an epic action-packed blockbuster filled with gobsmacking battles, swordsational excitement and mesmerising performances.”
“Ridley Scott and the whole cast and crew have made something very special!”
Denzel Washington, who takes on a pivotal role, has captivated audiences, with many fans applauding his powerful on-screen presence. “Denzel Washington is electric throughout, chewing up every piece of scenery in his way,” one user wrote, with another adding, “Denzel should win an Oscar for his role.”
Praise for the cast extends to Joseph Quinn, who some say “steals the show” despite Washington’s dominance, while others lauded leading man Paul Mescal for bringing his own depth to the epic narrative. “Paul Mescal and Sir Ridley Scott – the perfect pairing for cinematic greatness,” read a tweet.
Another said, “#GladiatorII is a gripping, intense sequel with emotional depth and timely anti-colonial themes. #RidleyScott proves his genius again, and #PaulMescal is a standout discovery. One of my favorite films this year!
The film’s production design, costumes, and adrenaline-pumping soundtrack also left fans in awe. “Gladiator II is the definition of lavish cinema… Scott brings together one of the best ensembles of the year,” commented one viewer, while another hailed the “epic and brutal orchestra” that “gives seriousness to the movie.”
Gladiator II builds on the legacy of the original film, which won five Oscars, including Best Actor for Russell Crowe. This film sees Mescal taking on the role of Lucius, and following the legacy of Crowe’s Maximus. Known for his breakout role in ‘Normal People’ and acclaimed performances in ‘All of Us Strangers’, this is Mescal’s first lead role in a major blockbuster.
Set 16 years after Maximus’ death, ‘Gladiator II’ follows Lucius, a prisoner transported to Rome after his homeland is conquered by Roman General Acacius, played by Pedro Pascal. Mescal’s character impresses Denzel Washington’s cunning Macrinus, who forces Lucius to fight as a gladiator, setting the stage for intense Colosseum battles.
Meanwhile, Acacius and his wife Lucilla, reprised by Connie Nielsen, are embroiled in a plot to overthrow the emperors Geta and Caracalla, played by Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger.
