News

Warning: This article contains spoilers for Gladiator 2.Gladiator 2 is Ridley Scott's latest historical epic, set many years after the events of the original movie and focusing on Lucius (Paul Mescal), who follows in the footsteps of Russell Crowe's previous protagonist Maximus, as he journeys back to Rome in order to learn the truth about Maximus' quest for democracy and enact revenge on the general who killed his wife. Gladiator 2's story is a powerful narrative about hope and self-sacrifice, much like the first, but is framed this time from the perspective of a young man wanting to fulfill the dream that his father set into motion.

The character of Lucius first appeared in the original Gladiator, where he was said to be the child of the Emperor's sister Lucilla (Connie Neilsen) and politician Lucius Verus. At the end of that film, Lucius unknowingly gives away Maximus' plot...

“Gladiator” was released back in 2000. “Gladiator II” finally hit theaters on Nov. 22, 2024. So it has been 24 years since director Ridley Scott‘s vision of ancient Rome was last on the big screen. Here’s what you need to remember about the first film before you head out to see the second.

How do I watch “Gladiator” right now?

You can watch the film for free if you subscribe to Paramount+ or Fubo. You can also rent the film online for $3.99 on Apple TV, Amazon, Fandango at Home, Microsoft, or Spectrum. It’s available to purchase digitally for $7.99 on Apple TV, Amazon, Fandango at Home, and Microsoft.

See‘Gladiator II’ production designer Arthur Max on rebuilding Rome for the sequel

What happened in “Gladiator”? (Spoilers)

The 2000 historical epic told the story of Maximus Decimus Meridius (Russell Crowe), who in the year 180 A.D. leads the Roman army and is named by...

Your browser does not support the video tag.

Gladiator II is the follow-up to Sir Ridley Scott's award-winning film Gladiator starring Russell Crowe. Twenty-four years later, Scott returns to direct the sequel, with Paul Mescal starring as Lucius, alongside Denzel Washington as Macrinus, and Joseph Quinn as the villain Emperor Geta. Connie Neilsen also returns to reprise the role of Lucilla.

The epic return to the Roman Empire is already on its way to becoming a box-office success. Opening weekend projections range from $60 million to $80 million, and that is just domestically. Director Sir Ridley Scott has declared that he has plans for Gladiator 3. In the meantime, Gladiator II is releasing in U.S. theaters on November 22.

Related Gladiator 2 Cast, Character & Cameo Guide

Gladiator 2's casts includes legendary actors and up-and-coming stars, continuing the story established by Ridley Scott's 2000 epic, Gladiator.

Screen Rant interviewed stars Connie Nielsen and Peter Mensah,...

Transformers One leads new releases at the UK and Ireland box office this weekend as the Paramount animation opens in 583 cinemas.

It is the third widest opening of the eight-title franchise, behind 2018’s Bumblebee in 587 locations and 2023’s Rise Of The Beasts in 595.

The franchise steps away from live-action for an animated origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron. A starry ensemble lends their voices with cast including Scarlett Johansson, Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Jon Hamm, Steve Buscemi and Keegan-Michael Key.

The Transformers films have a strong track record at the box office. Leading the pack is its third...

Gladiator II has massive shoes to fill upon its release. The initial movie came out in 2000, with the cast led by Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix. Over two and a half decades later, the story will definitely witness major changes in its characters and plot.

Russell Crowe in Gladiator (2000) | Credits: Universal Pictures

Ridley Scott’s first Gladiator film is one of the most successful projects during the 2000s. Impressively, it earned well over $460 million at the box office (via Entertainment Weekly), which was a huge deal twenty years ago. It managed to be nominated for twelve Academy Awards.

Russell Crowe, who acted as the lead character, General Maximus Decimus Meridius, won an Academy Award for Best Actor. Gladiator was voted Best Picture as well. The movie also won four Golden Globes and six BAFTA Awards.

Gladiator II Storyline:

[Spoiler]

The first movie features Russell Crowe as Maximus, a Roman General who...

Denzel Washington's role in Gladiator 2 as Macrinus will be a departure from his recent serious characters, showcasing a more jovial and snarky side. While Washington's character is more of a supporting role in Gladiator 2, his portrayal of a wealthy arms dealer with cruel tendencies adds depth to the story. Gladiator 2's trailer hints at Washington delivering a refreshing performance, blending humor and ego in a way that differs from his previous roles.

Denzel Washington has played myriad roles in the last decade, but none have been even remotely close to being similar to his Gladiator 2 part. Releasing over two decades after the first Gladiator movie, the Ridley Scott sequel film initially garnered some skepticism because of the director's recent critical and commercial failures. However, with its trailer, Gladiator 2 has defied expectations and made audiences hopeful that the sequel might turn out to be...

A talented ensemble cast has come together for espionage comedy thriller Role Play. And now we have a trailer.

While we’re looking forward to a shiny 4K release of James Cameron’s True Lies as you can bet that it’ll look the business, it’s fair to say that a contemporary viewing of the film won’t age as well in every degree.

Still, as a product of its time, it will be a hugely enjoyable watch… but if you’re looking for a more contemporary take on the ‘secret assassin comedy thriller’ genre, look no further than Role Play.

Bill Nighy and Connie Neilsen have major supporting roles while David Oyelowo and Kelly Cuoco star.

Selma star Oyelowo, and Kaley Cuoco – best known for her work in TV’s The Big Bang Theory – could make for quite the pairing as the film centres around a married couple...