As anticipation builds for the upcoming sequel, Gladiator II, we delve into the details surrounding this follow-up to Ridley Scott's critically acclaimed 2000 blockbuster. The original film, starring Russell Crowe as a Roman general betrayed and sold into slavery, captivated audiences worldwide, earning over $460 million and garnering 12 Academy Award nominations, winning five, including Best Picture and Best Actor. With such monumental success, the sequel certainly has big sandals to fill.
What’s the Title?
Initially referred to as the Untitled Gladiator Sequel or Gladiator 2, Paramount Pictures officially announced that the title is stylized as Gladiator 2 2024 during CinemaCon in April.
Who’s in the Cast?
Paul Mescal, known for his role in Aftersun, will portray Lucius, the grown son of Lucilla (Connie Nielsen) and nephew of Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), who was played as a child by Spencer Treat Clark in the original film. Nielsen is reprising her role in the sequel, having expressed her desire to return in a 2020 interview with Entertainment Weekly.
According to Vanity Fair, following the events of the first film, Lucilla sent Lucius to Numidia, on the northern coast of Africa, to protect him from the corruption of Roman society. However, Lucius is inevitably drawn back into the fray when Roman forces, led by General Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal), invade Numidia, capturing him and forcing him into the arena. Denzel Washington joins the cast as Macrinus, a wealthy arms dealer who uses gladiators for sport.
Additionally, Fred Hechinger plays Emperor Caracalla, a role originally intended for Barry Keoghan, who dropped out due to scheduling conflicts. The megalomaniacal essence of Commodus persists in the twin emperors Caracalla and Geta (Joseph Quinn), who serve as the main antagonists. Legacy cast member Derek Jacobi is also returning as Gracchus, with several other stars involved whose roles remain undisclosed, including May Calamawy, Lior Raz, Peter Mensah, and Matt Lucas.
Spoiler Alert!
In the first film, Maximus ultimately defeated Commodus in the Colosseum and died from his injuries. As both characters have met their fates, it's unlikely they will appear in the sequel. Crowe has hinted at his absence, stating in a Collider interview, "The only thing that I really feel about it is slightly jealous, you know?" Nevertheless, Hollywood's penchant for surprise could mean a ghostly cameo or flashback is not entirely off the table, echoing Maximus' famous words: "What we do in life, echoes in eternity."
Is Ridley Scott Returning to Direct?
Yes, Ridley Scott, who received an Oscar nomination for Best Director for the original film, will direct Gladiator II. He is also producing the film alongside Michael Pruss through his production company, Scott Free. Other producers include Douglas Wick and Lucy Fisher from Red Wagon Entertainment, with David Franzoni contributing as a producer. Raymond Kirk and Nigel Wooll are on board as executive producers.
Several talented artists from the original Gladiator are also returning, including cinematographer John Mathieson, production designer Arthur Max, and costume designer Janty Yates.
Who is Writing the Screenplay?
While the original film’s screenplay was crafted by David Franzoni, John Logan, and William Nicholson, David Scarpa is taking the reins for this sequel. Scarpa is known for his work on The Day the Earth Stood Still and The Man in the High Castle, along with previous collaborations with Scott on projects like All the Money in the World and Napoleon.
Is There a Trailer or Footage?
The first trailer introduces the major characters and their political ambitions, showcasing the power-hungry twin emperors alongside Washington’s Macrinus, who appears to have more influence than initially anticipated. It also teases Lucius’ quest for revenge against General Acacius, as well as naval and rhino battles within the Colosseum.
A second trailer reveals a significant twist: Lucius is actually the son of Maximus (as portrayed by Crowe in the first film) and not Lucius Verus I, a misconception he's held throughout his life. This revelation carries considerable implications for both films, enriching the narrative surrounding Maximus' legacy highlighted in the sequel’s promotional material.
While the first footage was showcased at CinemaCon 2025, it has not yet been publicly released. For further insights into what Entertainment Weekly witnessed and what it means for the film, readers can explore their detailed coverage.
When Does It Come Out?
Gladiator II is slated for release in theaters on November 22, 2024. As we await its arrival, excitement continues to grow for what promises to be a monumental continuation of the epic tale that captured the hearts of millions.