Gladiator (2000) won the Oscar for Best Picture in 2001, among many other wins and nominations that year. For the many fans of the award-winning film, Ridley Scott returns to directing Gladiator II from the screenplay written by David Franzoni (of the original film), Peter Craig (Top Gun: Maverick) and David Scarpa (Napoleon). Many people may have seen the first film at least once. Although not essential, it is suggested to rewatch it perhaps to remember who the original characters are and what was going on in Rome at the time (attacking and conquering lands) and other violent traditions. As can be seen in the sequel, the violence and greed continue years after Marcus Aurelius’s (Richard Harris) death.
People of diverse backgrounds are living peacefully in North Africa, as is noted by a handsome young couple in an opening scene. Jolted out of their tranquility, they dress in combat gear. Roman forces led by General Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal) are approaching in many battle ships, yet the waterfront community was prepared for such an attack. Despite their best efforts fighting from behind the fort, there is loss of life and prisoners are taken. Among the defending warriors is the strong and determined man (with a given name by locals) who helped lead the battle and latter, does not speak to Romans when asked to identify himself or his background.
The men are transported to Rome, where they are evaluated for their strength and abilities to knock each other out. This display is for a wealthy and corrupt man, Macrinus (Denzel Washington in a role he is perfect for). He selects those who he deems best to fight as gladiators in the famous Colosseum. Macrinus keeps a watchful eye on the one who stands out and is taken aback by what he says when he does speak. At this point, Macrinus suspects there is more to this gladiator than just brute strength.
In the title role, the warrior turned gladiator is the Irish actor, Paul Mescal (All of Us Strangers, and Aftersun). His real name is Lucius, the son of Lucilla (Connie Nielsen) who as a child was sent away from Rome for safety after what is seen in the first film.
Rome is currently led by Geta (Joseph Quinn, “Stranger Things”) and Caracalla (Fred Hechinger, Thelma, Nickel Boys). These two actors have great performances that are ones to watch as they show viewers their dramatic acting talent and appear quite unhinged. Acacius (Pascal), married to the bejeweled Lucilla, has been a successful general and is tired of what the two “leaders” want – bloodshed – and he has a plot. Macrinus has ears everywhere and learns something, so he speeds up a move to advance his agenda. He does so with the help of Senator Gracchus (Derek Jacobi) and Thraex (Tim McInnerny) who loves to bet and is in heavy debt to Macrinus. There is no doubt the film has a theme of politics at the core, who has the power, who wants it and what they will do to take the reigns of the empire.
Lucius has injuries as a gladiator and bonds with Ravi (Alexander Karim, Young Woman and the Sea, “Tyrant” TV series), a former gladiator who now provides healing for Lucius (and others). Trust is established and is an instrumental ally. Paul Mescal gives an outstanding performance to watch. This is a very satisfying sequel, and it is rated R for strong, bloody violence. Running time: 150 minutes
Source: Paramount Pictures
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