Gladiator II is a 2024 epic historical drama directed by Ridley Scott, serving as a sequel to the 2000 Oscar winning film Gladiator. The film continues the saga of ancient Rome, focusing on Lucius Verus, the son of Lucilla and nephew of Commodus, portrayed by Paul Mescal.
Set approximately two decades after the original, Gladiator II follows Lucius, who has grown up away from Rome but is drawn back into its brutal politics and warfare. After his home is conquered by Roman forces led by the ambitious general Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal), Lucius is forced into slavery and becomes a gladiator. He must navigate the treacherous world of the Colosseum while confronting his past and seeking justice.
Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Directed by | Ridley Scott |
| Screenplay by | David Scarpa |
| Story by | Peter Craig, David Scarpa |
| Based on | Characters by David Franzoni |
| Produced by | Ridley Scott, Michael Pruss, Douglas Wick, Lucy Fisher, David Franzoni |
| Starring | Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Connie Nielsen, Denzel Washington |
| Cinematography | John Mathieson |
| Edited by | Claire Simpson, Sam Restivo |
| Music by | Harry Gregson-Williams |
| Production companies | Scott Free Productions, Red Wagon Entertainment |
| Distributed by | Paramount Pictures |
| Release dates | October 30, 2024 (Sydney), November 15, 2024 (United Kingdom), November 22, 2024 (United States) |
| Running time | 148 minutes |
| Countries | United Kingdom, United States |
| Language | English |
| Budget | $310 million (gross), $210 million (net) |
| Box office | $462.2 million |
Story/ Summary
Set over two decades after the fall of Emperor Commodus, Gladiator II follows the journey of Lucius Verus, the now-grown son of Lucilla and nephew of the late Commodus. Though once saved by the legendary gladiator Maximus, Lucius has since lived a quiet life far from Rome until his world is shattered.
When his homeland is invaded by the forces of General Marcus Acacius (played by Pedro Pascal), Lucius is captured and enslaved. Forced into the brutal world of gladiatorial combat, he must fight for survival in the very arena that once inspired him as a child.
But Lucius is more than just a warrior. He carries the legacy of Maximus in his heart, and the blood of emperors in his veins. As he rises through the ranks of the Colosseum, he becomes a symbol of rebellion against the growing tyranny in Rome.
Meanwhile, political tensions brew in the Empire. The corrupt elite, led by shadowy power players like Macrinus (Denzel Washington), are desperate to maintain control. But Lucius’ return to Rome threatens to expose long-buried secrets and ignite a revolution.
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Cast
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Paul Mescal | Lucius Verus (lead character) |
| Pedro Pascal | General Marcus Acacius |
| Denzel Washington | Macrinus (a wealthy power broker) |
| Connie Nielsen | Lucilla (Lucius’s mother) |
| Joseph Quinn | TBA (likely a Roman authority figure) |
| Fred Hechinger | TBA (rumored to play a co-emperor) |
| Derek Jacobi | Senator Gracchus (returning character) |
Note: Some roles are being kept under wraps for now, but these are the confirmed characters as of latest updates.
Expected Critical & Audience Response
⭐ Overall Rating: 5/5
