Ridley Scott’s latest historical epic, Gladiator II, has been met with skepticism from historians and fans alike. The director’s brush-off of criticisms, likening them to pedantry, only serves as a reminder that accuracy in a movie set in the past matters. The film’s numerous historical errors have led to questions about its plausibility.
In the trailer, the depiction of tamed rhinos being ridden is particularly egregious, as it defies common sense and ignores historical records. The Colosseum, central to the film, was unlikely to be flooded and used for a mock sea battle, given its structural limitations. The lavish spread of inaccuracy in the full movie only adds to the skepticism.
One notable scene featuring Denzel Washington’s Macrinus, based on a real person from Mauretania, is marred by anachronistic elements, including coffee and tea cups. Roman historians Mary Beard and Keith Hopkins have disputed the notion that gladiatorial games involved violent crowds, suggesting instead that audiences might have resembled those at modern opera houses.
In contrast to his previous film, Gladiator II takes a wonky approach to following its predecessor’s beats, resulting in inconsistencies and character motivations that don’t add up. Historical inaccuracies may be forgivable if the story is compelling, but when it comes to Gladiator II, doubts about everything else flood in.
One glimmer of hope lies in Paul Mescal’s fight scenes, which showcase his skill as an actor. Nonetheless, fans should stick to Ridley Scott’s original Gladiator for a superior historical epic.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2024/nov/19/gladiator-ii-ridley-scott-historical-inaccuracies-rhinos