Ridley Scott returns with “Gladiator II,” a sequel that, while not as groundbreaking as its predecessor, still delivers on its promise of epic battles and visceral thrills. The film is a solid piece of neoclassical popcorn, with Paul Mescal, 24 years after Russell Crowe’s iconic performance, bringing a fresh take to the role.
Mescal plays Lucius Verus, a descendant of Maximus, without trying to emulate Crowe’s intensity. Instead, he brings a rugged nobility and idealism that makes him a potential savior for Rome. The film’s standout is Denzel Washington, who plays Macrinus, a complex character with a Shakespearean flair. His performance is the wild card that keeps the movie engaging.
The story follows Lucius as he’s captured by Roman forces and forced to become a gladiator. Along the way, he forges an unlikely bond with his mother, Lucilla (Connie Nielsen), and rises up against the corrupt emperors. While Mescal doesn’t quite replicate Crowe’s raw emotion, he finds a new path forward that works within the movie.
“Gladiator II” may not be as great as its predecessor, but it’s still entertaining in its own right. With its epic battles, lavish decapitations, and tony escapism, it delivers on the promise of an action-packed ride. While it may feel like a sequel to another sequel (such as “Joker 2”), it remains a solid addition to the franchise, even if it doesn’t quite live up to the original’s magic.
Source: https://variety.com/2024/film/reviews/gladiator-2-review-paul-mescal-denzel-washington-pedro-pascal-ridley-scott-1236204115