GLADIATOR II – A Review by John Strange
I am always apprehensive when studios come out with sequels years after the first film. Most times I am disappointed with scripts that are simply poorly written. And then there are sequels where I sit in the theater and bask in the glow of a well-written, well-directed, beautifully acted film.
Set 16 years after Gladiator (2000), this new Ridley Scott film tells the tale of a Rome that has descended into chaos under the twin rulers, Emperors Geta (Joseph Quinn) and Caracalla (Fred Hechinger).
The film opens with General Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal) attacking and defeating the last major city-state in Africa. One of the slaves brought back for the gladiatorial games in the Colosseum, is “Hanno”. He was a leader in the city.
The story of Gladiator II is tightly linked to the first film with a few returning actors. One who will catch your eye is Connie Nielsen as Emperor Marcus Aurelius’ daughter Lucilla, now married to Maximus’ friend, General Marcus Acacius.
This is a beautifully convoluted story of revenge and honor that completes the story begun in Gladiator. The cinematography is gorgeous. Both the set and costume design are excellent. To my eye, this is a film that is best watched in IMAX, the way I saw it. It needs the larger-than-life screen to properly present this visual feast. It is a pleasure to watch for its entire two hours and 28 minutes.
Director: Ridley Scott
Cast: Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen, Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, Derek Jacobi, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Rory McCann, May Calamawy, Peter Mensah, Matt Lucas, Tim McInnerny
MPAA Rating: R (for strong bloody violence)
Selig Rating: 5 Stars
Runtime: 148 Min.
Release Date: 11/22/2024
Language: English
Genre: Action/Adventure Epic, Drama
Movie Site: GLADIATOR II Official Site
Trailer: GLADIATOR II Official Trailer
The Selig Rating Scale:
5 Stars – Excellent movie/show, well worth the time and price.
4 Stars – Good movie/show
3 Stars – OK movie/show
2 Stars – Well, there was nothing else…
1 Star – Total waste of time.
