It hasn’t hit cinemas just yet, but critics lucky enough to see an advance screening are praising Ridley Scott’s Gladiator 2 as the film that’s going to earn him his third Academy Award.
The blockbuster, which is scheduled to be released on November 15, comes 24 years after Russell Crowe’s film, with the star’s legendary Maximus long gone and a new gladiator emerging.
Played by none other than, Normal People actor, Paul Mescal, 28, takes on the lead role of Lucius in Scott’s long-awaited follow-up feature, with Pedro Pascal and Denzel Washington also in the cast.
And while a trailer released in September got fans excited about what’s to come, particularly as Lucius is faced with only one option of fighting for his rights after being torn away from his wife and daughter, it seems the latest online chatter is giving fans even more reason to wish away the days.
Taking to X, Rotten Tomatoes-approved critic, Jillian Chili called the film an ‘absolute triumph’ and praised Ridley for his storytelling.
‘GLADIATOR 2 is an absolute triumph, Ridley Scott places you in the action of the arena centered on legacy and honor amping up the blood, battles, and biceps for something so deliciously cinematic and Machiavellian. Pedro Pascal, Paul Mescal, & Joseph Quinn certified movie stars,’ she said.
Variety’s Senior Awards Editor Clayton Davis, also weighed in on the film, stating the time of blockbuster movies is back.
‘Welcome back to the f*****g movies!’ he wrote. ‘That sums up #GladiatorII. Ridley Scott’s best directorial effort since “Black Hawk Down.” I found Paul Mescal’s work as Lucius to be one of the film’s most honest surprises. This is Denzel Washington, having the time of his life in one of his most killer roles yet.’
He continued to say: ‘A third Oscar could very well come his way. Sound, visuals, costumes, you name it, this movie’s got it. Another blockbuster the Academy can most definitely embrace. Let’s f**ing go!’
Elsewhere, entertainment writer for The Root, Shanelle Genai said: ‘No like I dont think yall understand.. #GladiatorII might actually be the best movie of the year to me & Im so sorry Ive watched a lot movies this year I dont mean to be hyperbolic but I cannot overstate HOW GOOD this film is RUN, DONT WALK to the theater on November 22!’
Producer, director and journalist Simon Thompson also had kind words for the film, writing: ‘#GladiatorII serves up the richest feast in the epic action set pieces and deliciously ribald treachery.
‘Dovetailing stylishly with the original, Paul Mescal leads a solid, stellar cast with aplomb. Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger are a collective powerhouse.’
Emmy-nominated producer and entertainment journalist Scott Mantz added: ‘GLADIATOR II is indeed the REAL DEAL! An epic sequel worthy of its Oscar-winning predecessor — great action, amazing visual effects, stellar performances across the board (esp. PAUL MESCAL & DENZEL WASHINGTON)! A return to form for director RIDLEY SCOTT! I was ENTERTAINED!’
It comes after a second trailer confirmed a bombshell fan theory relating to Mescal’s character.
A bombshell we are about to reveal, so if you don’t want any spoilers, click out now.
The trailer’s jaw-dropping moment reveals that Lucius is not the son of Lucius Verus, as he thought he was, but rather the son of Maximus, yes, Crowe’s character from the first film.
The shock revelation is uncovered to fans when Lucius’ mother Lucilla, played by Connie Nielsen, emotionally tells him before he goes into battle at the Colosseum: ‘Lucius, take your father’s strength. His name was Maximus. And I see him in you.’
The trailer then cuts to Maximus’ name carved into the wall, which Lucius touches before doing battle.
Gladiator 2 will be in cinemas from November 15.
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