Gladiator, the Oscar-winning epic historical drama from the early ’00s, is getting a sequel! Yep, Gladiator 2 is officially happening.
Directed by Ridley Scott, the original film was set in ancient Rome and showcased the story of Maximus Decimus Meridius, a skilled general in the Roman army. The film featured Russell Crowe in the lead role and Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen and Oliver Reed in supporting roles.
Crowe won the Oscar for his performance, while Phoenix was nominated for his.
While the Gladiator sequel won’t feature Crowe or Phoenix, it does have a star-studded ensemble in its own right. The Last of Us and The Mandalorian star Pedro Pascal and Normal People‘s Paul Mescal are a part of the Gladiator 2’s cast. And, the first look of the film, released by Vanity Fair, has fans craving more details about the film.
With all the hype surrounding Gladiator 2, here’s a lowdown on its plot, cast and release date.
What will be the storyline of ‘Gladiator 2’?
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The original Gladiator tells the story of Maximus Decimus Meridius, a skilled general in the Roman army. After the death of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, Maximus finds himself betrayed by Commodus, the power-hungry and corrupt heir to the throne. Commodus murders his father and seizes power, forcing Maximus into slavery. He then becomes a gladiator and rises through the ranks, captivating the Roman crowds with his impressive combat skills. Maximus is also seeking revenge against Commodus and aims to restore Rome to its former glory.
The plot of Gladiator 2 will pick up in the years after the original events and focus on Lucius, the son of Lucilla and the nephew of Commodus. The audience will be introduced to the grown-up Lucius, who now has a wife and child, and lives a peaceful life until invaders encroach.
The star-studded cast of ‘Gladiator 2’
Just like the original film, Gladiator 2 will be directed by Ridley Scott.
Oscar-nominee Paul Mescal will play Lucius. His intense physical transformation for the film has taken the internet by storm. Meanwhile, Pedro Pascal takes on the role of Marcus Acacius, a Roman general said to have trained under Russell Crowe’s Maximus from the prequel.
Other cast members include Connie Nielsen, Denzel Washington, Barry Keoghan and Joseph Quinn.
When is ‘Gladiator 2’ releasing?
Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal in ‘GLADIATOR 2’ pic.twitter.com/xtwVTvc7dZ
— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) July 1, 2024
Gladiator 2 will release in theatres on 22 November 2024. The first trailer for the film will be released on 9 July 2024.
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(Hero and feature image credit: Courtesy IMDb/Gladiator)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, the Gladiator sequel is in the works. Called Gladiator 2, it will premiere in 2024.
No, Russell Crowe will not be a part of Gladiator 2.
Yes, Pedro Pascal has joined the star-studded cast of Gladiator 2.
Gladiator 2 will premiere in theatres on 22 November 2024.
