Gladiator II Debuts with Paul Mescal and Denzel Washington in Leading Roles

Ridley Scott returns with a sequel that combines thrilling spectacle with a touch of absurdity.

Paul Mescal stars as Lucius, an enslaved noble warrior seeking revenge, in the much-anticipated sequel to the original Gladiator.
Denzel Washington delivers a standout performance as Macrinus, a former slave turned gladiator master with complex motives.
Critics note the film's blend of grand spectacle and camp, with sharks and CGI creatures in the Colosseum adding to the entertainment.
While some see the film as formulaic, others appreciate its nod to historical epics and its commentary on power dynamics.
Paul Mescal discusses his evolving relationship with fame and the challenges of leading a major film like Gladiator II.