Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II: Champion Of Legacy Sequels?
Mr Snidbits Reviews
It’s not often that a legacy sequel manages to grab my attention, let alone make me truly care about the characters, but Ridley Scott has pulled it off with Gladiator II, and I was completely captivated. The current political climate only adds to the rich tapestry of this story, making it even easier to immerse myself in.
While the plot feels like a familiar retread—something to be expected with a title like this—the film excels at making me root for Hanno. He’s smart, tough, and a formidable fighter. Watching Pedro Pascal portray the general is always a treat; he adds incredible depth to the role. The Twin Emperors? They are a terrifying and brutal pair, taking their insanity to new heights, and it’s evident they relished in the chaos. Denzel Washington delivers a masterclass in villainy with Macrinus, blending charm with a devilish edge. It’s fascinating to see him step away from roles like Alonzo in Training Day; this villain is cold and calculating but plays his cards close to his chest until the perfect moment. The contrast between his two performances is striking.
The battle scenes are nothing short of spectacular, and the use of the Colosseum is both entertaining and, as far as I can tell, quite historically accurate. Sharks in the Colosseum? Absolutely outrageous! And the terror of fighting baboons? Epic in every sense of the word.
The recreation of Rome is stunningly authentic. You can almost feel the grit and the stench of the city—it’s all beautifully captured in the production design, making the world feel lived-in and real.
All in all, Gladiator II is a thrilling ride and surprisingly inspiring. I have to say, it ranks among the few legacy sequels that I genuinely enjoy.
Gladiator II is available on Digital, Physical Copy, and streaming on MGM+
About The Author
