‘Gladiator II’ – An epic return to Rome

As Maximus Decimus Meridius fell at the end of his best picture-winning journey, it seemed that curtains had closed for good on the story of Gladiator. Now, 24 years later, the story inexplicably continues. His long-lost son Lucius, played by Paul Mescal, finds himself in an all-too-familiar predicament. Captured after the death of his wife, and forced into slavery. His only hope? Winning his freedom in the arena, and facing the ghosts of his past as he does.

Let’s get something out of the way: If you’re the type to be offended by historical inaccuracy in a film, skip this sequel and cosy yourself up to a nice 18-part documentary on a streaming service of your choice. This film is for the audience member willing to seriously suspend their disbelief for a chance to witness the tenacity of the human spirit, against foes in the form of baboons with nashing razor sharp teeth, rhinos the size of tanks, and a coliseum retrofitted to be an aquarium filled with man eating sharks.

Gladiator II isn’t just a trek through the animal kingdom, though the blend of digital effects and live action stunt work creates a magnificent cinematic illusion that’s undeniably impressive. Lucius’ greater threat comes from the oppressive might of Rome, a force he can’t simply hack and slash his way through.

The film is equal parts action epic and political thriller, with its more impactful character moments rooted in the latter. It features multiple villains, each with varying levels of nuance. There are the mad twin emperors, played by Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger who are one note but infinitely compelling. Pedro Pascal’s General Marcus Acacius, a man who takes no pleasure in violence but is bound by duty to his people and his wife. Perhaps most complex is Denzel Washington’s Macrimus, a former slave risen to a position of power driven by revenge.

Several times Gladiator II will steer its story one way, only for the characters to take a turn. It’s not jarring, as the more you learn about them, the more willing you are to go with the movie on its epic and twisted journey. At the same time, some moments are utterly sincere cutting through the noise. It’s been some time since movies could be resolved with one impassioned speech to armies that only moments ago were willing to tear each other’s heads off.

Gladiator II for many will be a mixed bag. The action is both over the top, and incredibly grounded. The characters can be simplistic, yet some are complex. The story can feel overly familiar, but in a way that feels refreshing. At the very least, it has incredible performances, most notably from Joseph Quinn and Denzel Washington, and some jaw-dropping sequences with incredible direction and dazzling cinematography. By the end, you’ll have to answer the question: Were you not entertained?

Rating: Big screen watch

Damian Levy is a film critic and podcaster for Damian Michael Movies.