'Ridley Scott does it again': Will Stone reviews 'Gladiator II'

Paul Mescal as Lucius | Image by: BFA / Alamy Stock Photo

Will Stone

@WStone4SN

I will start with saying I am a massive Gladiator fan – the first movie was brilliant – so I went into watching number two with some scepticism. Could it live up to the original? Was there a need for a sequel? The answer quite simply is: yes! Ridley Scott has done it again. This is a cinematic masterpiece, with fantastic acting and a gripping plot including political intrigue and of course plenty of action.

It has beautifully shot fight scenes with incredible choreography that match the first movie. Given that action is at the heart of this film, all the gladiatorial sequences are unique and thrilling to watch. Visually this movie is truly a joy, unless you are averse to a bit of blood and gore. The sets, wardrobe and props are very detailed and stunning to look at. As the viewer, you feel immersed in ancient Rome.

It has beautifully shot fight scenes with incredible choreography

It has an original story which kept me on the edge of my seat. As mentioned, the acting is top notch, and it is great to see some big household names as well as some slightly lesser-known (at least to me) talent. Obviously we expect nothing short of amazing from the likes of Denzel Washington and Pedro Pascal, but Paul Mescal and Fred Hechinger weren’t on my radar prior to seeing the film – they most certainly are now. I’m looking forward to seeing more of them in the future.

The film manages to capture the essence of the original movie without being a cut-and-paste job. While it pays homage to some of the most iconic scenes from the first Gladiator movie, no doubt pleasing the original fans, this one might – dare I say it – be even better. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Watching the film leaves me with two questions. Firstly, is there going to be a Gladiator III? I really hope so. They have left the storyline open enough to warrant one. And secondly, given Mescal’s accomplished delivery of a leading action role, could he be Marvel’s next Wolverine? I think he would be a great casting choice based on his physical performance in Gladiator II.

My only slight criticism – and this really is a minor thing – is that there are a couple of questionable animal CGIs in the film but nothing major. All in all, a cracking movie, I’d give it a 9.5/10 and highly recommend you go to see it. 

Will Stone is Labour MP for Swindon North

Gladiator II
Directed by: Ridley Scott
Venue: General cinema release

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