Sometimes a sequel is announced that makes everyone sit back and wonder why. Often because the first movie told the entire story which leads to the question of is there something new here or is it a simple cash grab? These are the thoughts that crossed my mind when Gladiator II was announced as it seemed to be a case of, “because nobody demanded it.” Don’t get me wrong, the trailers seemed fun, and I love the actors in it, but was this really needed? I don’t think it was but after watching it, I can definitely say it’s something wanted and is extremely well-made and an absolute blast.
Sixteen years after Marcus Aurelius’ death, we are introduced to Hanno (Paul Mescal) who is immediately thrust into a fight against a Roman invasion of his home Numidia. Sadly, the Romans succeed not only in conquering the city, but also killing his wife in the battle. Not only that, he is captured and sold into slavery. His rage at getting revenge against the general who led the attack, Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal) piques the interest of Macrinus (Denzel Washington) who purchases Hanno and promises him Marcus’ head if he becomes his gladiator champion in the Coliseum. Hanno accepts, and as his triumphs in the stadium earn him glory, it also attracts the attention of the corrupt Roman Emperors and begins to lift Macrinus’ esteem with them which is exactly what he needs to exact his Machiavellian plan. As the stakes continue to climb, Hanno must figure out if bloodlust or freedom is his ultimate goal, as his survival will depend on that decision.
In my previous review of Wicked, I stated that those familiar with the source material will be happier with it than those going in blind, however, nothing could be further from the truth here. Whether you have seen the first Gladiator or not is irrelevant to how much you will enjoy this. Yes, you will glean a lot more from the story having watched the first, but it’s easy enough to follow and does enough of its own thing that it’s not a requirement.
That said, it does lead me to my one gripe which is that this feels like two movies shoved together. The first half plays out, beat for beat, like the original film. Nothing new happens, and it makes you wonder why they bothered with this in the first place. Sure, we have some fantastic actors in new roles, but it never shows us anything we haven’t seen before. This all changes in the middle of the second act, and that’s where the film really begins to unfold in earnest.
Even then, it’s not that novel of a story (revenge flicks are a dime a dozen), but its evolution is captivating. The set pieces and how they chronicle the battles in the Coliseum never let your adrenaline stop pumping, and each new challenge for Hanno is different and interesting. This is spectacle at its finest, and while we don’t really get to see anyone grow or mature, that’s really not what we are here for. We want violence, treachery, and glory!
All of this to say that, yes, you need to run out and see this as soon as possible, especially in IMAX. On the big screen, you simultaneously feel like a participant and spectator as you watch the war between the gladiators unfold, and it’s an exhilarating experience. It’s also smart enough to focus on the spectacle and not get bogged down by unnecessary exposition. Wonderfully shot, directed, and acted, this feels like as an early, blood-soaked holiday present that is begging to be unwrapped. It might not be the most unique movie currently in theaters, but it’s definitely one of the most fun.