Gladiator II (2024) Movie Review

Synopsis:

Many years after witnessing Rome’s hero Maximus die in the arena, Lucius Verus (Paul Mascal), enters the Colosseum. With his strength, Lucius seeks to rid Rome of its tyrannical rule and restore glory to the Roman people.

Review:

Over 24 years later, director Ridley Scott gave audiences a sequel to Gladiator (2000). For many fans of the original, a sequel seemed unnecessary.

As a whole, Gladiator II fails to match the original’s story or themes. Despite this, it has entertaining action and visuals.

Throughout Gladiator II, Ridley Scott’s signature style of filmmaking is present. Gladiator II captures its many environments with cinematic, vibrant wide shots.

It is refreshing to see this style of filmmaking used, as opposed to CGI-heavy blockbusters.

While some of Gladiator II’s CGI is unrefined, it doesn't detract from the experience too much.

Gladiator II also has entertaining action sequences. These are as impactful as the first film, showcasing the brutality of Rome’s many gladiators.

This film’s main actor, Paul Mescal, is also believable during the action. He makes each hit seem forceful, making the action more impactful.

Gladiator II’s main strengths are its action and visuals. While its story is serviceable, it lacks the same energy and relatable themes as the first entry.

Without actors such as Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix, the story’s pacing suffers.

This is present in the film’s first half, which has a very melodramatic approach.

As an actor in this film, Paul Mescal has some decent moments. Despite this, he fails to match the same presence as Russell Crowe on screen.

Joining the cast of Gladiator II is The Mandalorian star, Pedro Pascal.

He portrays the Roman general, Acacius. With as little screen time as he has, Pedro gives a decent performance.

Returning actress Connie Nielsen, who portrays Lucilla, joins him. She gives her character the same gracefulness as was present in the original.

Also joining Gladiator II’s cast is award-winning American actor Denzel Washington. For context, he portrays the arms dealer, Macrinus.

Although his character is not expanded upon much, Denzel gives a capable performance.

Each time he is on screen, every other actor may as well be non-existent.

Though this role may not be one of his most memorable, Denzel is the film’s most competent actor. What is also competent is Harry Gregson-Williams’s original score.

For many fans, Hans Zimmer’s score of Gladiator was a standout. It included the German composer’s use of horns to create a memorable experience.

Harry Gregson-Williams, despite his best efforts, fails to reach those heights. Many of his themes lack the same intensity that Zimmer’s score had.

Williams uses similar-sounding themes to the first film, which fans might appreciate.

For those looking for an above-average score, Gladiator II should suffice.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Gladiator II has entertaining action and well-shot visuals. It captures many of its locales with clarity and vibrancy.

Though some of its CGI can be distracting, it doesn’t ruin the film. Gladiator II’s action is also good, with believable impact and brutality.

On a technical level, Gladiator II is more than competent. Where it has difficulty is with its pacing, themes, and underdeveloped characters.

Though Paul Mescal puts in a good effort during the action, his character of Lucius lacks screen presence. This becomes even more clear when he sits in a room next to Denzel Washington.

Pedro Pascal’s General Acacius, despite his limited time on screen, makes use of what he has.

It is also good to see that Connie Nielsen retains her graceful presence as Lucilla.

Gladiator II also has a serviceable score by Harry Gregson-Williams. Even though it lacks the presence of Hans Zimmer’s score, it has moments that entertain.

For those seeking a meaningful expansion of Gladiator’s universe, Gladiator II is not recommended.

Still, for those looking for entertaining action with good visuals, it would not hurt to watch Gladiator II.

Sam’s Action Reaction score:

Characters - 5.5/10

Story - 5.5/10

Action - 7/10

Visuals - 7.5/10

Soundtrack - 6.5/10

Overall score: 6.4 out of 10

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Gladiator (2000) Movie Review