Rumors of a sequel to Ridley Scott’s historical epic “Gladiator” have long persisted. The wildest reports about the film’s plot were circulating, there would even have been ideas for a time travel plot. But now it has become known that “Gladiator 2” is actually coming. Instead of Russell Crowe, however, this time shooting star and Oscar-nominated actor Paul Mescal (“Aftersun”) will tie his sandals and take up sword and shield. Now it has also become known when we can expect the sequel in the cinemas.
Paramount has announced that Gladiator 2 will hit theaters on November 22, 2024. Fans of historical action interludes and breakneck chariot races will therefore have to wait a little longer before they can once again cheer on the arena fighters in the cinema in the sequel to the legendary sandal film.
Paul Mescal will not replace Russell Crowe
For fans who feared that another actor would take on the role of the infamous gladiator Maximus, who brought world fame (and an Oscar) to Russell Crowe in the first episode, there is peace of mind. Although “Gladiator 2” is supposed to tie in with the first part, it doesn’t continue the story directly, but instead takes a giant leap in time. So the recast Paul Mescal won’t choose Crowe’s role. Instead, the coveted newcomer slips into the role of Lucius Versus – son of Lucilla (Connie Nielsen) and cousin of Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), who was 13 years old in the first part (playing Spencer Treat Clark).
Versus always looked up to Gladiator Maximus (Russel Crowe) in the first part. The sequel, set 25 years later, builds on that admiration – after all, forced gladiator Maximus Lucius had saved his mother while seeking revenge for the murder of his own family. Versus has not forgotten the aura of Maximus and now wants to prove himself worthy of his role model.
not see Crowe again
Russell Crowe won’t be returning, though – if you still have the events of the first part in mind, you shouldn’t be surprised. However, there has been speculation whether the superstar could reappear in a digitally rejuvenated flashback or dream sequence. Russell Crowe has now shattered these fan dreams himself.
While the New Zealand actor doesn’t have to prove himself in the arena this time around, we’re still excited about Gladiator 2 and hoping that Ridley Scott’s latest foray into antiquity can breathe new life into the antiquated sandal genre. movie. Incidentally, “Gladiator 2” does not yet have a German start date, but we expect to see the film in cinemas in Germany shortly after the US release.