Gladiator II: Ridley Scott's epic sequel sweeps critics away
After the special screening of Gladiator II, social media was flooded with praise for Ridley Scott's long-awaited sequel. Critics lauded the film for its epic scope, visual impact, and outstanding performances. Initially, internet users were filled with apprehension!
Many regard "Gladiator" as one of the most significant contemporary films, often watched several times. While some were thrilled by the prospect of a sequel, others were sceptical, if not outright hostile. This resulted in the phenomenon known as review bombing, where a wave of negative comments followed the trailer's initial release. However, the first viewers have now seen "Gladiator 2" and are impressed.
"Gladiator 2" - initial audience reactions
Nearly all American media cover reactions following the special screening at Paramount Studios. Although one viewer noted that the sequel is "largely uneven and lacks the emotional punch of the first film," most people praise the "epic movie" and speculate about potential Oscar wins for Ridley Scott and Denzel Washington.
Andrew J. Salazar of "Discussing Film" offered a more critical perspective, yet even he commended Scott's direction. "GLADIATOR II works best as an acting showcase for Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, & Joseph Quinn. It's largely uneven & lacks the emotional punch of the first film," Salazar wrote on platform X. "However, Ridley Scott's direction is unhinged, framing this as an epic Roman opera. The visuals get the job done," he added.
Jillian Chilingerian of "Offscreen Central" described the film as "an absolute triumph." "GLADIATOR 2 is an absolute triumph, Ridley Scott places you in the action of the arena centered on legacy and honor amping up the blood, battles,and biceps for something so deliciously cinematic and Machiavellian. Pedro Pascal, Paul Mescal, & Joseph Quinn certified movie stars," she highlighted in her post.
In another post, she added: "GLADIATOR 2 is Hamlet as a Roman political opera, a brutal bloody battle of power and corruption with performances possessing an emotional weight of movie stardom. I can’t believe Ridley pulled this off and its one of the few modern blockbusters that actually looks GOOD visually."
Griffin Schiller of "FilmSpeak" wrote: "Ridley Scott returns to the Colosseum to prove to the world that HE’S. STILL. GOT. IT. Absolutely BUZZING after #GladiatorII! An EPIC shakespearean tale of hope, futility & power w/in a crumbling system. Denzel FEASTS in a showstopping, Machiavellian performance. What a picture!"
"Gladiator II," whose UK premiere is on 15th November, tells the story of the adult Lucius (Paul Mescal). After witnessing the death of Maximus (Russell Crowe) at the hands of his uncle Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix) in the first film, Lucius is forced to fight in the Colosseum to restore glory to the Roman people.
