Gladiator 2 review

Is Gladiator 2 worth the wait?

In a word, yes.

Ridley Scott's long-awaited sequel to his 2000 Oscar-winning epic Gladiator is a thrilling, action-packed adventure that delivers on all fronts.

Paul Mescal is excellent in the lead role as Lucius, the son of Maximus Decimus Meridius (Russell Crowe). Mescal brings a youthful energy and intensity to the role, and he convincingly portrays Lucius's journey from a naive young man to a hardened warrior.

The supporting cast is equally strong, with Denzel Washington giving a standout performance as Lucius's mentor, Antonius Proximo. Washington brings gravitas and wisdom to the role, and his chemistry with Mescal is undeniable.

Scott's direction is masterful, and he creates some truly stunning visuals, particularly in the film's action sequences. The battle scenes are brutal and visceral, but they're also beautifully choreographed and executed.

The script, by David Scarpa and Peter Craig, is well-written and engaging. It does a great job of balancing the film's action and drama, and it keeps the audience invested in the characters and their journey.

Overall, Gladiator 2 is a worthy successor to the original film. It's a thrilling, action-packed adventure that delivers on all fronts. Highly recommended.