⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (out of 5 stars)
Admittedly, I’ve been a fanboy of Ridley Scott throughout his career. From Blade Runner to The Martian, his films have consistently engaged audiences and shown his commitment to making great options for the cinema. Granted, there have been career lows to counter his resounding success and innovative vision, but few directors can match his ability to direct across genres and generations.
Gladiator was one highlight for Scott that continues to show how it continues to entertain as a classic film that introduced the world to iconic figures such as Maximus Decimus Meridius (Russell Crowe) and the villainous Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix). Despite giving the reins to the Alien and Blade Runner franchises to other directors, the responsibility of directing the sequel to this Academy Award winner was left in the hands of the master. Soon after the conclusion of the previous film and the death of Maximus, the son of Lucilla (Connie Nielsen) and, Maximus is sent away for his own safety.
Eventually, Lucius (Paul Mescal) makes his way to Numidia, and he becomes a trusted leader within the country’s army. When General Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal) and the Roman army invade his land, Lucius is taken captive by the invaders. He is sold to gladiator trainer and political influencer, Macrinus (Denzel Washington). He uses his combat skills to become a popular warrior in the Colosseum battles organised by young emperors Caracalla (Joseph Quinn) and Geta (Fred Hechinger). As he plots his revenge, Lucius must come to terms with his namesake and the legacy of his family who came before him.
As a devoted Ridley Scott fan, a sequel to Gladiator was inevitable. Ultimately, this chapter does entertain despite being a mere shadow of its predecessor. As the screenplay is woven with the whispers from the original storyline, these elements try to tap into the glory of the 2000 classic with admirable but less than convincing results. Mescal and Pascal bring the charisma needed to carry a film of warriors and gladiators. Each fulfils his role and delivers the necessary monologues to inspire their warrior counterparts and the audience's hearts. Also, Scott’s penchant for grand scale complements this film in the battlefields and the fights within the arena.
Yet, these scenes are reminiscent of many of the director's former projects and become formulaic in the outing. Something that could be said about the whole film, except there are some glaring weaknesses to this tale of the demise of the Roman Empire. The first would be the twin emperors, who pale compared to Joaquin Phoenix’s Commodus. Both actors do their best to embody these lecherous leaders, except they both come off as mere caricatures of their predecessors. Still, the biggest problem with this film will seem sacrilegious to many. Still, it needs to be said that Denzel Washington was miscast. This fantastic actor has a long-running working relationship with Ridley Scott, and many of their previous collaborations have been outstanding, but that cannot be said of this film. Not that his performance derails the production; instead, he seems out of place throughout the story and causes his role to feel forced.
That's not to say Gladiator II isn’t worth seeing. On the contrary, Ridley Scott has managed to deliver an entertaining film that is an admirable follow-up to a classic. The film's strengths counterbalance the weaknesses and will give audiences exactly what they would hope for in an action-adventure that fans of the legendary filmmaker will give a thumbs up to its inclusion in this franchise.
REEL DIALOGUE: Living up to your name
Lucius wrestles with his destiny as Rome's potential leader. He rejects it and his family, but things change throughout the story. Yet, it is odd to consider modern society. We all want to rule our own lives and don't like the idea of kings or emperors. Still, is there a king worth following today?
The Bible is loaded with various kings, from Saul to David to Solomon, but none of these kings held the title of King of Kings. This label was only given to the Messiah and is one of the many names of Jesus. Like Lucius, he knew his birthright and the part he would play as the centrepiece of history.
That is quite a bit to ponder, but an even deeper notion to consider from the apostle Paul's letter to the Romans is that followers of Christ are co-heirs with Christ.
“Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” Romans 8:17
These revelations are interesting things to consider. The first is the notion of Jesus being Lord of your life. If you understand that he is the one true King, were you aware that that makes you a co-heir to the Kingdom? It is daunting to assume that he shares the keys of the Kingdom with you, but understand that this privilege goes well beyond becoming a gladiator or conquering Rome.
