Ridley Scott’s 2000 Best Picture directorial work Gladiator was a seminal moment in 21st century cinema. Oscar winner Russel Crowe’s broody Maximus made an impression on filmgoers. Gladiator 2 arrived in cinemas this week. It is best to leave well enough alone. This come twenty-four years later sequel is an out of sync spectacle.
Paul Mescal has some big sandals to fill as Lucius, the less brutal, more pondering vengeful son of Maximus. Not lacking in the spirit of role but lacking the grit, the Irish actor looked as if he was learned how to swim without an instructor for the first time.
Denzel Washington as the scheming Macrinus was relishing his role at times the twice Academy Award earner overshadowed a cast that came off as having taken a high dosage of Xanax.
The Wikipedia referenced script has the usual assortment of Roman Empire intrigue for the civic crown. I, Claudius captured these characters better.
Scott plays well with the visual, too bad the whole Gladiator 2 was just a lot of humdrum separate parts.
2.5/5 stars.
Gladiator 2 is in European Cinemas. Running Time: 2 hours 28 mins.
Release Date in the US on November 22nd.