Okay, we had no idea Denzel Washington was starring in Gladiator II but Vanity Fair has unveiled new first-look photos, and now we’re hooked. The images feature Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, and Denzel Washington. Gladiator II will be released from Paramount Pictures on November 22, 2024.
The film’s story that takes place well after the original Russell Crowe story.
Pascal is a military commander turned gladiator as punishment.
Denzel is a former slave who is now a wealthy merchant who does not like the emperors.
Quinn plays Emperor Geta. It will be interesting to see how his portrayal differs from the cold and diabolical Commodus, played by Joaquin Phoenix in the first Gladiator.
Connie Nielsen appears to be the lone returning major cast member from the original, playing Lucius’ mother Lucilla.
It’s uncertain if Phoenix or Crowe will appear in flashbacks or dream sequences since they both pretty much died in the first film, but the focus is primarily on the new cast and Mescal’s character, Lucius.
As for Ridley Scott, who directed the original Gladiator, he has had a varied filmography in recent years. His last major film, Napoleon, received mixed reviews, and his press tour sparked debate over the importance of historical accuracy. However, Scott has also directed The Last Duel, The Martian, and episodes of Raised by Wolves, showing his versatility in the television space.
First, look at the images below.
Gladiator II, feels like a must-watch when it hits theaters on November 22.
