While its release is just around the corner, early reviews have begun to roll in for Gladiator II. So far, the early consensus is leaning heavily towards positive. 

Gladiator II follows in the footsteps of the original film 24 years ago. The first Gladiator saw Russell Crowe play Maximus, a general highly trusted by the ruling Emperor. But in the wake of his death, his successor strips Maximus of his title, forcing him to flee and take up arms as a gladiator. 

The sequel finds a young man, played by Paul Mescal, taking inspiration from Maximus and trying to push back against the tyranny beginning to threaten all he holds dear. 

Among the positive reactions that have started to pour in, praise has been given to all aspects that the film presented. Simon Thomson praised the talents at work on screen, specifically stars Denzel Washington, Fred Hechinger, and Joseph Quinn, calling them “a collective powerhouse.” 

Similarly, several of the early reactions, according to Hollywood Reporter, praised the directing talent of Ridley Scott, who also returns from the first Gladiator to helm the sequel. 

Several of the early reviews have praised the spectacle and the grandiose scale of the film, saying it’s nothing short of fantastic. Several even stated it’s the highlight of Scott’s recent filmography. Even some reviews, while still advocating for the first Gladiator being the superior film, went out of their way to articulate their praise for the second installment, justifying its place alongside the original.

Gladiator II hits theaters November 22nd.

#GladiatorII serves up the richest feast in the epic action set pieces and deliciously ribald treachery. Dovetailing stylishly with the original, Paul Mescal leads a solid, stellar cast with aplomb. Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger are a collective powerhouse 👍 pic.twitter.com/anFnm9rfEl

— Simon Thompson (@ShowbizSimon) October 19, 2024