‘Gladiator II’ Receives Mostly Positive Reviews Ahead Of Release

The reviews are in for Gladiator II, and critics are offering mostly positive takes on Ridley Scott’s latest epic, though many note its familiar themes. Set to open nationwide on Nov. 22, the long-awaited sequel to the 2000 Oscar-winning Gladiator has earned a 77% freshness rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a “generally favorable” 67 on Metacritic. 

In Gladiator II, the story picks up years after Gladiator, following Lucius Verus, portrayed by Paul Mescal, as he faces Rome’s emperors in the Colosseum after his home in Numidia is overrun. Joined by Pedro Pascal’s General Marcus Acacius and Denzel Washington’s menacing Macrinus, the characters navigate a storyline filled with battles, betrayals and ancient Roman intrigue.

David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter notes the sequel’s familiar elements, yet believes it satisfies fans, stating, “in terms of brutal spectacle, elaborate period reconstruction and vigorous set pieces requiring complex choreography, the sequel delivers what fans of its Oscar-winning 2000 predecessor will crave.” However, he observes a “déjà vu quality” in its reliance on the original’s formula.

Other critics seem impressed by Mescal’s performance. The BBC’s Caryn James describes Mescal as “the mesmerizing center of the film,” adding that the actor brings “the same power and magnetism Russell Crowe brought to the original.” She highlights the film’s intense action, remarking that “beheadings and swordfights almost overwhelm the characters, but it comes close enough” to the emotional core of the first film.

Meanwhile, The Daily Beast‘s Nick Schager calls it “an elaborate imitation,” but acknowledges Scott’s talent, describing it as “a majestic and malicious cover song.” The Guardian’s Peter Bradshaw echoes Schager’s sentiment, admiring the “thrilling spectacle” despite similarities to its predecessor, saying, “we are entertained.”

However, not all reactions were enthusiastic. New York Magazine’s Alison Willmore critiques the film’s emotional depth, writing, “The thrill of the action sequences just underscores the hollowness of the rest of the enterprise.” Similarly, Alonso Duralde of The Film Verdict remarks, “When Gladiator II is being neither wild nor crazy, it’s all a little dull.”

Gladiator II arrives in theaters on Nov. 22, offering audiences another dive into ancient Rome through Scott’s distinct, battle-filled vision.