Gladiator 2: Historical Accuracy, Cast, Plot & Release Date

The Gladiator series is back! This time with Gladiator 2!

Real History in Gladiator 2

Ridley Scott's sequel to the hit Gladiator movie is another big-budget historical epic!

Just like the first Gladiator, this newest version has its share of characters based on real figures from Rome! Gladiator 2 continues Lucius' story, from the first movie, played by Paul Mescal!

Fans may wonder about how accurate this all is to actual history, and if the characters have been tweaked a bit! There were many elements that didn't quite align perfectly, which has been acknowledged. However, it was certainly very close! And this newest movie is the continuation that fans have been asking for!

Also Read: Dragon Ball Z Live-Action: Who Should Play Vegeta?

Meet the Characters

Paul Mescal against a still of Maximus fighting in Gladiator Image

These Historical Figures will come alive! There's no better time to dive back into ancient history. The main characters have compelling and epic storylines.

Also Read: Joaquin Phoenix Best Movies: A Cinematic Journey

Lucius Verus

Denzel Washington as Macrinus in Gladiator 2 Image

Paul Mescal stars as Lucius Verus, an interesting character from the movie. The actor will be taking on the lead in this special sequel. Lucius Verus is based on the Roman emperor with the same name. His tale mirrors that of Maximus from the first Gladiator.

Wronged by the empire.
Forced into the gladiatorial arena!

Though in real history, Lucius Verus II didn't actually live long! He passed away young and he did have some connections with the main character that's seen in Gladiator II, making his story mostly fiction! One key thing to note, the newest addition. It seems Maximus might be Lucius' dad in Gladiator 2!

Also Read: Russell Crowe: The Best Action Movies to Watch

Lucilla

In Gladiator, Connie Nielsen brought this amazing role to life and we will see Lucilla come alive once again! Lucilla from Gladiator II was a truly unique individual who inspired her character in Gladiator and for those of you who don't know her story she did actually attempt to take out Commodus! (though that attempt, was thwarted.) What sets the newest Lucilla apart from the Gladiator's storyline. The sequel is changing up the history. A relationship between Lucilla and Maximus will show the true legacy. However, what was entirely a fabrication was Commodus' strange feelings about Lucilla. Her history was a big part of her role! Lucilla has had quite a career in ancient history!

Also Read: Denzel Washington's Best Action Movies: A Guide to His Most Iconic Roles

Geta

Fans will love the characters who step into some of the leading roles! One such figure will be Geta! Joseph Quinn will give this Roman Emperor the life he deserved in the Gladiator 2 sequel! Geta is shown ruling Rome, and even sharing power with his brother!

They did fight with each other! In Gladiator II, we get another taste of their strained relationship.

Ridley Scott spoke out about how much these characters might just be damaged goods right from the very beginning!

Caracalla

Caracalla! The rival, who shares power with Geta in Gladiator 2 is given life by Fred Hechinger! What was even more impressive was Hechinger worked with Ridley Scott on this role and took special care to really create a totally new character!

Caracalla is also a fascinating, truly iconic character, showing off the political chaos that really makes a huge part of Roman History. This real historical figure tried to split Rome! Ultimately the figure couldn't do that, so Caracalla took out his brother and went on a massacre, leaving him as the one in charge and creating chaos!

Macrinus

Lastly, one cannot talk about this newest movie Gladiator 2 without mentioning Macrinus played by Denzel Washington.

This role isn't going to leave any room for complacency. It seems Macrinus in this story has big plans! He uses political maneuvering! And plans on getting to become Emperor of Rome! He ends up creating this interesting twist where his path becomes even more complex by mentoring Lucius! This will lead to a dramatic shift in power and influence across all of Rome!

What will be very intriguing for those familiar with Rome's history. Macrinus is a figure in ancient history who does take control and becomes the leader of Rome after he arranged Caracalla's murder, taking on this role through military support! His ending will not surprise anyone who learns about what happened historically as his role and ultimate demise comes across! He's also one that leaves a mark.

Gladiator 2 looks to make the best use of these real historical characters and put them into exciting stories that continue what many consider one of the most popular historical epic films in history! It is one that is highly anticipated and will not disappoint! Fans can watch Gladiator 2 when it finally arrives in theaters! Get ready for a wild ride with epic battle sequences, a new lead character, Lucius, along with other pivotal figures, that truly bring to life what these classic movies really need!