Gladiator 2: Is It a Worthy Sequel or Will It Ruin the Original?

Will 'Gladiator 2' Ruin The Original 'Gladiator' Movie's Ending?

The movie's Trailer has revealed that Lucius (Paul Mescal) is Maximus’s son, creating a significant shift in the way audiences view those two stories. While many might have believed that the two films had been separated - there is now a key link, a connection which makes those events, much more interesting, giving viewers a new perspective.

This revelation has an impact on the way fans will look back at the original ‘Gladiator' , as they consider how those stories might overlap - which includes how Lucius (in this sequel) will face his past - and those challenges, which will ultimately determine the outcome.

How Will Maximus' Connection With His Son Impact ‘Gladiator 2'?

A composite image of Russell Crowe's Maximus from Gladiator over a picture of Paul Mescal Image

Fans of the original movie can't help but remember the series that so beautifully captures those important events. It turns out that, that final moment, when Maximus finds his way to the afterlife - a moment where he's reunited with those he loves, and those who he lost, and in a sense it brings closure.

However the reveal that Lucius is his son (in 'Gladiator 2') raises questions: It leads to those questions, where there’s a conflict and tension between his loyalty to those he loved (as the Gladiator) and those connections which made the series such a compelling journey - it seems like that closure - that was achieved in the original ‘Gladiator’ might not have been as complete as some have believed.

What Is 'Gladiator 2' About?

Lucius Lucilla and Maximus standing as a trio Image

It was an exciting event when the studio announced a sequel - that would pick up those stories – and fans were quick to jump on those theories: who will be featured, those new, emerging characters.

It’s clear that ‘Gladiator 2' is going to take us on a journey through time: That includes the challenges, battles and conflicts - those which are a major, key element of 'Gladiator 2' - with a combination of those strong - and well-known actors. It might turn out that there’s a lot to unpack - that we still don't know.

Is 'Gladiator 2' Based On Any Past Movies?

Fans are often looking for those connections - with the past. There’s an enormous history when it comes to ancient Rome. This Movie will take viewers on a journey.

That includes, the story of Maximus, a gladiator: He has a history of facing oppression - those challenging moments which ultimately lead to a defining event for his life and, of course a series that has been enjoyed by many. There's an opportunity to unravel a very complicated, layered history - it's not a simple tale of courage, bravery – or revenge.

What Will The Film's Director Do With This Storyline?

It's no secret that a number of fans were eager to learn more about the direction that the studio would take. There were some key moments from the original 'Gladiator' that fans were wondering how the director (Ridley Scott) would handle, particularly how they would approach, this sequel.

Gladiator 2 has been met with mixed reactions - it has raised questions, about whether or not this movie is going to live up to the success of the original film. Many are curious about those elements, which made the first movie so memorable: Those scenes where Maximus and his rival (Commodus), were battling each other.

Why Did They Choose Paul Mescal As The Lead Gladiator In ‘Gladiator 2’?

Paul Mescal has achieved great success in those roles he’s played: He was featured in ‘Normal People’, a mini - series which captured the hearts of many - it's the kind of role that really showcases just how far those actors, talents extend, as well as his career.

Paul Mescal’s roles are a combination of both: those characters who bring a powerful storyline to the movie. One of the key challenges is for the director, Ridley Scott: how will he weave this story, into an enchanting and, very compelling narrative that captivates those fans.