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Gladiator II

Gladiator II is a 2024 historical action-drama film directed by Ridley Scott and written by David Scarpa.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Gladiator II is a 2024 historical action-drama film directed by Ridley Scott and written by David Scarpa. It is a sequel to Gladiator (2000) and follows Lucius, played by Paul Mescal, as he is forced into the Colosseum after Rome conquers his home. The film was released in theatres on November 22, 2024, with a runtime of 148 minutes.

Premise

The film follows Lucius, years after the first Gladiator, after his home is conquered and he is forced into the Colosseum. The story connects his struggle to the fate of Rome and his search for strength and honour.

Production

Gladiator II was directed by Ridley Scott and written by David Scarpa. It was produced for Paramount Pictures and continues the story world established in Gladiator (2000).

Cast

Paul Mescal plays Lucius, while Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Connie Nielsen, and Denzel Washington appear in major roles. Derek Jacobi and Connie Nielsen reprise roles associated with the original film.

Release and reception

The film opened in theatres on November 22, 2024 and has a runtime of 148 minutes. Rotten Tomatoes lists it as an R-rated historical drama with strong bloody violence.

Key facts

  • A sequel to Gladiator (2000).
  • Stars Paul Mescal as Lucius, with Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Connie Nielsen, and Denzel Washington in supporting roles.
  • Directed by Ridley Scott and written by David Scarpa.
  • Released in U.S. theatres on November 22, 2024.
  • The film is set years after the events of the first film and centres on Lucius entering the Colosseum after his home is conquered.
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Canadian context

The film was distributed in Canada by Paramount Pictures as part of its North American theatrical rollout, and it later became available through Paramount+ in Canada where the service is offered.[9][11]

Frequently asked questions

Is Gladiator II a sequel?
Yes. It is a sequel to Gladiator (2000).
Who directed Gladiator II?
Ridley Scott directed the film.
Who stars in Gladiator II?
The film stars Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Connie Nielsen, and Denzel Washington.
When was Gladiator II released?
It was released in theatres on November 22, 2024.
What is Gladiator II about?
It follows Lucius after Rome conquers his home and he is forced into the Colosseum, where he seeks a way to restore honour and stability.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gladiator_II
    Supports: Basic cast information and sequel status.
  2. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/gladiator_ii
    Supports: Director, distributor, runtime, rating, genre, and release date.
  3. Paramount+ — https://www.paramountplus.com/movies/video/e7rqmb3RCGcEJBB4o3n6DaOakuhF2eUP/
    Supports: Plot synopsis, cast, director, and streaming availability.
  4. Paramount+ — https://www.paramountplus.com/sneak-peak/where-to-watch-gladiator-ii/
    Supports: Theatrical release date, sequel status, cast, director, and streaming availability.
  5. RogerEbert.com — https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/gladiator-ii-ridley-scott-paul-mescal-film-review
    Supports: Narrative setting and main characters.
  6. Wikipedia — https://www.it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Il_gladiatore_II
    Supports: 2024 film identification and principal cast.