At the 2024 CineEurope trade show, Paramount’s Mark Viane announced that Ridley Scott’s Gladiator 2 would feature some of the “biggest action sequences ever put on film.” The event in Barcelona showcased new footage from the sequel, creating significant anticipation among attendees. A giant cardboard coliseum and Roman legionnaires enhanced the immersive experience around the main auditorium.
The presentation included a new trailer and extended footage starring Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal. During the event, Mark Viane emphasized the scale of the film’s action scenes, while Ridley Scott, via a video message, assured fans that the long wait for the sequel was worthwhile. The excitement was further fueled by reports of studio executives being impressed by early footage.
Ridley Scott, who directed the original Gladiator in 2000, returns to helm the sequel. The screenplay is written by David Scarpa, who has collaborated with Scott on previous projects such as All the Money in the World and Napoleon. The narrative continues with Paul Mescal portraying Lucius Verus, the son of Lucilla, played by Connie Nielsen, who reprises her role.
The star-studded cast includes Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, May Calamawy, Derek Jacobi, Lior Raz, Peter Mensah, Matt Lucas, and Tim McInnerny. Their participation promises to add depth and excitement to the film, contributing to the anticipation surrounding its release.
Production for Gladiator 2 began in June 2023 but faced delays due to the SAG-AFTRA strike. Filming resumed in December 2024, with production wrapping up on January 17, 2024. Gladiator 2 is set to hit US theaters on November 22, 2024, promising a cinematic experience that builds on the legacy of the original film.
