Denzel Washington talks about his role in 'Gladiator II' at early screening

Denzel Washington joined co-stars Paul Mescal, Connie Nielsen, and Fred Hechinger for an early screening of Gladiator II on Friday night at the Paramount lot.

The sequel, directed by Ridley Scott, sees Mescal take on the role of Lucius Verus II, nephew of emperor Commodus, who returns to Rome as a gladiator.

Washington plays Macrinus, a former gladiator turned arms dealer, aiming to control Rome.

During the Q&A, Washington humorously described his character as a "misunderstood" man who would use anyone to gain power, adding that the immersive sets built in Malta made the experience feel like stepping into ancient Rome.

Mescal also discussed his physical transformation for the film, revealing how his character evolved into a gladiator who fights for survival.

Gladiator II carries the legacy of the original film, with Mescal praising Ridley Scott's direction and the pride the cast took in creating the sequel. The film is set to hit theaters on November 22.