‘Gladiator II’ Review: Denzel Washington brings intensity to Ridley Scott’s arena in Rome

With over-the-top performances and thrilling Coliseum scenes, Scott crafts a dark tale of Rome's lust for spectacle.

In Gladiator II, Ridley Scott takes audiences back to the famed Coliseum, delivering a visually thrilling sequel set 20 years after the original. Rome is now ruled by Emperor Geta (Joseph Quinn) and his brother Caracalla (Fred Hechinger), whose cruelty sparks chaos.

At the heart of this spectacle is Lucius Verus (Paul Mescal), a warrior-turned-gladiator with vengeance in his blood after his wife’s death at the hands of the Roman army.

As Lucius carves his path through the brutal arenas, he finds himself manipulated by the cunning power broker Macrinus, portrayed by Denzel Washington. Washington's performance, praised for its intensity and humor, captures the Machiavellian essence of Rome’s politics.

Gladiator battles reach new heights, featuring wild spectacles with man-eating monkeys and charging rhinoceroses, while a shark-filled, flooded arena amplifies the film's dark allure.

Though Gladiator II prioritizes spectacle over historical accuracy, its compelling performances and unrelenting action make it an intense addition to Scott's filmography.