Embedded Files
Whether it’s the exciting action or the compelling drama, the new film ‘Gladiator II’ will have you captivated. It’s a historical fiction action film that takes place in Ancient Rome. It follows the story of Lucius, the protagonist, as he tries to fight his way to become a free man. The film came out in November of 2024 and had a box office revenue of $35.5 million.
‘Gladiator II’ is the sequel to the 2000 film ‘Gladiator I,’ which takes place in 180 AD. The first movie is about a gladiator named Maximus, who found himself fighting to survive on countless occasions. The second movie is the story of Hanno (Paul Mescal). He was married and living peacefully living in Numidia. He lost his wife, his home, and his freedom in a battle against Rome. As a prisoner of war, he was forced to fight animals for the entertainment of the Roman people. His impressive fighting skills caught the attention of a gladiator handler. The handler had a team of fighters that he would send into fights for the entertainment of the upper class. He purchased Hanno and explained to him that by winning fights he could someday buy his freedom. Hanno wasn’t interested in money, it was the opportunity to avenge his wife that inspired him to keep going. With his wife’s death in mind, Hanno was ready to fight.
Historical fiction movies have never been my thing, but I must admit that I enjoyed watching 'Gladiator II.' Hanno is a likable character who is easy to root for. We get to see how others hurt him time and time again, and his growth as he handles every obstacle. Paul Mescal was an excellent casting choice, as he looks straight out of a Roman painting. He perfectly portrays Hanno's feelings of loss, grief, and anger. The movie's sets and effects also contribute to my positive view of the film. The sets look realistic and historically accurate. I have visited Rome before, so I enjoyed seeing what the city looked like before its collapse through this movie. Apart from being an action movie, ‘Gladiator II’ also covers many topics, which adds depth to the story. It shows how the different characters deal with grief, broken families, power, and relationships. I give this movie a four out of five stars.
‘Gladiator II’ loses half a star due to some of its historical inaccuracies. Though gladiators did have to fight against animals in battle, the animals seen in the film did not exist. In one of Hanno’s first gladiator fights, he has to defend himself against monkeys. These monkeys, however, had different features and traits than the monkeys that exist in real life. The way that the gladiators were dressed in battle scenes was also not historically correct. In the movie, the gladiators use armor when fighting. That was not the case for real gladiators throughout history. ‘Gladiator II’ loses another half a star because of the excessive violence in the film. The fight scenes were very graphic and intense. There was no lack of blood and gore in this movie.
Like every film, ‘Gladiator II’ has its pros and cons. I ultimately enjoyed the movie and would recommend it to those who love action, history, and a little bit of drama. It is an exciting thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
By: Luciana Avila
Page updated
Report abuse