Heading to 'Gladiator II' Premiere? Here's What You Need to Know

Gladiator 2 is heading to theaters worldwide in the coming days, making this the perfect opportunity to revisit all the fascinating and juicy details we know so far, while also answering some of your burning questions.

The film had its world premiere in Sydney, Australia, on October 30. It is set to be officially released in Australia and New Zealand on November 14, in the United Kingdom on November 15, and finally, in the United States on November 22.

The film stars Paul Mescal as Lucius Verus, Denzel Washington as Macrinus, Pedro Pascal as Marcus Acacius, Joseph Quinn as Emperor Geta, Fred Hechinger as Emperor Caracalla, Connie Nielsen reprising her role as Lucilla, and Derek Jacobi returning as Senator Gracchus. Additional cast members include May Calamawy, Lior Raz, Peter Mensah, and Matt Lucas.

No, unfortunately, the star of the original movie is not returning. This makes sense, as his character died, and the sequel takes place 20 years after the events of the first film.

Gladiator 2 follows Lucius Verus (played by Mescal), the son of Lucilla and nephew of Commodus, who is forced to fight in the Colosseum after his home is conquered by tyrannical emperors. He must confront his past and strive to restore Rome to its former glory.

The legendary Ridley Scott is returning as the director. If anyone were to make a follow-up to Gladiator, it could only be him. Scott and Mescal also seem to have a strong rapport, as Mescal is reportedly in talks to join another one of Scott’s upcoming projects.

Filming took place across the globe, but most of the movie was shot in Morocco and Malta to provide an authentic feel of ancient Rome. Production occurred from June 2023 to January 2024, with a five-month hiatus due to the 2023 Hollywood labor disputes.

In short, no. While the movie incorporates historical figures like Emperors Geta and Caracalla, the narrative and events are fictional. The film has faced criticism from historians for its historical inaccuracies—particularly for scenes involving sharks in a flooded Colosseum and gladiators riding rhinoceroses. Ridley Scott responded to the critics with a blunt: “Get a life.”

Unfortunately, yes. In June 2023, shortly after filming began, several crew members sustained non-life-threatening burn injuries. All affected individuals received prompt medical treatment. Ridley Scott prioritizes safety on set, as demonstrated when he initially prohibited Paul Mescal from performing a horse stunt. Later, under strict conditions, Scott allowed Mescal to complete the stunt himself.

PETA raised concerns about the treatment of live animals on set, urging the crew to stop their use. The production team refuted these claims, stating that the American Humane Society was present at all times to ensure animal welfare standards were upheld.

Yes! A sequel, Gladiator 3, is in the early stages of development. Ridley Scott already has a concept in mind, and it may even be outlined on paper by now!