‘Gladiator 2’ Trailer: Paul Mescal Faces Off Against Pedro Pascal and Denzel Washington in Ridley Scott’s Action-Packed Sequel

Paramount Pictures has unveiled the highly anticipated trailer for Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator 2,” slated for release on November 22. The sequel stars Paul Mescal as a grown-up Lucius, son of Lucilla (Connie Nielsen) and nephew of Commodus, the original film’s antagonist.

The story picks up years later, with Lucius living in Numidia, a northern African region beyond the Roman Empire’s reach. Sent there by his mother as a child, Lucius is drawn back to Rome as a gladiator, where he encounters new adversaries and reunites with his mother. The film promises to deliver the same intensity and grandeur that made the original a classic, with even more elaborate set pieces and a deeper exploration of Roman politics and society.

Cast Highlights:

Paul Mescal as Lucius, who evolves from a sheltered noble into a formidable gladiator, grappling with his legacy and identity.

Pedro Pascal as Marcus Acacius, a seasoned Roman general with a complex history who trained under the legendary Maximus Decimus Meridius (originally played by Russell Crowe). Acacius is both a mentor and a rival to Lucius.

Denzel Washington is Macrinus, a wealthy and influential powerbroker in Rome who maintains a stable of gladiators and wields significant political influence. Washington’s character adds a layer of strategic cunning to the gladiatorial games.

Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger are the twin emperors of Rome, whose reign is marked by intrigue and instability, presenting new challenges for Lucius.

Ridley Scott revealed in a recent Vanity Fair interview that he became a fan of Mescal after watching his performance in “Normal People.” Scott decided Mescal was the perfect lead for “Gladiator 2” after a brief conversation. Mescal underwent a significant physical transformation for the role, earning the nickname “Brick Wall Paul” from co-star Pascal. “He got so strong. I would rather be thrown from a building than have to fight him again,” Pascal joked, highlighting the intense physicality of their scenes.

In addition to the returning characters and new faces, the film delves into the darker and more brutal aspects of gladiatorial life, showcasing the visceral combat and the gladiators’ complex relationships with their patrons and each other. The production team has spared no effort in recreating the grandeur of ancient Rome with elaborate sets, stunning visual effects, and meticulously crafted costumes.

The original “Gladiator,” starring Russell Crowe as Maximus, told the story of a betrayed Roman general who becomes a gladiator to avenge his family. The film was a box office success, winning several Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Actor. “Gladiator 2” aims to build on this legacy, promising an epic narrative filled with action, drama, and emotional depth.

With a star-studded cast and Ridley Scott’s visionary direction, “Gladiator 2” is set to captivate audiences again. Watch the thrilling trailer below to get a glimpse of the epic battles and dramatic confrontations awaiting in “Gladiator 2.”