As a die-hard fan of historical epics, I must say that the upcoming sequel to “Gladiator” has me absolutely thrilled! With its intricate plotlines and a cast that promises to deliver top-notch performances, it’s shaping up to be a cinematic masterpiece.
It’s high time for another round of entertainment! Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator” isn’t just one of the best films from the 2000s; it’s often considered among the greatest movies ever created. The movie “Gladiator” gives viewers an authentic glimpse into the ancient Roman Empire and places them right in the front row for the legendary gladiator contests of the Coliseum. After 24 years of developmental limbo, the long-awaited sequel, “Gladiator II,” is finally hitting theaters this month.
Even though it takes place about 20 years after the initial story, Gladiator II will draw upon and allude to events from the first movie, making it beneficial to be acquainted with the original Gladiator. If you don’t have time to watch or rewatch, MovieWeb has got your back. Here are nine important points to recollect from the initial film as you prepare for the theater and the Coliseum in Gladiator II.
9 Maximus Was a Respected Roman General
The story centers on Maximus, portrayed by Russell Crowe. Initially, we find Maximus as a distinguished Roman military commander who has guided Rome’s forces to numerous triumphant battles.
An able and powerful leader, Maximus enjoys the affection and esteem of the Roman populace. Notably, even the aging Emperor Marcus Aurelius (portrayed by Richard Harris) admires Maximus greatly. This admiration, however, poses challenges for the military commander of Rome.
8 Commodus Seized His Father’s Throne
In my perspective as a movie critic, Joaquin Phoenix brilliantly portrays Commodus, the sole offspring of Marcus Aurelius and the destined ruler of Rome. However, he is far from a worthy successor, exhibiting behaviors more akin to a troubled pet than a wise emperor, a reality that his own father acknowledges.
As I gaze into the twilight, I share my final wish with my son, Marcus: “Maximus, not you, Commodus, should follow me when I’m gone. You must free Rome from its empire, return it to a Republic.” This revelation stirs discontent within the heart of Commodus. Filled with rage, he strikes down his own father and claims the throne for himself, a move that sets our once great Rome on an ominous path.
7 Commodus Also Betrayed Maximus
After proclaiming himself Rome’s new emperor, Commodus requests the loyalty of Maximus. But the Roman general can smell the treachery from a mile away and refuses to support Commodus.
Furious from another refusal, Commodus commands the execution of Maximus and his entire family. Tragically, Maximus avoids capture but upon his return home, he finds his beloved wife and child viciously murdered.
6 Maximus Became a Remarkable Gladiator
Following the horrific discovery of his wife and son’s lifeless bodies, Maximus succumbs to his wounds, falling unconscious. Subsequently, he is picked up by slave traders who then sell him into slavery. Now a captive gladiator, Maximus excels in combat due to his exceptional skills, earning admiration from the crowd. He is eventually transported to Rome’s Colosseum for gladiatorial battles, where he faces off against opponents under the malevolent gaze of Commodus – the very man who betrayed him.
It’s shocking news to the new ruler that Maximus is still alive, and his surprise deepens as Maximus, referred to in Rome as “the Spaniard”, gains the affection of the Roman populace, outshining Commodus entirely. In a bold display, he exclaims angrily to the crowd, “Is this not enough for you?!” And they respond by adoring him even more.
5 Lucilla Was Commodus’ Sister
Although Commodus was Marcus Aurelius’ only son, it’s important to note that Marcus Aurelius wasn’t solely a father to him; he also had a daughter named Lucilla (played by Connie Nielsen). This means that Lucilla is Commodus’ sister.
As a dedicated movie enthusiast, I’d like to clarify that unlike my younger brother, I steer clear of any corrupt dealings and unsavory schemes. And let me be perfectly clear, his unwanted advances are not something I entertain either. In the sequel to ‘Gladiator’, where I reprised my role as Lucilla in ‘Gladiator 2’, this aspect of my character becomes significantly significant.
4 Lucilla and Maximus Had History
As you prepare for the captivating spectacle that is “Gladiator II”, it’s essential to remember the profound connection shared by Maximus and Lucilla – once inseparable lovers. Time has passed, and both have moved on, tying the knot with others. However, fate has a cruel twist, as they’ve recently found themselves widowed once more. This emotional backstory promises to add depth and intensity to their reunion within the colosseum’s walls.
Despite their separation, Lucilla still seems to harbor romantic feelings for Maximus. Their romantic past seems to be an integral plot point in Gladiator II.
3 Lucilla’s Son, Lucius, Idolized Maximus
In the original movie, Lucilla gives birth to a child named Lucius (portrayed by Spencer Treat Clark). Initially, he is just a boy, but his admiration for Maximus blossoms as he witnesses the powerful gladiator’s victories within the grand Colosseum.
In “Gladiator II,” we find another significant point to recall: the protagonist, now grown as Lucius (Paul Mescal), experiences a similar fate as Maximus, becoming a slave and gladiator. Trailer snippets of “Gladiator II” suggest that the character of Maximus leaves an impact on Lucius, particularly in a scene where Lucius mimics Maximus’ signature move from the original film by kneeling and smearing dirt from the battlefield onto his hands.
2 Maximus and Commodus Killed Each Other
In an attempt to gain the adoration of Rome, Commodus devises a plan: he challenges Maximus, a beloved hero, to a single combat in the Coliseum – a battle he believes he can’t win on his own. To enhance his chances, Commodus secretly wounds an incapacitated Maximus before they engage, but despite his injuries, Maximus proves more formidable than the timid emperor during their encounter.
The final scene of Gladiator shows both combatants deceased, yet it’s clear the crowd was more invested in one character. Hint: It wasn’t Maximus or Commodus. Consequently, neither Maximus (portrayed by Russell Crowe) nor Commodus (played by Joaquin Phoenix) will feature in Gladiator II.
1 Commodus Didn’t Have an Heir
As a movie aficionado, let me share an intriguing point: Commodus, the central figure in ‘Gladiator’, didn’t have any offspring who could claim the Emperor title after his demise. Instead, it was his nephew, Lucius – grandson of the esteemed Marcus Aurelius – who takes center stage in the sequel, ‘Gladiator II’.
It appears that, contrary to expectations, Lucius does not inherit his uncle’s title or become Emperor of Rome in the sequel. Instead, we see Rome governed by the unstable brothers Geta (Joseph Quinn) and Caracalla (Fred Hechinger), who share the throne as co-emperors. The question remains: how did these two ascend to power? And what became of Lucius following the events in Gladiator? We’ll find out soon enough.
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2024-11-19 03:33