Some of Gladiator 2 has actually been seen, and here’s what we’re hearing about it. The long-awaited sequel to Ridley Scott’s Oscar-winning Gladiator has gone through many versions over the years, with the director initially planning to bring back Russell Crowe’s character Maximus in an opening scene, despite his death in the first film.
But the version that has now been screened for studio executives is getting a huge reaction, according to reports. Buried in a Deadline story about Scott’s potential next project after Gladiator 2 is the revelation that footage from the sequel has blown away those who have seen it so far.
While details are scarce on exactly what was shown or how much of the film was previewed, this is certainly an encouraging sign for the highly anticipated follow-up, which is still months away from its November 2024 release date.
Gladiator 2 has been in development hell for decades, with previous script attempts failing to materialize. The new film will be set years after the original, following the grown-up character of Lucius, who was a child in Gladiator. The cast also includes Denzel Washington and Pedro Pascal in undisclosed roles.
If studio execs are as wowed by the footage as reported, it bodes well for Gladiator 2 potentially living up to, or even surpassing, the critical and commercial success of its beloved predecessor when it finally hits theaters later this year. The first official look for audiences will likely arrive sometime this summer during the promotional campaign.