Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II Dominates Paramount+ Despite Mixed Reviews

Few action films in recent years have made as much noise as Ridley Scott ’s Gladiator II. Released in 2024, this sweeping historical epic quickly became a box office powerhouse and now continues to draw massive audiences on streaming. The movie has carved out a spot as the ninth most-watched film on Paramount+ worldwide, proving its staying power even after its theatrical run.

When it comes to grand historical adventures, classics like Saving Private Ryan and Ben-Hur often come to mind. But Scott’s original Gladiator set a new standard for the genre. Years later, he returned to that world, determined to raise the stakes even higher. The result is Gladiator II, a film that expands on the legacy of its predecessor and brings a fresh cast into the arena.

New Faces, Familiar Battles

Gladiator II stars Paul Mescal as Lucius, the secret son of Maximus, the hero from the first film. After escaping Rome in the wake of Maximus’s death, Lucius is captured and forced into slavery, eventually finding himself in the brutal world of the Colosseum. There, he’s pitted against the might of the Roman Empire, manipulated by the cunning Macrinus, played by Denzel Washington. The cast also features Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, and Peter Mensah, each adding depth to the film’s sprawling narrative.

The official synopsis sets the stage:

"Years after witnessing the death of Maximus at the hands of his uncle, Lucius must enter the Colosseum after the powerful emperors of Rome conquer his home. With rage in his heart and the future of the empire at stake, he looks to the past to find the strength and honor needed to return the glory of Rome to its people."

Audience Response and Box Office Triumph

While Gladiator II didn’t quite reach the critical heights of the original, it still struck a chord with fans. The film holds a 70% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, but its audience score is a much stronger 81%. At the global box office, it pulled in an impressive $462 million, cementing its status as a commercial success and a favorite among viewers who appreciate Scott’s signature style.

Despite the mixed reviews, the movie’s blend of intense action, political intrigue, and emotional storytelling has kept audiences coming back for more. Its popularity on streaming platforms shows that the appetite for epic tales set in ancient Rome is as strong as ever.

Russell Crowe’s Take on the Sequel

Not everyone has embraced the new chapter in the Gladiator saga. Russell Crowe, who played Maximus in the original, has been vocal about his reservations. He didn’t dismiss the sequel outright, but he made it clear he had issues with the direction it took. Crowe commented,

"I think the recent sequel that, you know, we don’t have to name out loud, is a really unfortunate example of even the people in that engine room not actually understanding what made the first one special,"

reflecting on the creative choices behind the film.

He also recalled challenges during the making of the first Gladiator, saying,

"The amount of times they suggested sex scenes and stuff like that for Maximus. It’s like you’re taking away his power. So you’re saying at the same time he had this relationship with his wife, he was f*cking this other girl? What are you talking about? It’s crazy."

Crowe’s candid remarks highlight the ongoing debate about what made the original film resonate so deeply with audiences.