Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal Lock Swords in First 'Gladiator II' Images

Ridley Scott's upcoming film, Gladiator 2, is set to release on November 22, 2024, with a UK release date of November 15. The sequel to the 2000 Oscar-winning movie stars Paul Mescal as Lucius, the son of Lucilla, a character returning from the original film and played by Connie Nielsen. The film takes place decades after the events of the first Gladiator, following Lucius as he navigates life in the Roman Empire.

First-look photos have been released, showcasing Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal, who plays Roman general Acacius. The images also feature Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn, and Connie Nielsen. Pascal's character is described as a fallen general with deep regrets, while Mescal's Lucius is depicted as a "savage individual" driven by personal motives. The film's storyline revolves around the political and military struggles within the Roman Empire, influenced by the legacy of Russell Crowe's character, Maximus, from the original film.