Gladiator 2 lands lower Rotten Tomatoes rating than first movie

Gladiator II‘s debut Rotten Tomatoes rating is lower than the first movie.

In UK theaters starting November 15, the following film continues the story. Here, Paul Mescal portrays Lucius who seeks vengeance against Roman General Acacius, played by Pedro Pascal, and their growing empire. This action ensues after Lucius’ homeland of Numidia is seized and his wife meets a tragic end.

Initially, the movie has garnered a critical rating of approximately 77% on Rotten Tomatoes, which is somewhat lower compared to the 79% score received by Ridley Scott’s 2000 original production.

Gladiator 2 lands lower Rotten Tomatoes rating than first movie

In the sequel titled “Gladiator II“, Denzel Washington takes on the role of the ambitious businessman Macrinus. Additionally, Fred Hechinger and actor Joseph Quinn from “Stranger Things” are featured as the unstable twin Emperors named Geta and Caracalla.

In addition, the follow-up film brings back several characters from the first installation, such as Connie Nielsen playing Lucilla, the daughter of the late Emperor Marcus Aurelius, and Sir Derek Jacobi portraying Gracchus.

Here’s a round-up of what reviewers have been saying of Gladiator 2 so far:

Digital Spy

Ridley Scott delivers an exciting and visually stunning cinema experience, even when the movie has its imperfections. The Colosseum scene is packed with bloodshed, violence, and a surprising naval battle, complete with sharks. The action sequences are as vivid, gory, and brutal as fans would anticipate.

As a devoted admirer, I’d say that if you can overlook the absence of deep emotional resonance and character development, watching Gladiator 2 is an incredibly enjoyable experience.

Gladiator 2 lands lower Rotten Tomatoes rating than first movie

Empire

Instead of being a heavy, foreseeable continuation of an adored Academy Award winner, it unexpectedly becomes a delightful adventure.

The Independent

Occasionally, “Gladiator II” leans into theatricality that some might find campy. Trying to argue it shouldn’t be this way could stem from clinging too much to the seriousness typical of modern blockbusters. It offers a contemporary perspective yet also pays homage to the over-the-top tradition of its genre.

BBC

As a movie enthusiast, I can confidently say that no other film this year has rivaled the grandeur and jaw-dropping performances quite like “Gladiator II“. It’s the ultimate popcorn flick that you simply can’t miss!

Gladiator 2 lands lower Rotten Tomatoes rating than first movie

Indiewire

Sadly, although the thrilling action scenes were likely what many viewers came for, they didn’t quite manage to overshadow the rather dull storyline.

Daily Telegraph

In a delightful manner, Washington masterfully brings charm to his meaty part, making it a treat for viewers. Each movement exudes Hollywood elegance, and each utterance surprises with a twist. Regrettably, his exceptional performance seems to overshadow the other actors in the production.

The Guardian

The follow-up movie is both enjoyable and breathtaking, featuring an incredible physical replica of the Colosseum built at full size instead of digitally, complete with live audiences. However, it feels oddly like a cutting-edge reboot of an earlier film.

Gladiator II arrives in cinemas on November 15 in the UK, and on November 22 in the US.

2024-11-13 18:49