The Monkey Is the Secret Hero of Gladiator II

As a seasoned film enthusiast with decades of cinematic experiences under my belt, I must say that Ridley Scott’s latest masterpiece, “Gladiator II,” has truly outdone itself in terms of creativity and unexpected storytelling. One might overlook the unsung hero of this epic tale until late into the runtime: Dundus, the monkey.

In Ridley Scott’s new movie “Gladiator II,” set to release on November 22nd, one of the main characters isn’t immediately apparent until later in the film. This is due, in part, because this character isn’t portrayed by a prominent actor such as Pedro Pascal, Paul Mescal, or Denzel Washington. Interestingly, this character isn’t human at all.

He is a monkey named Dundus, and he’s the secret hero of this brutal blockbuster. 

In the movie, titled “Emperor Caracalla,” Sherry, a female monkey making her first appearance on screen, is portrayed as Dundus, who surprisingly assumes a crucial position in the second half of the film. While Dundus’ presence is undeniably amusing given his simian nature, it also carries a deeper meaning. In Scott’s exploration of human greed and power-seeking, it’s significant that for a brief moment, a primate ascends to a prominent position.

Initially, Dundus manages to hold the crowd’s interest as Macrinus, a cunning arms dealer and owner of gladiators, deceives Caracalla into killing his fellow ruler and brother, Geta (Joseph Quinn). Although they are meant to rule jointly, Geta is the more capable of the two. He often patronizes Caracalla, who enjoys watching fights and attending parties more than governing. Caracalla appears immature and sick with syphilis, leaning on his friendship with Dundus, whom he sometimes dresses in childlike attire.

One day, Macrinus encounters Caracalla hiding beneath a table along with Dundus, both of them following a reprimand from their sibling. This presents an opportune moment for Macrinus to subtly suggest harmful advice to the emperor. Following Caracalla’s actions in carrying out Macrinus’ orders, the assassination of his brother ensues. However, contrary to Macrinus’ expectations, Caracalla does not appoint him as his trusted advisor afterward. Instead, he remains unpredictable.

In this instance, instead of appointing his first advisor, Caracalla chooses Dundus for the role, momentarily elevating the primate to one of the Roman Empire’s most influential figures. Macrinus takes on the second counsel position, effectively managing affairs since Dundus is a monkey, albeit reluctantly. Even Macrinus has to address Dundus with respect when Caracalla commands him to do so.

As a passionate cinephile, I must say that while Caracalla is inspired by a true figure, Dundus seems to be a fictional creation in this context. Ridley Scott and screenwriter David Scarpa aren’t aiming for an absolute historical reenactment (rest assured, there were no sharks in the Colosseum!). However, the inclusion of Dundus offers fascinating insights into Ridley Scott’s cinematic vision.

For years, Scott has derived pleasure from exposing powerful figures as utter buffoons. In the original “Gladiator,” Joaquin Phoenix’s character Commodus comes across as more whiny than menacing, striking fear mainly through his unpredictable insanity. More recently, in 2021’s “The Last Duel,” Scott dressed Ben Affleck in a blonde wig and goatee to portray an exaggerated medieval count who is more focused on partying than governing his people. Just last year, Scott transformed Napoleon (once again played by Phoenix) into a bumbling man-child, uttering lines such as “you think you are so great because you have boats,” which reflects his disdain for the English.

Known for his sci-fi classics such as Alien and Blade Runner, along with grand historical epics, Ridley Scott surprisingly possesses a vast sense of humor. This becomes evident when listening to Jared Leto’s thick Italian accent in House of Gucci or noticing the numerous jokes delivered by Affleck in The Last Duel. Even though a film like Gladiator II showcases masculinity through Pascal and Mescal’s muscular physiques and discussions about honor, it also exposes the absurdity in men. Dundus is merely another example of Scott’s ability to portray historical figures, such as Caracalla, as immature individuals.

In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Hechinger pointed out that Scott has a genuine affection for animals and sees similarities between them and the animalistic tendencies present in human societies, particularly in the context of how we construct our society. The portrayal of Rome in Gladiator II is intentionally exaggerated, serving as a backdrop to analyze the small-mindedness that has persisted throughout history.

Dundus, much like other animals used for amusement by Rome, finds himself in the midst of disorder, yet unlike the fierce rhino that assaults Lucius’s Mescal in the arena, Dundus is adorable. He’s merely a small creature who sits on Caracalla’s shoulder and uses a leash. You chuckle at his presence and Caracalla’s fixation with him, all while contemplating: This monkey deserves a more fulfilling life.

Not long after Dundus ascended to the role of first counsel, Caracalla was assassinated by Macrinus, using a long needle to pierce his ear. This marks the conclusion of Dundus’ tale. The narrative must progress, leaving us uncertain about his future. One can merely speculate that he enjoyed a prosperous and joyful life filled with monkey-related activities, far from any form of governmental oversight. May fortune smile upon him always. Cheers to Dundus!

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2024-11-22 19:09