I was mesmerized by the original “Gladiator” in 2000, but this direct sequel just doesn’t measure up to the original.
“Gladiator II,” starring Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington and Pedro Pascal, just doesn’t have the same vim and vigor as the original. There’s a lot of old-school politics involved in this tale of ancient Rome. Macrinus (Washington) is trying to snake his way into the political pecking order.
Returning characters from the original include Connie Nielsen as Lucilla, whose son Lucius went into hiding as a young boy. Now any adult, he’s (Mescal) trying to survive.
Washington’s Macrinus turns out to be the baddie in this period actioner. In a power struggle, he wants to be on top no matter what it takes.
The obligatory gladiator battles in an arena filled with water are enthralling and captivating in “Gladiator II.” Generally, movies set in water or involving water don’t excite me, with the exception of “Jaws” (1975) and the original “Poseidon Adventure” (1972). Usually, they don’t float my boat.
The water battles in “Gladiator II,” however, are very well done and pulled me in. The story held my attention, but it fell flat in spots. I couldn’t care less about the political shenanigans involving rich privileged jerks no matter what century they’re from.
The acting is fine all around. And some of the battle action sequences are top notch, especially when a giant rhino is running amuck in the arena.
Ridley Scott, who called the shots on the original, returns to the director’s chair for the sequel.
Even with the near-legendary director involved, though, the follow-up just didn’t pull me in like the original did.
The original “Gladiator” earned five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Russell Crowe. Except for some technical awards such as sound and editing, I don’t foresee any Oscar gold this time around.
Grade: B-
