Nearly 25 years after the Academy Award-winning success of Ridley Scott’s Gladiator, its sequel, Gladiator II, has finally entered the arena. The Paramount film stars a lineup of Hollywood all-stars: Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, and the great Denzel Washington. Gladiator II tells the story of Lucius (Mescal), nephew of Emperor Commodus (portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix in the original Gladiator), who, 15 years after the events of the first film, is seeking revenge on a transformed Roman empire, which has since been conquered by tyrants who are responsible for invading his home in Numidia and murdering his wife. With a heart full of rage, Lucius enters the Colosseum, determined to return Rome’s glory back into the hands of its people, according to the film’s synopsis.
Fans are eager to hit up their local theaters this weekend to catch the long-awaited sequel. Many are curious to discover how this one measures up to the high bar that was set by Gladiator. And, let’s be honest with ourselves: Others are driven by the opportunity to witness the astonishing physical transformation that Paul Mescal has undergone for the role.
Responding to the buzz regarding his jacked physique, Mescal humbly told The Hollywood Reporter, “Of course, there’s a physical robustness required for the character, but past that, I’m not interested. This guy’s got to fight and got to be a beast. And whatever that looks and feels like is right for me is what it’s going to be.” We’re interested to see how Mescal’s thoughtful approach to the role will shape his portrayal of Lucius.
Is Gladiator Available to Stream?
As of now, the film is now playing in theaters and there is no confirmed streaming date yet for Gladiator II. We are hoping Paramount will make the film available on streaming services by awards season in 2025. But the studio has yet to reveal specifics.
Where Can I Stream Gladiator II?
Since it is a Paramount film, we are expecting that Gladiator II will follow suit of the studio’s other recent productions and become available to stream on Paramount+.
In the meantime, we suggest that fans prime their Gladiator II viewing experience with a screening of the original film, which can be found on Pluto TV, the Roku Channel, Prime Video, and Paramount+.
