What will the Gladiator 2 release date be, and what else do we know about the highly anticipated sequel’s story, cast, and how can you watch it?
What is the Gladiator 2 release date? After decades of rumours and speculation, the historical epic Gladiator is finally getting a long-awaited sequel with Gladitator 2.
Gladiator, widely considered to be one of the best movies of all time, told the story of the Roman general Maximus. Directed by Ridley Scott, the action movie followed the veteran warrior as he’s forced to fight as a gladiator after being captured into slavery. The drama movie touches on themes of revenge and stoicism in the face of tragedy, wrapped up in gorgeous visuals and excellent performances from a stellar cast.
So, there’s a lot of pressure on Gladiator 2 as it looks to emulate the success of its multi-Oscar winning predecessor. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. First of all, what do we know about the Gladiator 2 release date, as well as its cast and its story?
Gladiator 2 release date
There is no officially confirmed Gladiator 2 release date. However, with pre-production ramping up on the series with casting calls and decisions being made on filming locations, the sequel is expected to begin principal photography at some point in mid-2023. It will commence after director Ridley Scott finishes work on his other historical epic Kitbag, which is a Napoleon biopic.
This would mean that the Gladiator 2 release date could come as soon as late-2024, or perhaps more likely, 2025. Either way, the Gla:2 release date could be dropping sooner than you think, and we’ll get a more accurate picture as news continues to drop about the movie.
Gladiator 2 plot
After the death of Maximus and Commodus, the Gla: 2 plot could go absolutely anywhere. Previous (and subsequently scrapped) versions of the Gla: 2 script have been absolutely wild, and one even included an immortal version of Maximus who fought in the Vietnam war. It’s safe to say that one isn’t happening.
What we do know from Ridley Scott, however, is that an active script for Gladiator 2 has been completed and agreed upon. As production on the movie ramps up, expect the first concrete details to emerge about the Gla:2 plot.
Movie cast
Currently there is just one name attached to the Gla2 cast: Paul Mescal. Deadline reports that the star of TV series Normal People and recent indie-hit Aftersun will be taking on the leading role in the movie as an adult Lucius Verus, meaning that Spencer Treat Clark won’t be reprising his role.
- Paul Mescal as adult Lucius Verus
According to the outlet, the actor beat off fierce opposition from some of Hollywood’s biggest A-listers to take on the role, including Dune’s Timothée Chalamet and Austin Butler, MCU movie star and Game of Thrones alum Richard Madden, and Top Gun: Maverick’s Miles Teller.
Still, perhaps the single biggest question relating to the Gladiator 2 cast is whether or not Russell Crowe will return in some capacity. His character died at the end of Gladiator, however, it wouldn’t be completely surprising to see him return somehow.
How to watch Gladiator 2
It’s extremely likely that Gladiator 2 will receive an extensive, exclusive theatrical release. That’s because Gladiator 2 will be one of biggest new movies of the year upon its release with all the reputation that it carries over from the first movie, and so will be expected to be a major box office draw.
After a widespread theatrical release, Gla: 2 will then shift to become available on VOD, and will likely eventually move to a streaming service.
For more movie mania, check out our guide to every major new movie in 2023. Or, dip into some other genres and take a look at our rundown of the best science fiction movies and the best fantasy movies.
