Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated sequel to the legendary GLADIATOR has stormed both theaters and digital platforms, marking a new chapter in the epic saga of Ancient Rome. Released digitally on December 24, this cinematic powerhouse has already crossed the $400 million mark globally, proving itself as Scott’s most successful venture since THE MARTIAN in 2015. The film’s impressive performance isn’t just reflected in its box office numbers – it has earned the respect of both critics and audiences, garnering a 72% critics score and an 82% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Set in the richly detailed world of Ancient Rome fifteen years after the events of the original film, GLADIATOR II weaves a compelling narrative of power, vengeance, and honor. The story follows Lucius (Paul Mescal), whose life takes a dramatic turn when his homeland falls to Rome’s tyrannical emperors. Having witnessed the legendary Maximus’s death at his uncle’s hands years before, Lucius finds himself thrust into the blood-soaked arena of the Colosseum. His journey becomes a quest not just for personal revenge, but for the very soul of Rome itself.

The sequel boasts an extraordinary ensemble cast that includes Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Lior Raz, and Derek Jacobi, each bringing gravitas and intensity to their roles. While the film’s first half might echo familiar beats from its predecessor, it’s in the latter half where it truly finds its unique voice and begins to carve its own path in the annals of epic cinema. The story transforms into something entirely fresh, moving beyond mere homage to become a distinctive and compelling narrative in its own right.

What makes GLADIATOR II particularly noteworthy is its accessibility to both newcomers and fans of the original. While knowledge of the first film enriches the experience, the sequel stands confidently on its own merits, telling a story that resonates with themes of revenge, redemption, and the eternal struggle between tyranny and justice. As Lucius navigates the treacherous waters of Roman politics and the brutal arena of gladiatorial combat, the film builds towards a climax that honors its predecessor while blazing new trails in epic storytelling.

For those eager to experience this continuation of the GLADIATOR saga, the film remains available both in theaters and across various digital platforms, offering viewers the flexibility to choose their preferred viewing experience. Whether witnessed on the big screen or in the comfort of home, GLADIATOR II proves that even after two decades, the allure of Ancient Rome’s grandeur and brutality continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Here’s where to watch GLADAITOR II from home!

Paul Mescal, the 28-year-old GLADIATOR 2 actor, has solidified his position as a cinematic powerhouse in 2024, with his most anticipated role in Ridley Scott’s latest opus leading the charge. 

His remarkable trajectory continues with a prestigious invitation to The Hollywood Reporter’s ACTORS ROUNDTABLE, sharing the stage with an elite group of performers. Mescal joins Adrien Brody (THE BRUTALIST), Colman Domingo (SING SING), Daniel Craig (QUEER), Peter Sarsgaard (SEPTEMBER 5) and Sebastian Stan (THE APPRENTICE).

Beyond GLADIATOR 2, Mescal continues to demonstrate remarkable range through projects like FOE, a compelling sci-fi psychological drama co-starring Saoirse Ronan, and ALL OF US STRANGERS, an intimate drama that has garnered significant festival praise. His selection for the Hollywood Reporter’s prestigious Actors Roundtable further solidifies his status, placing him in conversation with incredibly established actors. This recognition highlights Mescal’s rapid ascent from his breakthrough in NORMAL PEOPLE to an Academy Award-nominated performance in AFTERSUN, and now to leading roles in both independent and major studio productions.

Paul Mescal will host SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE on December 7, 2023, with musical guest Shaboozey. This will be his first time hosting the show and comes as part of his promotional tour for GLADIATOR 2 in which he stars as Hanno, a former Roman heir turned gladiator. The movie, directed by Ridley Scott and featuring stars like Pedro Pascal and Denzel Washington, will release two weeks before his SNL appearance.

This episode will air after SNL’s three-week Thanksgiving break and is part of the show’s milestone 50th season. The current season has already featured notable hosts including Jean Smart, Ariana Grande, Michael Keaton, John Mulaney, Bill Burr, and Charli XCX. SNL will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a special primetime episode on February 16, 2024.

Mescal, who gained recognition from NORMAL PEOPLE (2020) and received an Oscar nomination for AFTERSUN is venturing into mainstream territory with both GLADIATOR 2 and this comedy hosting opportunity on SNL.