While I think it’s impossible to reach the status & prestige of ‘Gladiator’ this was a fine follow up. Ridley Scott goes big with huge set pieces & twice the amount of action with some audacious scenes. Pedro Pascal is solid as always, Denzel Washington gives a masterclass in owning scenes & Paul Mescal gives his all to match Crowes performance in the original but doesn't quite get there

It was good. Could have been more realistic than battling great whites. Slightly redundant. Would have preferred a new movie about gladiators unrelated to the iconic original.

Naturally, we compare the new one to the original. I like how they incorporated some sc-fi, medieval aspects with the hybrid monkey and the shark-filled arena. I thought the lady that played the mom was not convincing and gave a lukewarm performance. The main character was a great choice and I like the inclusion of other nationalities in this version.

Gladiator II was a fun watch. Was it as good at the first one? No. I believe the advancement in film technology hurt this movie more than helped. The acting was what really sold this and made an interesting watch. I thought the story line was just ok. No twist or surprises, just a regular story. Overall 3/5.