Gladiator II [DVD]

Gladiator 2 is a blood‑and‑sand sequel. The film’s opening battle sequence is not as strong as the original’s Germania campaign, which remains one of Ridley Scott’s most iconic set pieces. The original film slowed down after the opening Germania battle to reset the story, Gladiator 2 keeps its narrative and action energy high. The political intrigue, arena sequences, and character arcs interlock more tightly, giving the film a faster sustained pace than its predecessor. A bold twist that reshapes the sequel, Lucius is the son of Lucilla and Maximus, who after a duel with Macrinus reclaims his identity as Imperial Heir. Overall, a hard act to follow, but an enjoyable family film. Well worth watching.

Decent film but not as good as the original which is one of my favourites.

It was never going to be as good as the first film and nor could it be. This second installment was very good though and if you liked the first then you will probably like this one too. Aside from some rather dodgy CGI scenes (the ships at sea, rabid baboons and the sharks) it was a good plot with decent if unspectacular acting. I expected worse to be honest.

Great Film!!!

Not as good as the first one but still enjoyed it

Not as good at first one but still worth watching

Really good delivery the film itself was a letdown

Ah, Gladiator 2—the latest colossal, blood-soaked extravaganza from those frightfully enthusiastic fellows in Hollywood. And, wouldn’t you know it, there I am, splendidly draped in Roman armour, barking orders with all the authority of a senior civil servant who’s just found his tea slightly understeeped. It’s all rather a grand affair—dust, sweat, swords swinging about with the sort of reckless abandon one expects from people who clearly haven’t filled out the proper paperwork. Of course, there’s the usual parade of square-jawed heroes, strapping young chaps whose muscles have muscles, all gleaming in the sun like polished doorknobs. And naturally, I—well, rather splendidly played by the great Tim McInnerny (ahem)—strut about as one of the senior Romans, trying desperately to keep my head attached to my shoulders while everyone else is lopping limbs off left, right, and centre. Quite the balancing act, really. The film itself? Oh, marvellously shot. Dramatic battles, rousing speeches, the works. But one does feel that some of the chaps involved take it all rather too seriously—honestly, a good chuckle wouldn’t have gone amiss. All told, it’s an absolute riot of chaos, heroism, and absurdly large swords. And frankly, I rather enjoyed it, though I do believe the Romans could benefit from a little more bureaucracy and a touch less stabbing. Four stars, I say—marvellous fun, though they could’ve thrown in a nice relaxing administrative meeting or two. Would’ve done wonders for everyone’s stress levels.

Très bien

Der Film ist hart aber gut

muy bien

Bellissimo.

Great movie