Denzel Washington, the two-time Oscar-winning actor, has expressed high admiration for Paul Mescal’s work in “Gladiator 2” and the formidable task of stepping into the legacy of Russell Crowe’s renowned performance. This sequel to Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator” (2000) takes place nearly twenty years after the demise of Maximus, played by Crowe, and centers on Lucius, portrayed by Mescal, as he rises to fame within the Colosseum. Washington takes on the role of Macrinus, an arms dealer, who appears to play a pivotal role in Lucius’ journey, alongside Pedro Pascal’s character, Marcus Acacius.
During a recent discussion with Variety, Washington was questioned about the performances of Mescal and Pascal in “Gladiator 2.” He praised both actors as “great,” emphasizing that Mescal, in particular, meets the lofty expectations set by Crowe’s Maximus in the original film. Washington humorously noted that his role was relatively straightforward, revealing that a new trailer for the movie would be released on September 23. His complete remarks are below:
“Not good. Great. Both of them. It’s a hard act to follow, and Paul pulled it off. He’s his own gladiator. I didn’t have to do anything but this [sips water with pinky up]. That was my job. Just twirl the glass, twirl the goblet, and hold whatever I had in my other hand. And make sure I don’t step on my gown. A new trailer [for ‘Gladiator 2’] comes out on the 23rd. It’s epic.”
Implications of Washington’s Remarks for “Gladiator 2”
The Original Film by Scott Sets an Exceptionally High Standard
“Gladiator” remains one of the most cherished films in Scott’s extensive career. It garnered critical acclaim, boasting an 80% critics score and an 87% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Nominated for 12 Academy Awards and winning Best Picture, “Gladiator” also triumphed at the box office, amassing $465.4 million globally. This epic saga is largely credited with propelling Crowe to stardom, culminating in his Best Actor Oscar win.
Gladiator 2 Living Up To Expectations Is Even More Difficult After Ridley Scott's Comments
All of this underscores the considerable expectations placed on Scott’s sequel, posing a significant challenge for the film to match its predecessor’s success. As the leading face of “Gladiator 2,” much of the responsibility lies with Mescal, who is venturing into uncharted territory with a project of this magnitude. Washington’s endorsement is an encouraging indication that Mescal is prepared to meet this formidable challenge.
Our Perspective on Washington’s Commendation of Mescal in “Gladiator 2”
Lucius Represents a New Frontier for Mescal
It’s important to acknowledge that Washington is unlikely to critique Mescal or “Gladiator 2” while promoting the film. As an actor, part of his role is to promote the project. Nevertheless, given Washington’s stature as one of the leading talents of his generation, his accolades for Mescal and Pascal carry significant weight and merit attention.
Mescal has primarily taken on dramatic roles in smaller productions until now, with “Gladiator 2” marking his debut in a physically demanding role within a major blockbuster. If the film succeeds and his portrayal is well-received, it could potentially lead to more opportunities for Mescal in similar roles. While audiences will ultimately decide if Mescal’s Lucius is a fitting successor to Crowe, Washington’s confidence in the younger actor suggests he is well-equipped to lead “Gladiator 2” to triumph.
Source: Variety
Gladiator II
- Action
- Drama
- Epic
- History
- Adventure
Gladiator 2 is the follow-up to Ridley Scott's award-winning film Gladiator from 2000. Scott returns to direct the sequel, with Paul Mescal staring as Lucius, alongside Denzel Washington and Joseph Quinn as the villain Emperor Geta. Gladiator 2 had been stuck in development hell for years before a script written by David Scarpa finally moved forward.
