First Reactions Call Ridley Scott’s Sequel “Unhinged,” “Deliciously Cinematic And Machiavellian”: “Can’t Believe Ridley

https://deadline.com/2024/10/gladiator-ii-first-reactions-ridley-scott-sequel-unhinged-deliciously-cinematic-machiavellian-1236121555/

Are you not entertained? Because just about everyone who’s seen Gladiator II is taking to social media in praise of Ridley Scott‘s highly-anticipated sequel.

Although at least one viewer argued that the followup is “largely uneven and lacks the emotional punch of the first film,” many of the first reactions to the film are raving about the “epic Roman opera,” as well as buzzing about Oscar attention for Scott and star Denzel Washington, following a special screening Friday on the Paramount lot.

“GLADIATOR II works best as an acting showcase for Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, & Joseph Quinn. It’s largely uneven & lacks the emotional punch of the first film,” wrote Salazar on X. “However, Ridley Scott’s direction is unhinged, framing this as an epic Roman opera. The visuals get the job done.”

Jillian Chilingerian, co-founder and editor of Offscreen Central, called the movie “an absolute triumph,” adding in the post: “Ridley Scott places you in the action of the arena centered on legacy and honor amping up the blood, battles, and biceps for something so deliciously cinematic and Machiavellian. Pedro Pascal, Paul Mescal, & Joseph Quinn certified movie stars.”