Gladiator II – Budget of $210 – 250 million – 2 hours and 28 minutes
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Twin Emperors Geta and Caracalla rule Rome 16 years after Marcus Aurelius’s death. The twins ignored Marcus’s vision of a Roman government ruled by the people. They want to expand their dominance to other countries with the help of their general, Acacius. Acacius leads his men into battle against North Africa to continue Geta and Caracalla’s campaign. Acacius and his soldiers are victorious, capture the defeated soldiers, and make them slaves to Rome, including a refugee named Hanno. Acacius takes the slaves to Ostia. There, Macrinus will determine which slaves will make the best gladiators.
Acacius sees the emperors’ corrupt ways and becomes disillusioned with Roman rule. He shares his thoughts with his wife, Lucilla. She shares her father’s vision and agrees with Acacius. They must find people who agree and secretly overthrow the emperors. They don’t know how long it will take but have a sense of urgency.
Macrinus studies the slaves, and Hanno captures his eye. Hanno possesses a fighting spirit that no one can teach. Also, Hanno recites a passage from a Roman poet. Macrinus can see that Hanno has an education. Macrinus despises the emperors’ rule and wants to overthrow them, too. But he wants Hanno to be his instrument of destruction. Hanno agrees, but only if Macrinus allows him to kill Acacius. Macrinus doesn’t know Hanno’s secret history of the Roman Empire and true Gladiator.
This movie doesn’t focus on the battles like its predecessor (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). It uses drama to drive the story forward. This sequel feels more like Shakespeare than an action film. While sporadically captivating, it runs too long because the audience came to be ‘entertained.’ The costumes, dialogue, and set design teleport you into 180 AD. However, the audience doesn’t rally behind or have concern for Hanno. You will find Macrinus more intriguing than the Gladiator. This picture is bloody and theatrical, but it’s missing a spark.
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
I claim this city for the glory of Rome – General Acacius
Not for you – Hanno
I own your house. I want your loyalty – Macrinus
How many of them will be loyal to you alone – Lucilla
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