After an excruciating 24-year wait, Gladiator II, the much-anticipated sequel to the Academy Award-winning classic Gladiator, is set to grace theaters later this year. Even though the film’s release is two months away, director Ridley Scott is already exploring concepts for Gladiator 3.
In a conversation with France’s Premiere magazine, Scott revealed his excitement about the potential for a third installment. He mentioned that the conclusion of Gladiator II serves as an inspiration, drawing parallels with the ending of The Godfather, where Michael Corleone finds himself in an unwanted position and wonders, ‘What comes next, Father?’
Scott remarked, “I’m already playing around with the idea for Gladiator 3. No joke! I’ve lit the fuse. The ending of Gladiator II evokes feelings akin to The Godfather, and the subsequent film will delve into a man who is reluctant to be in his current situation.”
As is common in Hollywood, the future of Gladiator 3 hinges on the success of its prequel. However, Gladiator II faces significant challenges, particularly with a budget exceeding $250 million, with reports suggesting it may climb past $300 million, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Among the highly anticipated films for fall 2024, Gladiator II stars Paul Mescal as Lucius Verus, the displaced heir to the Empire sent away from Rome during his childhood by his mother, Lucilla (Connie Nielsen). Now an adult residing in Numidia, Lucius finds his life upended when Roman troops invade his village and enslave him, thrusting him into gladiatorial training.
Joining Mescal and Nielsen, the cast of Gladiator II includes Pedro Pascal as Marcus Acacius, Joseph Quinn as Emperor Geta, Fred Hechinger as Emperor Caracalla, Derek Jacobi as Senator Gracchus, and Denzel Washington as Macrinus.
Ridley Scott directs Gladiator II from a script penned by David Scarpa, based on a story he co-created with Peter Craig.
Mark your calendars: Gladiator II is set to premiere in theaters on November 22, 2024.