It’s been 25 years since Sir Ridley Scott directed Russell Crowe in Gladiator, the Roman epic now considered one of the greatest films ever made.

The blockbuster won Best Picture and Best Actor Oscars, among other awards, and arguably had a perfect ending.

Naturally, when a sequel was announced, fans were concerned.

But now such fears look like they can be dispelled after the glowing first reactions to Gladiator 2, which follows Lucius from the first film all grown up and fighting in the arena himself. Check out what the critics said below.

Variety
Welcome back to the f*****g movies! That sums up Gladiator II. Ridley Scott’s best directorial effort since Black Hawk Down. I found Paul Mescal’s work as Lucius to be one of the film’s most honest surprises. This is Denzel Washington, having the time of his life in one of his most killer roles yet. A third Oscar could very well come his way. Sound, visuals, costumes, you name it, this movie’s got it. Another blockbuster the Academy can most definitely embrace. Let’s f**ing go!

Matt Ramos
Gladiator II isn’t just arguably the best film of the year, it’s one of the best of all-time. It’s one of those films that will reinvigorate your love for cinema. It defies expectations. The performances are outstanding (Denzel just locked in another Oscar).

Jillian Chili
Gladiator 2 is an absolute triumph, 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.

Scott Menzel
Gladiator II is Ridley Scott’s best film since The Martian. A big, bloody and bad ass action spectacle that builds upon the legacy of the original. The film showcases beautiful set pieces and a lot of epic battles. Paul Mescal shines. Denzel Washington chews up the scenery quite a bit here and looks like he is having the time of his life.

Erik Anderson
Gladiator II is a true epic and Ridley Scott’s best in years. Paul Mescal is a great action star without sacrificing his indie grit, a worthy heir to the throne. Denzel Washington eats every line and costume without ever overplaying.

The Wrap
Rest easy, Romans. Gladiator 2 is the kind of large scale filmmaking excellence only Ridley Scott could corral. Everything about it just works. Big [Top Gun] Maverick vibes in its ability to conjure the past while adding something new. Bold, muscular filmmaking from a legendary talent.

FilmSpeak
Ridley Scott returns to the Colesseum to prove to the world that HE’S. STILL. GOT. IT. Absolutely BUZZING after Gladiator II! An EPIC Shakespearean tale of hope, futility & power within a crumbling system. Denzel FEASTS in a showstopping, Machiavellian performance. What a picture!

Simon Thompson
Gladiator II serves up the richest feast in the epic action set pieces and deliciously ribald treachery. Dovetailing stylishly with the original, Paul Mescal leads a solid, stellar cast with aplomb. Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger are a collective powerhouse.

Nerds of Color
You will be entertained. Gladiator. II is awesome, awe-inspiring, and action-packed! It is Sir Ridley proving that nobody else can do epics like him! You’ll want to see this in the biggest arena possible!

Gladiator II hits UK cinemas on November 15, 2024.