Gladiator II *****

Starring : Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Connie Nielsen, Denzel Washington, Sir Derek Jacobi, Tim McInnerny, Alexander Karim, Rory McCann,Yuval Gonen, Yann Gael, May Calamawy, Alec Utgoff, Lior Raz, Peter Mensah and Matt Lucas

Director : Sir Ridley Scott

Duration Running Time : [approx] 2 Hours 28 Minutes (148 Mins)

Certification Rating Certificate : 15

Distribution : Paramount Pictures, Universal Pictures, Scott Free Productions, Red Wagon Entertainment, Parkes + McDonald Image Nation, Lucy Fisher/Douglas Wick Productions

''GLADIATOR II'' - in question, has been classed as 'A LONG-AWAITED SEQUEL TO THE ORIGINAL' - taking at least 'TWENTY-FOUR YEARS' - to come to fruition, and that which can also be in the words of Jim Bowen, the original quizmaster of 'BULLSEYE' - an original tv show, created by Andrew Wood and also Norman Vaughan that's centred around the world of darts - that the original show in question was classed simply as - a bit of a gamble -at the box offices worldwide.

The original film to the follow-up entitled as 'GLADIATOR' - (see previous review) directed by Sir Ridley Scott - [aka Sir Riddius Scottius] this is 'the original movie' which featured Russell Crowe as Maximius Decimus Meridius, as a loyal Roman general leading an army to victory and in the process is ultimately betrayed by Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), the ambitious son of Emperor Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris).

Anyway, after being 'reduced to slavery', Maximus, in question, soon turns into 'A UNIQUE GLADIATOR' - and that in the process -sets out on his unique journey - and also seeks 'REVENGE' against Commodus, in question, and ultimately plans his strategy while also strives to 'RESTORE THE HONOUR' - to his lovingly family - and also - the 'GLORY OF ROME'.

'GLADIATOR' was in fact 'A MASSIVE SUCCESS' at 'BOX-OFFICES' worldwide - 'GROSSING OVER AT LEAST' $465m (￡356,271,375.00 -UK) -and also 'WINNING' at least - 'FIVE ACADEMY AWARDS' - including 'BEST PICTURE' - Douglas Wick, David Franzoni and also Branko Lustig - and also - 'BEST ACTOR' - Russell Crowe.

The film also gave Crowe, back into the stratosphere, and also boosted Sir Ridley Scott's chances back into the club of the 'A' LISTERS - after almost a decade of many 'MISFIRES', and also that as the legendary guy is about to celebrate his unique 87th birthday on November 30, that the older he gets, the less that he only cares about habits and also many expectations in life.

The film in question - was also - 'PRAISED' - for its - 'ORIGINAL ACTING' - as well as - 'DIRECTING', 'CINEMATOGRAPHY', 'PRODUCTION DESIGN', and also 'ORIGINAL MUSIC SCORE', and that at its time - it was also classed as 'A POWERFUL AND ALSO A VISUALLY STUNNING FILM' - that has left many 'AUDIENCES' - including 'yours truly' - as an 'EVER LASTING IMPACT IN THE HISTORY NOT ONLY IN THE FILM INDUSTRY - BUT ALSO CINEMA' - itself - and it is - 'SIMPLY CLASSED AS THE ULTIMATE MOVIE EXPERIENCE -INSIDE A MOVIE THEATER/CINEMA EVER TO GRACED AN APPRECIATION - BY SIMPLY WATCHING IT ON 'THE BIG SCREEN' - where it simply - 'DESERVES TO BE SEEN - FOR THE FULL-ON AND ALSO SUPER-CHARGED - where 'MEMORIES' are 'MADE' - and are also 'REMEMBERED'.

The 'SCREENPLAY' in question, was originally written by screen-writers Franzoni, as well as William Nicholson, and also John Logan - who back in 1998 - was first written by Franzoni and then eventually was joined by both Logan and also Nicholson who both had contributed in completing the original screenplay - and was also originally inspired by 'THOSE ABOUT TO DIE' by Daniel P. Mannix, originally published in 1958, - this is originally classed as 'an historical novel' - and also set in 'ANCIENT ROME' - by simply focusing - 'ON THE BRUTAL WORLD OF GLADIATORIAL COMBAT'.

The original 'LATIN PHRASE' is 'MORITURI TE SALUTANT' - which in theory - simply translates to 'THOSE WHO ARE ABOUT TO DIE SALUTE YOU'.

It was originally supposed to be a unique greeting that was given to many 'GLADIATORS' to the 'EMPEROR' - BEFORE THEY SIMPLY ENGAGED IN BRUTAL COMBAT.

The story of 'the original novel' in question follows Lucius, 'a young Roman', who is ''FORCED TO BECOME A GLADIATOR'' after his family, in question, is betrayed, and also that his home, is virtually destroyed.

The 'ORIGINAL NOVEL' in question, also delves into 'THE HARSH REALITIES' inside 'THE GLADIATORIAL SCHOOLS' in question.

'GLADIATORIAL SCHOOLS' in those days were simply known as ''LUDI'' (singular word 'LUDUS').

These were in fact simply known as 'TRAINING CAMPS' where 'GLADIATORS' - often 'slaves', 'criminals', or even 'prisoners of war' -'POW's' - were in fact simply 'TRAINED TO BECOME SKILLED UNIQUE FIGHTERS TO PERFORM FOR AUDIENCES LOCATED INSIDE THE BLOODY ARENAS' - and also that 'THE MOST FAMOUS OF THESE GLADIATORIAL SCHOOLS' was in fact 'THE LUDUS MAGNUS' that was originally located near 'THE COLOSSEUM' near Rome, Italy.

It was back in 1972, when Franzoni, in question, had originally written 'THE FIRST DRAFT' of the 'GLADIATOR' screenplay who had also travelled across 'EASTERN EUROPE' and also the 'MIDDLE EAST' by motorcycle, and that he recalled and also explained the following story of what happened :

'Everywhere I went in Europe, there were 'ARENAS', 'Even as I went east, going through Turkey that I simply began to think to myself that this must have been a hell of a 'FRANCHISE'.

However, it was that during a stop in Baghdad, Iraq, that he had started reading 'THOSE ABOUT TO DIE', the novel by Daniel P. Mannix, published in 1958, and that which also gave him the original idea for 'GLADIATOR'.

Then in 1997, 'TWENTY-FIVE YEARS' later, Franzoni, in question, had wrote the screenplay for 'AMISTAD' directed by Steven Spielberg, and featuring an all-star cast including Sir Anthony Hopkins, Morgan Freeman, Djimon Hounson, Matthew McConaghey, Nigel Hawthorne, David Paymer, Stellan Skarsgard, Anna Pacquin and also Pete Postlethwaite, and also which was in fact Spielberg's 'FIRST FILM' for Dreamworks Pictures, by the way, just for the record Spielberg is also part owner of Dreamworks Pictures as the other two people involved with Spielberg include Jeffrey Katzenberg and also David Geffen.

Anyway 'AMISTAD' in question is classed as 'A HISTORICAL EPIC FILM' and also revolves around the year of our lord 1839 when a group of 'MENDE TRIBESMEN' who were simply 'CAPTURED' and also 'SOLD' into 'SLAVERY' in Cuba, Havana, had in fact managed to at least overthrow their original captors in a 'MUTINY' aboard the 'SPANISH SLAVE SHIP' known as 'LA AMISTAD' and in 'SPANISH' is in fact 'FRIENDSHIP' - which therefore meaning is 'THAT IT IS SIMPLY REPRESENTING' - 'THE UNIQUE BOND AND ALSO THE CONNECTION BETWEEN FRIENDS'.

Led by Cinque (Hounson), the 'MENDE TRIBESMEN' in question had in fact 'SIMPLY TOOK CONTROL OF THE SHIP' hoping to 'GET BACK' and also 'SAIL TO AFRICA'.

However, they were in fact 'MISDIRECTED' and also 'ENDED UP OFF THE COAST OF LONG ISLAND' - to where that 'THEY WERE UNIQUELY CAPTURED AND ALSO IMPRISONED' as 'RUNAWAY SLAVES'.

The film in question - also follows 'THE LEGAL BATTLE' that also ensued 'RAISING CONTROVERSIAL QUESTIONS' about 'SLAVERY' and also 'FREEDOM' - and also ultimately - 'REACHING THE HIGH COURT'.

This is also classed as 'A POWERFUL AND ALSO AN EMOTIONAL EPIC FILM' that simply highlights 'THE HORRORS OF SLAVERY' and also 'THE UNIQUE FIGHT FOR JUSTICE', also for the record 'AMISTAD' is available to view on Paramount Plus.

But also though that 'AMISTAD' was also only classed as 'a moderate commercial success', 'DREAMWORKS PICTURES' were in fact 'very impressed' with Franzoni's 'screenplay' and also gave him at least - 'A THREE-PICTURE DEAL' - as a writer - and also a co-producer, however Franzoni in question - remembering his epic-trip to Europe and also the Middle East back in 1972, - had in fact - then 'PITCHED HIS IDEA' to Spielberg, who Spielberg, in return then immediately told Franzoni to 'SIMPLY WRITE THE SCRIPT'.

And soon it was that after reading the ancient roman text of 'HISTORIA AUGUSTA' - this is simply classed as 'A LATE ROMAN COLLECTION' of 'biographies' - originally written in Latin, of the Roman emperors, their junior colleagues, designated heirs, and also usurpers from the year 117 to 284, that Franzoni in question, had in fact chosen to 'CENTER THE STORY' on 'COMMODUS'.

Now, the 'PROTAGONIST' in question was 'CENTERED' on 'NARCISSUS', a Roman athlete and wrestler from the '2ND CENTURY' 'AD' - [ANNO DOMINI], and who also according to the ancient historians 'HERODIAN' and also 'CASSIUS DIO' had in fact - 'strangled' Commodus to death in the year 192.

Then Walter F.Parkes and also Douglas Wick, two film producers working at DreamWorks Pictures felt that Sir Ridley Scott would be classed as 'THE IDEAL CANDIDATE' and also to bring Franzoni's original visionary story to life - and that both Parkes and also Wick had in fact shown 'SIR RIDDERS' a copy of French artist's Jean-Léon Gér?me's 1872 masterpiece painting of 'POLLICE VERSO' - this featured the eponymous Roman gesture that was originally directed to the 'WINNING GLADIATOR' and which Scott then originally said that portrays 'THE ROMAN EMPIRE' - in all - 'ITS GLORY AND WICKEDNESS' - but also that Scott in question, was so 'CAPTIVATED' by the 'IMAGE' in question - that - he had immediately had agreed to direct the picture - but also that when Parkes had pointed out that Scott in question 'DID NOT KNOW ABOUT ANYTHING ABOUT THE STORY BY SIMPLY REGARDING THE ORIGINAL PAINTING' - then 'RIDDERS' had replied the following statement: stating in his own unique words - 'I DON'T CARE, I'LL DO IT.'

Once 'Ridders' was on board, both he and also Franzoni had discussed many films that could influence 'GLADIATOR' such as 'ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST' {1975}, directed by Milos Forman, a Czech-born film director, writer and also actor, 'LA DOLCE VITA' {1960}, directed by Frederico Fellini and featuring Marcello Mastroianni and also Anita Ekberg, and also 'THE CONFORMIST' {1970}, this is a political drama film directed by Bernardo Bertolucci and featuring Jean-Louis Tintrignant, however Scott in question, felt that Franzoni's original dialogue had lacked as subtlety, and also had in fact hired John Logan, to 'rewrite the script' along with William Nicholson.

Now Logan, in question, had in fact 'REWRITTEN MUCH OF THE FIRST ACT' - and also made 'THE UNIQUE DECISION - TO KILL OFF MAXIMUS'S FAMILY' -in order to 'INCREASE THE UNIQUE CHARACTER'S DESIRE FOR REVENGE' -and by November 1998, 'DREAMWORKS PICTURES' HAD IN FACT REACHED 'A UNIQUE DEAL' WITH 'UNIVERSAL PICTURES' - basically, to help - 'FINANCE THE FILM'.

Meanwhile, in June 2001, there were unique developments for a 'GLADIATOR FOLLOW-UP' which originally began in the form of 'EITHER A PREQUEL - OR EVEN A SEQUEL' to the 'ORIGINAL MOVIE' - and which this was 'ACTUALLY A CARBON-COPY' of 'THE FALL OF THE ROMAN EMPIRE' originally released back in 1964 and also directed by Anthony Mann, a director who you would normally associate with the 'GENRE' of 'THE WESTERN MOVIE' - though Mann did direct at least 'TWO EPIC MOVIES' consisting of not only 'THE FALL OF THE ROMAN EMPIRE' featuring Sophia Loren, Stephen Boyd, Sir Alec Guinness, James Mason and also Christopher Plummer as Commodus.

But also that in 1961, Mann had also directed 'EL CID' featuring Loren and also Charlton Heston an actor who's no stranger of appearing in many 'EPIC MOVIES' that were shown on many 'BIG SCREENS' inside many movie theaters/cinemas which at the time that they were shown on a 'GRAND SCALE' and which many of these would include an 'INTERMISSION' which at the time in those days were simply 'BUILT-IN' at around the half-way point of the main feature - lasting about 10-15 minutes - where many would go to the 'rest-room' to refresh and also visit the refreshment counter to stock up on items such as hot-dogs, confectionery, and also many drinks just to boost up on their energies by strengthening their Adrenalins and also watching epic blockbuster movies on the 'BIG SCREEN'.

The 1960's was at that time, classed as 'A REMARKABLE DECADE' for 'CINEMA' in question, by simply producing many 'ICONIC EPIC MOVIES' and which that 'ALSO STOOD THE ACID TEST OF TIME' and also included the following movies :

'LAWRENCE OF ARABIA' {1962} - Directed by Sir David Lean - this 'EPIC FILM' chronicles the life of T.E.Lawrence {Peter O'Toole}, and also 'HIS UNIQUE ROLE' in the 'ARAB REVOLT' against 'THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE' during 'WWI'.

'CLEOPATRA' {1963} - Directed by Joseph L.Mankiewicz - this lavish 'EPIC HISTORICAL DRAMA' stars Dame Elizabeth Taylor as Cleopatra and also Richard Burton as Mark Antony, depicting the 'political and also the romantic intrigues of ancient Egypt.

'SPARTACUS' {1960} - Directed by Stanley Kubrick - this 'EPIC MOVIE' featuring Kirk Douglas, who was also the 'executive producer' and also 'adapted' by Dalton Trumbo, based on the novel by Howard Fast - originally published back in 1951 - tells the story of Spartacus {Douglas}, a famous gladiator, who in fact led a 'SLAVE REVOLT' against 'THE ROMAN REPUBLIC'.'BRYNA PRODUCTIONS' which also happens to be Kirk Douglas's production film company, had in fact originally hired the unique services of Anthony Mann, a film director, then three weeks later, the original footage that Mann had originally shot was 'removed' and that as a result, Mann was also removed from the film.

However, Kubrick, with whom Douglas, in question, had directed 'PATHS OF GLORY' {1957}, took over as director from Mann.

Now this was in fact 'THE ONLY FILM WHERE KUBRICK DID NOT HAVE ARTISTIC CONTROL', but also that Trumbo, a screenwriter, was also 'BLACKLISTED', at the time as 'ONE OF THE HOLLYWOOD TEN' - this refers to the 'MID 20TH CENTURY BANNING OF SUSPECTED COMMUNISTS WORKING IN THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY'.

Douglas, in question, had publicity 'ANNOUNCED' that 'TRUMBO WAS THE SCREENWRITER OF SPARTACUS', and also that John F. Kennedy, the 'U.S PRESIDENT' in question, had crossed 'AMERICAN LEGION' picket lines - to - 'VIEW THE FILM' and also hoping to end 'BLACKLISTING' - and also that 'THE ORIGINAL NOVEL' by Fast, - had also been 'BLACKLISTED', and also that Fast himself, 'HAD TO SELF-PUBLISH' the 'ORIGINAL EDITION'.

'THE GUNS OF NAVARONE' {1961}, Directed by John (J.) Lee Thompson - This is classed as a 'WWII' epic adventure - based on the acclaimed novel by Alistair MacLean about a group of Allied commandos consisting of Gregory Peck, Sir David Niven, Anthony Quinn, Anthony Quayle, Sir Stanley Baker, and James Darren, plus Irene Papas, and also Gia Scala who are on a deadly mission to destroy massive German guns that are originally situated on the Greek island of Navarone.

'DOCTOR ZHIVAGO' {1965}, Directed by Sir David Lean - This is also classed as a sweeping epic set against the unique backdrop of the Russian Revolution and also revolves around Yuri Zhivago {Omar Sharif}, a physician and also a poet who is also torn between the love of two women - notably Tonya Gromyk (Geraldine Chaplin), the daughter of Sir Charles 'CHARLIE' Chaplin and also Lara Antipova (Julie Christie). But also that as the political landscape of Russia shifts dramatically it is then that Zhivago's life soon becomes a tumultuous journey consisting of love, loss and also survival. However, it is that through his unique eyes that we as the audience see the unique impact on the revolution on individuals, and also that the film in question captures both the unique beauty and also the sheer brutality of this historical period.

''GLADIATOR II' in question, has been originally dubbed as 'THE STRANGEST SEQUEL THAT WAS ORIGINALLY NEVER MADE' - and that just before 'SIR RIDDERS' originally set his 'TEMPLATE VISION' for the 'LONG-AWAITED SEQUEL' - is that he also had a whole other story in mind - 'ONE THAT ALSO INVOLVES CROWE'S ORIGINAL CHARACTER OF MAXIMUS - COMING BACK FROM THE DEAD.

It was back in 2017, when Scott had explained in an interview with 'ME MOVIES' - the following :

'I was having a talk with 'DREAMWORKS PICTURES' - the film studio - but that whatever it will happen that i simply don't know.

'GLADIATOR' the original movie, was released in 2000, so Crowe in question, has certainly changed a little bit.

He's doing something right now but that i'm simply trying to get him back down here.'

Scott, in question, had then hired Nick Cave, an Australian musician, writer, actor, and is also known to have a 'baritone voice' as well as fronting the rock band known as Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds and which incidentally that his music in question is also characterised by emotional intensity, in a wide variety of influences and also lyrical obsessions surrounding many themes such as death, religion, love, and also violence to write the original script, one which would have had 'MAXIMUS' using 'THE PORTAL OF A DYING WARRIOR' - to simply to 'COME BACK FROM THE DEAD'.

Cave's 'ORIGINAL SCRIPT' was in fact written in and also around 2006, and also sat on the 'DREAMWORKS PICTURES' shelf for up to at least 'TEN YEARS'.

Crowe was also 'onboard' to return for the 'SEQUEL TO THE ORIGINAL' - and also that as a matter of fact that 'HE IN QUESTION -WAS ALSO THE ONE - WHO HAD SIMPLY CONTACTED CAVE - TO WRITE THE SCRIPT'.

Cave, the singer, had also 'DETAILED HIS ORIGINAL SCRIPT - AND ALSO ENTITLED IT AS - 'CHRIST KILLER' - on a recent 'WTF' podcast episode.

'{CROWE}' in question, rang me up and asked if i wanted to write 'GLADIATOR II' - he explained.

''Now for someone who had only written 'ONE FILM SCRIPT', it was also quite an ask.

'Hey Russell, didn't you die in 'GLADIATOR I' ? '

'Yeah, you sort that out.'

'So, he goes down to purgatory and is also sent down by the gods, who are in fact dying in heaven just because that there's this one god, there's also this Christ character, down on Earth and who is also gaining popularity - and so in fact that the many gods in question - are simply dying - and that in doing so - send 'GLADIATOR' back to 'KILL CHRIST -AND ALL HIS FOLLOWERS'.

'Cave, in question, had in fact originally wanted to call it as ''CHRIST KILLER'' and also that in the end is that you then find out the 'THE MAIN GUY' in question was in fact 'ACTUALLY HIS SON', and so that 'HE HAS TO KILL HIS SON' but also that 'HE WAS SIMPLY TRICKED' by the gods.

He also becomes this eternal warrior, and that it simply ends with this ''TWENTY MINUTE WAR SCENE - WHICH ALSO SIMPLY FOLLOWS ALL THE WARS IN HISTORY, - RIGHT UP TO VIETNAM.''

It was also classed as a 'STONE COLD MASTERPIECE'.

And that i also enjoyed writing it very much because i personally knew that on every level - that at the end of the day - that it was simply - NEVER GOING TO GET IT MADE - AND SO LET'S CALL IT AS A POPCORN DROPPER.''

That's right, and that in Nick Cave's hands, that 'GLADIATOR II' in question, would have also involved a 'CHRIST LIKE MAN-GOD' - who - 'SIMPLY GOES DOWN TO PURGATORY - AND IS THEN SENT BACK BY THE GODS'.

But also that simply according to Cave in question - 'THAT THE ORIGINAL PROJECT - CAME TO A HALT' - after Crowe had in fact 'READ THE SCRIPT' - that he also came up with the 'ULTIMATE ANSWER' to the 'QUESTION', - by saying the following :

''Don't like it, mate.''

However, if you're curious about 'GLADIATOR II : CHRIST KILLER' in question, then it has also been available to simply read online.

But also that even if 'THE SCRIPT' in question, had also had been 'GREENLIT' this decade, then Crowe, in question, would have also needed to simply embark on a unique major physical transformation as he is currently, and also not definitely, not in the unique kind of shape that he simply was about 'TWENTY-FIVE YEARS' ago.

Cave, in question, also creates original film scores with fellow 'BAD SEEDS' member Warren Ellis - and that both Cave and also Ellis had in fact originally teamed up back in 2005 to work on 'THE PROPOSITION' directed by John Hillcoat, is classed as a 'gritty Australian Western' and also that for which Cave had also wrote the screenplay.

Now the film in question also featured Guy Pearce, Ray Winstone, Danny Huston, Sir John Hurt, David Wenham, Richard Wilson and also Emily Watson.

The film in question is set in the 'harsh outback' of 1880's Australia and also follows Charlie Burns {Pearce}, a member of the notorious Burns gang.

After a violent gunfight Charlie and his younger brother Mikey {Wilson}, are in fact - 'the only survivors'.

Meanwhile, Captain Morris Stanley {Winstone}, captures Charlie, and also 'makes him a unique proposition' : this 'proposition' is simply to hunt down - and also kill Arthur {Huston}, his older brother, and who is also wanted for rape and murder, in 'exchange' for Mikey's freedom.

Charlie, has only 'NINE DAYS' (or one week and two days - to be exact) to complete this task or Mikey will be executed on Christmas Day [December 25].

The film in question also explores many themes throughout such as loyalty, revenge, and also justice in a lawless land, and that is known for its stark, beautiful cinematography, and also its intense performances throughout.

Also Cave and Ellis's various film soundtracks also include the following :

'THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD' [2007], directed by Andrew Dominick and featuring Brad Pitt as Jesse James, and also Casey Affleck as Robert Ford.

'THE ROAD' [2009], directed by John Hillcoat (again) and also featuring Viggo Mortensen, Kodi Smit McPhee, Robert Duvall, Guy Pearce {again}, Charlize Theron, Molly Parker, and also Garrett Dillahunt.

'LAWLESS' [2012] directed by John Hillcoat (yet again) and featuring Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, Gary Oldman, Mia Wasikowska, Jessica Chastain, Jason Clarke and also Guy Pearce {yet again}.

'WAR MACHINE' [2017] directed by David Michod and also featuring Brad Pitt {again}, Anthony Michael Hall, Anthony Hayes, Topher Grace, Will Poulter, Tilda Swinton and also Sir Ben Kingsley.

Cave's music in film soundtracks, is also known for its dark transformative themes, and therefore making it as a perfect fit for 'various film genres' ranging from 'WESTERNS' to 'HORROR' and also 'DRAMA' plus Cave in question, had also made 'his film debut' as himself in 'WINGS OF DESIRE' {1987} directed by Wim Wenders, and featuring Bruno Ganz, Solveig Dommartin, Otto Sander, Curt Bois, and also Peter Falk (yes Lt Columbo himself -minus his old raincoat original trademark - for this is simply classed as a romantic fantasy film set in Berlin, Germany, and also where the story in question revolves around 'two angels' notably Damiel {Ganz}, and also Cassiel {Sander}, who in question, invisibly 'wander around the city', also 'listening to the thoughts of its inhabitants' and also 'offering comfort when they can'.

Damiel, in question, also falls in love with Marion {Dommartin}, a lonely trapeze artist, and also decides to become 'human and to also experience physical as well as also emotional sensations'.

Now the film in question, is also known for its 'unique exploration of many themes - involving love, loneliness, and also the human condition, plus it also 'WON HIM' 'THE BEST DIRECTOR AWARD' at the Cannes Film Festival.

Incidentally, just for the record, 'UNIVERSAL PICTURES' - the original film distributor - of the first movie - had in fact -''declined''- to ''co-finance - the sequel -or even - the follow-up '' or maybe even ''distribute it'' overseas - as it had also - the first film - in question - and therefore leaving 'PARAMOUNT PICTURES'' - another original film distributor - as - ''THE WORLDWIDE FILM DISTRIBUTOR''.

'GLADIATOR II' - the 'LONG-AWAITED' follow-up would once again be written by Franzoni, who along with both Logan and also Nicholson would simply emulate the original formula of 'THE FIRST MOVIE' and that their would be many plot lines circulating that 'THIS FILM' would involve the character of Lucius seen in the 'FIRST FILM' as a young boy {Spencer Treat Clark} is the true son of Maximus {Crowe} his real father, and also Lucilla {Nielsen} his real mother, and who also 'REPRISES HER ORIGINAL ROLE' in the 'SEQUEL' - but also that this is a 'CONTINUATION' of a 'REAL EPIC BLOCKBUSTER OF A MONUMENTAL MOVIE' - however just think of this as 'STAR WARS' - but instead of a 'SPECTACULAR SPACE MOVIE' that's simply 'OUT OF THIS WORLD' - just think of this as 'A GLADIATORIAL MOVIE - SET IN THE ARENAS THAT'S LOCATED INSIDE THE COLOSSEUM AND ALSO WHERE THE AUDIENCES OF VAST CROWDS THAT ARE INSIDE - ARE SIMPLY WATCHING YOUR EVERY MOVE - AND ALSO HOPING THAT A NEW CHAMPION IS GLORIOUSLY CROWNED'.

Now the true synopsis of this story to the original movie and which by the way 'this unique epic' lasting about 'ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY EIGHT MINUTES' of 'JUST UNDER TWO AND A HALF HOURS' which is about and also just as exciting cleaning up your prized antique possession of a uniquely antique known as a 'LETHAL WEAPON' by using a special lubricant just to 'shine out' [also other cleaning lubricant products - are also available] and which also has plenty of action involving 'POWER', 'INTRIGUE', and also 'VENGEANCE' that you would simply find in a 'EPIC SAGA' involving 'plenty of an exhilarating BLAST' that also involves 'plenty of 'SWORDS', 'SWEAT' and even 'BLOODSHED' throughout and also set in 'ANCIENT ROME' - but also be warned as 'WHAT YOU ARE ABOUT TO SEE - WILL SIMPLY SALUTE YOU' ! in this latest instalment is also like a carbon-copy of 'THE FIRST MOVIE' in question - 'BUT ALSO THAT IT IS EVEN BETTER THAT THE ORIGINAL' are as follows :

Many years later,{about 16 years to be exact} after leading witnessing the death of Maximus Decimus Meridius {Crowe}, the revered hero - at the hands of Commodus {Phoenix}, that was originally featured in the first movie - his uncle, Lucius 'Hanno' Verus {Mescal}, - but also that Lucilla {Lucius's mother}, had originally 'sent her son' to North Africa, and to where that he in question, is now 'safe' from the violent influence of the Roman Empire.

However, Lucius has now returned home - but now the young boy has become a man - and not only that because he has also become a 'GLADIATOR' - but also that upon his arrival from North Africa,- that Lucius, in question, also happens to be 'THE RIGHTFUL HEIR TO THE ROMAN EMPIRE' - but also that he was originally sent there in exile - in order to save him from 'MURDEROUS HANDS', however, Lucius is now married and also has a family including Arishat {Gonen}, his wife - but then also becomes separated from his family when General Acacius {Pascal}, soon arrives on the scene - but also with his unique 'LEGION OF TROOPS'.

The character of Marcus Acacius, is also classed as a Roman General, and who also previously between Crowe's character of Maximus, but however, 'WAS NOT SEEN IN THE FIRST MOVIE'. Acacius, in question, arrives in Numidia, with many 'ROMAN FORCES' - and also soon 'DECIMATES IT' and also 'TAKES LUCIUS PRISONER'. Acacius, in question, is also a 'RISING POLITICAL POWER' in Rome, and also is in fact no longer wants to send his soldiers to war for the 'EMPERORS'. Acacius, is also classed as a 'KEY ASSOCIATE' as well as 'AN ALLY' for Lucilla.

Just for the record, Numidia, in question, was in fact classed as the ancient kingdom of the Numidians, originally situated in North West Africa, initially comprising the territory that now makes up Algeria, but also later expanding across what is today known as Tunisia and also Libya. The 'POLITY' in question - was in fact - originally divided - between the Massyliii, in the east and also Masaeyli in the west.

It soon becomes clear when Lucius, in question, is then ''sold into slavery'' underneath Macrinus {Washington}, described by many as simply - not only a rich man - but is also classed as - 'a slave owner' - and who in question - also plots to usurp 'THE POWER' from 'SIBLING EMPERORS/BROTHERS' - notably Caracella {Quinn}, and also Geta {Hechinger} - who now 'CLAIM THE THRONE' as a result - think of Donald John Trump - the all-new 47th refurbished US President [he's been down this road before - but got ousted because of his fiddling charges - but now this is his 'SECOND CHANCE' to redeem himself - although a lot can happen in the next 'FOUR YEARS' such as 'CREATING WARS' let alone 'ENDING WARS'] - and who also moves in to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, -aka -'THE WHITEHOUSE' situated in Washington DC on Monday January 20, 2025, 'INAUGURATION DAY' [their unique performances are uniquely like a 'double act' that's simply joined-up at the hip - such as Ant and Dec, Morecambe and Wise, Bert and Ernie, Pinky and Perky, Tingha and Tucker, Laurel and Hardy, and also those strange unusual chaps who, in my day used to work in the 'RESALE DEPARTMENT' - known simply as Gaius Ellisonius and also Neilius Spencerius at a well-known 'international sign company'] as well as 'THE ROMAN EMPIRE' - but that also his unique character - happens to be a powerful man - but is also a former slave who not only holds a grudge - but that he also simply wants to use Lucius - '' as his instrument''- don't worry it isn't a tape measure lasting at least 'TWELVE INCHES'['NOW THAT'S WHAT I CALL A FULL-LENGTH FEATURE OF AN EPIC MOVIE'] - and also that his unique character also fights for his unique freedom as well.

Sir 'RIDDIUS' in question, had in fact described the unique characters of both Caracella and also Geta as uniquely ''DAMAGED GOODS' from birth - and who are ''ALMOST A REPLAY OF BOTH ROMULUS AND ALSO REMUS'' - with also 'TWO OTHER INSPIRATIONS - BEING THE TITULAR CHARACTERS OF BEAVIS AND BUTTHEAD'' - the cartoon shown on 'MTV' for adults only - and that both of these characters are based on both based on 'SID VICIOUS' aka Simon John Ritchie - his real name for the character of Emperor Caracella - and also 'JOHNNY ROTTEN' aka John Joseph Lydon - his real name for the character of Emperor Geta - in question as well.

Now as it happens, it also turns out that it was during the Roman Empire, that slaves in question, also had the unique opportunity to 'SIMPLY EARN THEIR FREEDOM' by 'PURCHASING IT' or even by also securing from their masters through grand acts - and that 'GLADIATOR' in question had in fact also established as the unique opportunity to simply 'EARN THE FREEDOM' through 'THE UNIQUE SUCCESS' inside 'THE ARENA OF THE COLOSSEUM' - and also that the character which Washington portrays in the film also appears to have - 'RECEIVED HIS FREEDOM' - as a 'GLADIATOR' - but also since then that his unique character has become 'VERY RICH' - but also that does not mean that Macrinus in question, has also forgiven the 'EMPIRE' that also enslaved him.

Washington's unique character in this instalment also inherits the role that was originally vacated by Oliver Reed's unique role as Antonius Proximo, a former gruff old 'GLADIATOR' trainer, - and also that Washington's character in this, is uniquely described as a warlord, who also relishes unique political power - for it is he and only he alone that steals the film itself - but also think of this character as a sort of Roman Yevgeny Viktorovich Prigozhin - the real character in question is also a Russian mercenary and oligarch.

Now Prigozhin, in question, had also led the 'WAGNER GROUP', this was also known as a private military company and was also a close confident of Vladimir Putin, the Russian President, that is until June 2023, began launching a rebellion.

Prigozhin, in question, was simply known as 'PUTIN'S CHEF' because that he simply owned 'restaurants' and also 'catering' businesses that also provided services to the 'KREMLIN'.

But also that unbeknownst to Lucilla, his estranged mother, Lucius, in question, who is also reunited with Lucilla is then sent to Rome, and where he uniquely participates in an escalatingly dangerous gladiatorial combat - and where it involves many ships - and also - really wild animals - throughout.

But however there also lies a revelation that Lucius in question - is also revealed as 'THE SON' of Maximus - and that also that Lucius in question - must uniquely deal with this 'LEGACY' - while also 'SURVIVING THE GLADIATORIAL ARENA OF THE COLOSSEUM' - and also plotting to overthrow those who originally had betrayed him.

But also that 'NO ONE EVER MAKES MANY HISTORICAL MOVIES' than 'SIR RIDLEY' or even SIR RIDDIUS - and also that the unique impact of 'GLADIATOR II' - is also uniquely set to be amplified when you finally 'BEAR WITNESS -AND THAT YOU ALSO GET TO SEE IT IN 'IMAX' - this is classed as a 'SPECIAL UNIQUE FORMAT' that's simply been described as 'THE MOTHER' of all the 'SPECIAL FORMATS - THAT YOU'RE EVER LIKELY TO EXPERIENCE - IN YOUR LIFE.

And then there's also that there are also those of a certain vintage that will also recall the time being 'WOWED OVER' by 'THE ORIGINAL' - and even that this was also shown in the 'PRE-IMAX' ERA.

The 'REMASTERING' of 'GLADIATOR II' shown on 'AN IMAX BIG SCREEN' also fully transforms 'EVERY UNIQUE FILM FRAME' of an 'EPIC BLOCKBUSTER' is also 'SPECTACULARLY STUNNING' and also to uniquely produce the best possible version of a filmmaker's unique vision - and also that when you're talking to a greatest filmmaker such as Sir Ridley Scott - then this is also classed as simply the best that one in question could ever have and also experience a unique filmmaker's creation that's ever shown to audiences worldwide, and also the fact that every film that he creates simply turns into 100% 'PURE GOLD' - and not just because he's a master story-teller in cinema itself.

And so one can 'JUST IMAGINE HOW ''GLADIATOR II'' WILL ALSO LOOK IN A VISUAL IMAX CANVAS WITH MANY SCENES SUCH AS 'SHIPS FLOATING IN THE ROMAN COLOSSEUM - THAT ARE NOT ONLY BLOOD-SOAKED AND ALSO SAND-STREAMED' BUT ALSO GETTING UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH A CHARGING RHINO, BABOONS APLENTY AND ALSO LOTS MORE SURPRISES THROUGHOUT' THAT WILL SIMPLY WILL NOT ONLY MAKE YOUR JAW DROP WITH SHEER EXCITEMENT AND ALSO FACING A FEROCIOUS TIGER - IN ITS WAKE - THAT'S AS AMAZING AS A LEONARDO Da VINCI LARGE PORTRAIT THAT WOULD LOOK STUNNINGLY BEAUTIFUL IN AN ART GALLERY - BUT ON AN IMAX SCREEN' - although there are various format cinema screens such as 'SCREEN X', '4DX', and also 'SUPERSCREEN' plus 'NORMAL CINEMA SCREENS' that are also stunning to watch as well - the choice is simply yours that whatever you desire - that by paying your hard earned cash - just to get in - and also to watch this on the 'BIG SCREEN' - that 'THE CINEMA AUDIENCE' in general - is also enjoying 'THE FULL-ON SUPER-CHARGED CINEMA EXPERIENCE' that once you've seen this there will be many movie memories which also lasts longer and also become 'TIMELESS MASTERPIECE CLASSICS'.

'RIDDIUS' in question, doesn't just makes films to show in movie theaters/cinemas for movie audiences worldwide, he simply wants you in question - to be entertained - and that you certainly will - but also that in question 'BUILDS MANY WORLDS -SHOWN ON THE BIG SCREEN' - since his 'directorial debut' in 'THE DUELLISTS' {1977} produced by Lord David Puttnam and featuring Keith Carradine and also Harvey Keitel.

From the 'cavernous interiors of the spaceship Nostromo' in 'ALIEN' {1979}, to the 'eye-scorching' futuristic landscapes in 'BLADE RUNNER' {1982} and beyond, but also that 'RIDDERS' is also renowned for his unique personal level of practical and also a physical precision detail that also practically invites viewers throughout - and also to breathe in -what they're seeing and also watching on many big cinema screens.

Scott in question, can also plunge us as 'THE UNIQUE CINEMA AUDIENCE' - unlike the character featuring Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly and also Christopher Lloyd as Dr Emmett Brown featured in the 'BACK TO THE FUTURE' TRILOGY' produced by Steven Spielberg and also directed by Robert Zemeckis - into any 'TIMELINE' - from the 'DISTANT PAST' such as 'KINGDOM OF HEAVEN' {2005} featuring Orlando Bloom, Liam Neeson, Eva Green, Brendan Gleeson, Edward Norton and Jeremy Irons and also 'NAPOLEON' {2023} featuring Joaquin Phoenix, Vanessa Kirby and Rupert Everett as Sir Arthur Wellesley - 'Duke Of Wellington' - to the 'DISTANT FUTURE' such as 'BLADE RUNNER' {1982} featuring Harrison Ford as Rick Deckard and Rutger Hauer as Roy Batty and also 'THE MARTIAN' {2015} based on the best-selling novel by Andy Weir and also featuring Matt Damon.

'GLADIATOR' in question, also uniquely 'STANDS OUT' as 'ONE OF SIR RIDDER'S'S MOST IMMERSIVE SPECTACLES' which also conjuring up the might of ancient antiquity out of thin air {just imagine magician Paul Daniels as a wild willing wonderful wizard - who 'ONE AMAZING MAGICAL NIGHT' years before the arrival of a certain Harry Potter - conjures up a cunning plan from ''underneath'' your bed-sheets - and ends up 'trapping off' Mandy the munchkin - in the process - because after all that you simply don't have to be a wizard under any of the 'the bed sheets' - in question - because in his own words - 'IT'S MAGIC'!} and also that in 'GLADIATOR II' promises to continue in that same vein, for this is in fact a 'SEQUEL' to the 'ORIGINAL' that also really isn't afraid to simply get its unique hands dirty of superior craftsmanship - and that - ''IT SIMPLY DELIVERS'' - for an epic blockbuster movie as we approach the dark nights before the festive season approaches.

From the sweep of the cross-continental locations to the uniquely 'blood-soaked' interiors of the Colosseum, the glided decorations of the Emperor's' chambers (think and also imagine that its NUMBER 10 DOWNING STREET situated in the centre of London - where the current tenant happens to be Sir Keir Starmer the British 'PM' - who's also having an interview with a well-known journalist unaware that there are no freebies involved - well anyway 'NOT ON MY WATCH' - to the arcane lighting of the 'GLADIATORS' holding cells beneath the arena, that the movie in question also has fabulous special effects, a wonderful storyline, spectacular cinematography throughout, and also even a powerful music score from Harry Gregson Williams taking over the reins from Hans Zimmer, is uniquely all set in all its glory as well as the manner of a tangible psychicallity.

Interestingly, that as i write out and also prepare this review for your reading pleasure,that on Thursday September 20, 2024, in an exclusive interview with 'THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER' - the article of this was available on newstands - Friday September 21, 2024, - the following day - that Sir Riddius, in question, is already planning out 'GLADIATOR III' - now according to Sir Riddius that he's already had an idea for this - and that he's taken the inspiration from Francis Ford Coppola involving 'THE GODFATHER : PART II' {originally released in 1974 - and is about to celebrate its 50TH ANNIVERSARY' - also for the record Coppola in question had in fact previously directed both 'THE GODFATHER' [1972], and also 'THE GODFATHER : PART III [1990].

Now apparently, Sir Riddius in question, has stated on the record that 'GLADIATOR III' would in fact continue with the continuation adventures involving Lucius, providing that 'GLADIATOR II' reception at 'box offices' everywhere would be a success - WHICH IT ALREADY HAS - the film has already opened in Australia and also the United Kingdom - but will arrive in the U.S. on Friday November 22, 2024, just in time for the long Thanksgiving holiday - however Scott has already said that 'GLADIATOR III' in question would also explore the unique character's realisation that he has also tasked with a continuing reputation that he does not want - and that Scott later stated that 'GLADIATOR III' in question is in the 'early stages of development' and that this would be intended as 'his next project' - however when that is completed he will then turn his unique attention on a biopic about 'THE BEE GEES'.

As for 'MY OWN VERDICT' - Well, 'GLADIATOR II' - the film in question, its also a 'COLOSSUS OF AN EPIC MOVIE' that's also completely consuming, intense, frightening, and also quite disgusting in parts.

However, to be expected from Sir Riddius Scottius himself - there's also some uniquely and also extremely 'BLOOD AND GUTS EVERYWHERE' throughout - 'AS IT WOULD HAVE BEEN IN REAL LIFE' in the eternal City in Rome.

But also that 'BELIEVE YOU ME' - and also that this is in fact classed as 'REAL BIG SCREEN' stuff - as you would have also expected it to be - because that you simply have to see this - not only for the performances throughout, but also the special effects, the editing, and also the cinematography which are also outstanding - just for - 'THE FULL-ON, SUPER-CHARGED CINEMA EXPERIENCE'.

'ARE YOU NOT MERCIFUL' ! 'ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED' !

THEN TAKE A TRIP TO YOUR MOVIE THEATER/CINEMA - AND SEE THIS EPIC MASTERPIECE DIRECTED BY SIR RIDDIUS - BECAUSE AFTER YOU'VE SEEN THIS YOU'LL COME OUT DISGUISED AS KENNETH WILLIAMS WEARING A TOGA OUTFIT BY SIMPLY SHOUTING OUT MANY OBSCENITIES AND ALSO THINKING TO HIMSELF THAT THIS IN QUESTION WAS MORE THAN JUST A ''CAMP CARRY-ON MOVIE'' BY ENTERTAINING WITH A UNIQUE APPEARANCE BY JUSTIN WELBY THE FORMER ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY AS HIS GUEST - AND ALSO WHO APPARENTLY HAS BEEN A VERY NAUGHTY BAD BOY [and not just pulling more than his puds in the process] - AND ALSO TELLING JOKES SUCH AS - ''DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE HAPPY ROMAN! ? BECAUSE HE WAS 'GLAD HE ATE HER' - JUST BECAUSE HE'S TAKEN A STRANGE BLUE PILL KNOWN AS ''VIAGRIA'' - 'MATRON PUT THAT AWAY'! - AND ALSO UNAWARE THAT HE'S ABOUT TO REVEAL MORE THAN JUST THE EXTREMELY FULL-LENGTH PLEASURES IN LIFE OF MORE THAN JUST HIS CROWN JEWELS - ON SHOW - JUST TO GET REWARDED AND ALSO BE NOTICED BY MORE THAN JUST HIS CHUMS AND ALSO THAT YOU WILL SEE THIS LONG AWAITED-FOLLOW UP TO THE ORIGINAL - IN MOVIE THEATERIUS/CINEMARIUS - IN THIS WORLD... OR THE NEXT.

AND NOW - THE END IS HERE - BECAUSE THE WAIT IS FINALLY OVER - SIMPLY BECAUSE IT'S FINALLY ARRIVED !

FOR THIS IS MORE THAT JUST AN EPIC MASTERPIECE WHICH BY THE WAY WE HAVE BEEN WAITING AT LEAST 24 YEARS TO WITNESS THIS SECOND INSTALMENT ON THE BIG SCREEN.

'GLADIATOR II' IN QUESTION - IS IN FACT - THE MOVIE EVENT OF 2024 - BUT ALSO THAT THIS IS IN FACT CLASSED AS - 'THE TEN COMMANDMENTS' - ON STEROIDS ! AND ALSO THAT IF THE FIRST INSTALMENT WAS CONSIDERED AS A THREE COURSE MEAL - THEN THIS ONE FEELS MORE LIKE A ''FULL BUFFET'' - 'FIT FOR A UNIQUE GLADIATOR' - WITH ALSO THE ADDED STRENGTH AND HONOUR OF AN EPIC MONUMENTAL MASTERPIECE !

FOR THIS IS 'ONE THOSE MOST MODERN EPIC SEQUELS - TO THE ORIGINAL MOVIE' - THAT YOU SIMPLY HAVE TO SEE - 'BEFORE YOU DIE' - AND THAT WE WILL ALWAYS SALUTE YOU ! - FOR DOING THIS AS EVER !

ALL HAIL SIR RIDDIUS - KING OF THE EPIC MOVIES AND ALSO THE GREATEST FILM DIRECTORIUS IN THE WORLD SINCE CECIL B de MILLIUS.

GO FORTH UPON MY SIGNAL - AND UNLEASH YOURSELF - AND LET THE GAMES BEGIN !

DON'T MISS IT !

Davidius Michaelius Gerardius Mitchellius