Gladiator 2: a casting with stars of the first opus and a revelation of Stranger Things

2023-04-30 02:54:21

The highly anticipated sequel to Gladiator continues to grow from an already impressive cast. According to the always well-informed specialized site DeadlineConnie Nielsen, Lucilla, the sister of Emperor Commodus in the first opus has reached an agreement to return to the cast, while Joseph Quinn, noted for his role of Eddie Munson in “Stranger Things” is in negotiations to play the Emperor Caracalla in the currently untitled Paramount film.

They join Paul Mescal, who will play Lucius, the son of Lucilla, known in “Normal People”, but also the mainstays of Hollywood Barry Keoghan and Denzel Washington. And of course it’s the great Ridley Scott who returns to direct.

The new film is the sequel to the 2000 blockbuster ‘Gladiator,’ which grossed over $460 million at the worldwide box office and was nominated for 12 Oscars, five of which were won, including the one of the best movie. Just that.

A sequel without Russell Crowe

Scheduled for a theatrical release in November 2024, “Gladiator 2” will be without Russell Crowe, eternal Maximus. Hopefully fans aren’t too disappointed by the absence of the iconic actor from what will become a franchise. This new opus will focus on the fate of Lucius, the son of Lucilla and nephew of Commodus (played by Joaquin Phoenix in the first Gladiator). Lucius was central to the ending scenes of the first film.

Given that many characters were killed off in the first film and it’s been over 20 years since its release, there weren’t many familiar faces to choose from among the old cast members who would return for this sequel. . That’s why it was so important to Ridley Scott and the studio that Connie Nielsen’s character return for this sequel.

It is his character who ensures the “historical” transition in a way. Connie Nielsen isn’t just Maximus’ main “love” interest in the first movie, she’s also the mother of Lucius, who is now the main character in this new movie, and that mother-son relationship should play a big role. in the film’s story arc. A scenario that will be provided by David Scarpa, already screenwriter of “Napoleon » by Ridley Scott, was chosen to write the sequel.

Another star of the first film in contact to resign: Djimon Hounsou who embodied the brave Juba. Another good news for a 5 star cast.