Ridley Scott’s Gladiator captivated audiences in 2000 with its epic tale of revenge, respect, and the brutal grandeur of Ancient Rome. Now, over two decades later, the much-anticipated sequel, Gladiator II, is set to continue the story in ways no one expected.

From a controversial screenplay draft involving Maximus’ immortality to a surprising casting choice in Paul Mescal, the journey to this sequel has been anything but ordinary.

In this article, we delve into the fascinating behind-the-scenes details of Gladiator II, including the audacious ideas, transformations, casting surprises, and historical debates that have shaped this bold new chapter. Get ready to discover what makes this sequel a true spectacle—both on and off the screen.

1. Atypical Audition of Paul Mescal

The Irish actor was chosen by Ridley Scott for the role of the new gladiator after a chat on Zoom.

2. Candidates for the Role of Lucius Verus

Mescal was preferred over Timothée Chalamet, Miles Teller, Austin Butler, and Richard Madden for the role.

3. Handsome as Brando

The numerous shirtless scenes and visible biceps of Paul Mescal in the theatrical drama A Streetcar Named Desire, staged in London's West End, where the star inherited the legendary role of Marlon Brando, impressed Paramount executives Daria Cercek and Michael Ireland, who decided to give him the lead role.

4. Mescal's Incredible Transformation

To prepare for the role, the actor followed a diet based on sweet potatoes and ground meat, gaining eight kilograms of muscle. He also revisited the Roman history he had studied in school and dedicated himself to practicing combat choreographies, horse training, and sword techniques. In practice, he trained intensely for 40 minutes to an hour and a half, six days a week, to become a true fighter from Ancient Rome.

5. Was Emperor Macrinus Really Black?

Oscar winner Denzel Washington portrays the tyrant Macrinus. The choice sparked controversies among historians and Roman history enthusiasts. Macrinus, a Roman emperor of Algerian origin, had a darker complexion compared to the European standards of the time, reflecting the ethnic diversity of the Roman Empire.

6. Quinn Was Not Inspired by Joaquin Phoenix

The Stranger Things 4 star embodies the sadistic brother of Caracalla. Although his emperor ideally picks up the legacy of Joaquin Phoenix's iconic Commodus, English actor Joseph Quinn did not draw inspiration from him. Quinn's references were Philip Seymour Hoffman in Mission: Impossible III and Gary Oldman in The Fifth Element.

7. Physical Replica of the Colosseum

The majestic Roman Colosseum was reconstructed for the occasion by trusted production designer Arthur Max. Instead of using CGI, an authentic replica was created in Malta at full scale, nine meters tall (three more than the original film) to allow the passage of a ship.

8. Sharks and Rhinoceroses in the Arena

In Gladiator II, Paul Mescal fights against a rhinoceros (created in radio-controlled 3D printing). While rare, rhinoceroses were known in ancient Rome, imported along with other exotic animals like lions, elephants, bears, and crocodiles. Historically, the presence of sharks in the Colosseum, depicted in the film, was highly unlikely.