Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, and more take over the arena in epic first “Gladiator II” trailer
A rebellion will rise Nov. 22.
Tie those togas, lace up those sandals, and get in the chariot, loser — we're going back to the arena.
The first trailer for Ridley Scott's long-awaited sequel Gladiator II is providing fans the first battle-heavy glimpse at what's in store in the historical epic, which takes place in the 20-plus years since the events of the Russell Crowe-led 2000 original.
It introduces Paul Mescal's grown-up Lucius, nephew of the late Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix) and the son of Lucilla (once again played by Connie Nielsen). After the events of the first film, he was sent by his mother to live on the northern coast of Africa to shield him from the corruption and violence of Rome. He grew up there, but as an adult, he finds himself thrust back into Roman life — and the arena — when forces led by General Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal) invade his home in Numidia and eventually take him captive.
Paramount
Paul Mescal as Lucius in 'Gladiator II'Related: Everything we know about Gladiator II so far
The trailer also introduces Denzel Washington's Macrinus, a very wealthy arms dealer who uses gladiators for sport, as well as the film's two main antagonists: megalomaniacal twin emperors Caracalla (Fred Hechinger) and Geta (Joseph Quinn).
Legacy cast member Derek Jacobi is also reprising his role as Gracchus. May Calamawy (Moon Knight, Ramy), Lior Raz (Operation Finale), Peter Mensah (Avatar), Matt Lucas (Wonka, Bridesmaids), and more round out the cast.
Scott returns once more as director, and several other artists who brought the original Gladiator to life are returning to his sequel, as well. This includes cinematographer John Mathieson, production designer Arthur Max, and costume designer Janty Yates. All the Money in the World and Napoleon scribe David Scarpa penned the screenplay, with a story by Scarpa and Peter Craig.
Paramount
Paul Mescal as Lucius and Pedro Pascal as Marcus Acacius in 'Gladiator II'Related: First footage of Gladiator II reveals Paul Mescal's Lucius in bloody baboon battle
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Gladiator II comes charging into theaters Nov. 22. Watch the trailer above.
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