Gladiator II (2024) the film centers on Lucius Verus Aurelius, portrayed by Paul Mescal, the son of Lucilla and Maximus. Living under the alias “Hanno” in Numidia, Lucius’s life is upended when Roman forces, led by General Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal), invade his homeland. The assault results in the death of his wife, Arishat, and his subsequent enslavement. Transported back to Rome, Lucius is thrust into the brutal world of gladiatorial combat in the Colosseum.

Rome is now under the erratic rule of twin emperors, Geta (Joseph Quinn) and Caracalla (Fred Hechinger). Within this volatile political landscape, Lucius’s mother, Lucilla (Connie Nielsen), and General Acacius conspire to overthrow the emperors and restore the republic. As Lucius rises through the gladiatorial ranks, he discovers his true parentage and grapples with his identity and destiny. Denzel Washington delivers a compelling performance as Macrinus, a former slave turned influential power broker, whose machinations add depth to the unfolding drama.