Gladiator II offers many pleasures, including Paul Mescal’s energetic portrayal of Lucius, a gladiator determined to conquer Rome. A steadfast general regrets sacrificing his morals for ambition. Connie Nielsen reprises her role as Lucilla, Marcus Aurelius’ daughter, dismayed by the current emperors’ betrayal of her father’s ideals. Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger play the inept brother emperors. While Gladiator II largely rehashes its predecessor, the cast is captivating, with Denzel, as the scheming Macrinus, truly standing out. His performance blends Shakespearean drama with vaudeville flair, creating an elegant and kitschy spectacle. His opening line, “What’s your native language? I speak them all,” instantly commands attention.
Gladiator II is enjoyable even when Denzel isn’t onscreen, but his presence elevates it significantly. His performance is both precise and effortless, showcasing the actor’s ability to have fun and self-deprecate. His portrayal of Macrinus expertly combines gravitas and humor, demonstrating how an actor can dominate a film without overshadowing others.
Calling Denzel one of our greatest living actors feels reductive, suggesting predictability. He has consistently delivered exceptional performances in films like Spike Lee’s [Film Title Missing], Joel Coen’s Macbeth, Training Day, and Norman Jewison’s The Hurricane. However, his range extends beyond serious roles; he displays remarkable lightness and versatility. In Gladiator II, he showcases both his commanding presence and a playful agility. Macrinus, while unlike his previous roles, echoes the breezy charm of his performances in films like Carl Franklin’s Out of Time (2003) and Devil in a Blue Dress (1995), or Mira Nair’s Mississippi Masala (1991). He transcends his reputation, embracing the role with joy and engaging the audience.
Denzel’s commanding presence on screen is undeniable—his powerful smile, silver hair, and regal movements are captivating. His delivery of lines like, “Rage pours out of you like milk—from a whore’s tit. You’ll be quite the fighter!” is wonderfully over-the-top. His faux modesty when questioned about political aspirations, followed by his dramatic, “That, my friend, is politicssssssss!,” is both intense and hilarious.
Denzel’s capacity for joy is remarkable, as illustrated by his appearance on Letterman in 2008. He stayed to meet Don Rickles, laughing enthusiastically at Rickles’ roast of Letterman. This reveals a playful side that complements his dedication to his craft. In Gladiator II, he fully embodies Macrinus’ ambition with playful decadence.