The first reactions to Gladiator 2 – one of the most anticipated films of the year – are in and they are overwhelmingly positive. Lead actor Paul Mescal, who plays Lucius, Lucilla’s son in the film, opened the screening in Los Angeles, which was attended by a select few critics. Most of them gave positive reviews of the film and predicted that it would do very well during awards season – with special mention for Denzel Washington’s supporting role. (Also Read: Gladiator II Trailer: Paul Mescal Takes on Pedro Pascal in Ridley Scott’s Action-Packed Sequel. Watch)

Gladiator 2 early reactions

A critic from Offscreen Central wrote: “GLADIATOR 2 is an absolute triumph. Ridley Scott puts you in the action of the arena where legacy and honor are at stake, and the blood, fights and biceps for something so deliciously cinematic and Machiavellian.” Pedro Pascal, Paul Mescal and Joseph Quinn certified movie stars.”

A critic from The Wrap wrote: “Rest easy, Romans. #Gladiator2 is the kind of large-scale cinematic excellence that only Ridley Scott can achieve. Everything about it just works. Big #Maverick excels in his ability to evoke the past while adding something new. Bold, powerful filmmaking from a legendary talent.”

“GLADIATOR II was huge! Paul Mescal was charismatic and Denzel Washington was an entertaining villain. The arena games were imaginatively brutal! Baboons, sharks, rhinos, they were amazing! Epic and ruthless. Ridley Scott has done it again,” said another critic who attended the screening.

Denzel Washington is back

Many cited Denzel Washington’s performance as one of the film’s strengths and predicted an Oscar win for him. Matt Ramos wrote: “Gladiator II is not only arguably the best film of the year, but one of the best of all time. It is one of those films that will reignite your love for cinema. It exceeds all expectations, the performances are outstanding (Denzel just secured another Oscar).”

Variety’s Clayton Davis said, “Ridley Scott’s best directorial effort since Black Hawk Down.” I found Paul Mescal’s work as Lucius to be one of the film’s most honest surprises. This is Denzel Washington having the time of his life in one of his best roles yet. Sound, visuals, costumes, you name it, this film definitely has it all.

Gladiator 2 releases in India on November 15th.