Joseph Quinn Describes Gladiator Sequel Filming As “A Little Scary” And “Bonkers”

Despite the 21st century backdrop, our journey transports us to the pinnacle of Imperial Rome. It takes us to the Eternal City, where entertainment was synonymous with fire and blood. In addition, later this year, the Colosseum will serve as the setting for the eagerly awaited premiere of Gladiator sequel on the big screen.

The Crazy Creation Process of Gladiator 2 Sequel

The much-anticipated follow-up to Ridley Scott’s monumental film, Gladiator, aims to honor the legacy of Maximus (portrayed by Russell Crowe) — a Roman general entangled in tragedy by Commodus (played by Joaquin Phoenix) during a coup that dethrones Commodus’ father, Caesar Marcus Aurelius. Joseph Quinn takes on the role of Roman Emperor Caracalla, following in the footsteps of Phoenix’s portrayal of Commodus. Describing the endeavor as “a little scary,” the actor reflects on the experience of stepping into the sequel of such an iconic epic.

During an interview with Entertainment Weekly regarding the upcoming film, Quinn disclosed that the entire cast and crew were keenly aware of the weight of the project, with the shadow of the original film looming large over the set. “We all understood the significance of the first film,” Quinn revealed. “So many people hold it in high regard. Approaching it again felt a bit daunting.” Teaser footage shown at CinemaCon depicted Quinn’s character delivering the iconic thumbs-down gesture, reminiscent of those portrayed by Phoenix’s Commodus in the original film. When asked if he drew inspiration from Phoenix’s performance, Quinn responded, “Honestly, I hardly even considered that.”

A Slow Creation Process for the New Movie

Reflecting on his initial experience on set and encountering the colossal scale of the Colosseum constructed for the film, Quinn reminisces, “It’s mind-blowing, it’s incredible.” He elaborates, “Working on a film of this magnitude really shifts your perspective. Witnessing the recreation of ancient Rome in Malta is truly awe-insgladiatorpiring.” Connie Nielsen, who portrayed Lucilla in the original Gladiator film, provided a sense of reassurance to the younger cast members, according to Quinn. He recalls Nielsen’s presence on set, remarking, “Having her there was like having a guiding light in the Colosseum. I was quite anxious, and she brought a sense of calmness. She’s an incredible woman.”

Gladiator 2 sequel is set to unleash its gladiators onto the big screen on November 22. The film marks the return of Ridley Scott as director and introduces Denzel Washington to the cast, alongside Connie Nielsen and Derek Jacobi reprising their roles as Lucilla and Senator Gracchus, respectively. Paul Mescal will portray Lucius Verus, the nephew of the villainous Commodus and the son of Lucilla. His character poses the greatest threat to the reign of Quinn’s Caracalla.

Gladiator sequel makes its official debut in theaters on Friday, November 22, 2024.

Featured Image Via Universal Pictures