Director Ridley Scott has recently shed light on the highly anticipated sequel to his 2000 epic, Gladiator. In an exclusive interview, Scott revealed that the film will kick off with what he describes as “the biggest action sequence I’ve ever done.”
At 86 years old, Scott’s ambitious vision for Gladiator 2 aims to surpass even the grand scale of his previous works, including Napoleon.
Scott emphasized the advancements in technology since the original Gladiator was released, noting how modern tools have revolutionized filmmaking. “Computerization and AI — you have to embrace it,” Scott explained. The director highlighted how cutting-edge technology now allows for unprecedented levels of detail and realism in his scenes.
The new film will feature a groundbreaking action sequence involving a highly realistic CGI rhino. Scott elaborated, “I can have a computer read every molecule and wrinkle on a rhino and then cut it on a thick piece of plastic, absolutely as a rhino’s body, which is then tailored to a skeleton shape.”
This innovation has led to the creation of a two-ton rhino capable of remarkable movements, such as spinning on the spot and snarling, enhancing the film’s dramatic flair.
Meanwhile, Paul Mescal, who stars in the sequel, has expressed mixed feelings about his rising fame. In a recent conversation with The Times, the Normal People actor voiced concerns about the impact of his new role. “I don’t know what the difference will be. Maybe that’s naive?” Mescal said.
He admitted that if the fame became overwhelming, he might need to take a step back. “I’d get profoundly depressed if that’s so and hope it isn’t true,” he added. Mescal’s reflections underscore the personal challenges that come with high-profile roles.
As anticipation builds for Gladiator 2, both Scott’s innovative approach and Mescal’s candid thoughts provide a glimpse into the next chapter of this legendary saga.