The wait is finally over for fans of 'Gladiator'. After 24 years, the highly anticipated sequel, Gladiator II, is hitting theaters in Bangladesh on Friday — days before its U.S. release on November 22.
The original Gladiator, released in 2000, became a worldwide sensation, cementing its place as a Hollywood classic. Its mix of action, drama, and unforgettable performances captivated audiences globally. Now, the story continues, much to the excitement of fans.
Gladiator II will screen at Star Cineplex branches across Bangladesh, making it one of the first countries to premiere the film, ahead of its U.S. debut. This exclusive release was confirmed by the multiplex to The Daily Star.
The trailer, which dropped in July, set the stage for the sequel with a thrilling three-minute preview. One of the standout moments includes an intense battle involving a rhino, which has quickly become a talking point among fans.
The sequel picks up several years after the events of the first film, following an adult Lucius. New faces join the cast, with Paul Mescal starring as Lucius, Pedro Pascal as General Acasius, and Denzel Washington playing Macrinus. Ridley Scott returns as director, but Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix will not reprise their roles.
With an estimated budget of $310 million, Gladiator II is poised to follow in the footsteps of its predecessor, which earned over $465 million globally and won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
For now, Bangladeshi audiences can enjoy this cinematic epic ahead of the rest of the world.
