Why ‘Gladiator’ is a great movie and how ‘Gladiator 2’ turned out

Ridley Scott’s 'Gladiator' is one of those films that seem straightforward at first glance. A massive box office success, five Academy Awards (including Best Picture), and a well-earned status as a fan favorite even decades later. But what many forget is that Gladiator was a risky project from the start—no one expected Scott to not only create a hit but also redefine the historical epic genre for a new era. Even today, some critics argue that its only real achievement lies in its groundbreaking visual effects.

However, 'Gladiator' is far more profound than it’s often given credit for. Beneath its grand spectacle lie echoes of ancient philosophy, reflections on American politics, and even visual nods to the aesthetic of Leni Riefenstahl. In this video essay, we explore how 'Gladiator' revitalized an entire genre, why it remains just as relevant today, and what we can expect from its long-awaited sequel.

Timestamps:
00:00 - What This Video Essay Is About
01:23 - Return to the Colosseum
07:18 - Bread and Circuses
11:53 - Thoughts on the Empire