Ridley Scott has revealed the intriguing backstory behind the scrapping of Steven Spielberg’s original script for Gladiator II. Following the runaway success of Gladiator in 2000, a follow-up idea simmered for over twenty years before it began to take shape. The forthcoming Gladiator II, set for release in 2024, diverges significantly from an earlier draft penned by musician Nick Cave, featuring prominent performances from Paul Mescal and Denzel Washington under the helm of Scott himself.
In a candid discussion with The New York Times, Scott elucidates how Cave’s version portrayed Russell Crowe’s Maximus as “an instrument of the Roman gods dispatched against Jesus Christ.” Despite his initial enthusiasm, Scott grappled with uncertainties about the narrative direction. Notably, Spielberg, who had previously collaborated on the original film, advised against continuing with Cave’s draft, further influencing Scott’s decision to abandon it.
“It got too grand. Nick is very high theater, and Steven Spielberg said, ‘Nah.’ I wasn’t confident about what we had actually put together, so I just let it go.”
What This Means For Gladiator II
A Fortunate Departure from Nick Cave’s Vision
The original concept crafted by Cave intended to steer the sequel into the realms of myth and fantasy, a significant departure from the historical epic that defined its predecessor. Even if Crowe were to resurrect his role as Maximus, the essence of the character would have been lost amidst a fantasy-laden narrative, rendering it virtually unrecognizable. Criticism of the upcoming Gladiator II for echoing the original’s themes might be overwhelming, but it would pale in comparison to the backlash had Cave’s vision been realized.
A Savior in Spielberg
Spielberg’s timely intervention has proven pivotal, averting a potentially disastrous sequel that could have veered the Gladiator legacy off course. While Scott himself has made narrative missteps with franchises like Alien, Spielberg’s guidance ensured that the core spirit of Gladiator remained intact. The 2024 iteration appears to be a commendable continuation of the tale that first captivated audiences, deftly navigating the treacherous waters of cinematic sequel-making.
Moreover, the early reviews for Gladiator II have been encouraging, particularly lauding Washington’s portrayal. This sequel arrives amidst a fascinating cinematic landscape, confronting Wicked at the box office, brewing a potential cultural phenomenon akin to the “Barbenheimer” effect. The narrative trajectory focusing on Lucius Verus, Maximus’ son, promises broader appeal compared to any resurrection plot involving Maximus in a confrontation with Jesus.
In essence, the decision to steer away from Cave’s fantastical elements has not only salvaged the sequel but has also crafted a worthy chapter in Scott’s saga. The anticipation surrounding this cinematic endeavor reflects an eagerness for a continuation that respects its predecessor while charting a distinctly new path.
