How long is Gladiator 2 and the extended version? Runtime details explored

Gladiator 2, the sequel to the 2000 Oscar-winning classic Gladiator, hit theaters in the United States on November 22, 2024, following its premiere in Sydney, Australia, on October 30, 2024. Directed by Ridley Scott, this epic historical action film runs for 148 minutes, just under two and a half hours.

While this film is shorter than the original Gladiator, Scott revealed that an early cut lasted 220 minutes, or nearly four hours. Although this extended version remains unreleased, fans can expect a longer director's cut in the future.

Gladiator 2 begins 16 years after the first film. The grandson of Marcus Aurelius, Lucius Verus Aurelius, seeks revenge on those who destroyed his family. After being captured by the Roman army, Lucius becomes a gladiator. The sequel offers plenty of drama and action, featuring Colosseum battles and Roman Empire political conspiracies.

With a 7.1 IMDb rating out of 10, Gladiator 2 has a large cast that includes Paul Mescal as Lucius, Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, and Connie Nielsen.

The official synopsis of the movie reads:

"After his home is conquered by the tyrannical emperors who now lead Rome, Lucius is forced to enter the Colosseum and must look to his past to find strength to return the glory of Rome to its people."

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Runtime details of Gladiator 2

Gladiator 2 has a theatrical runtime of 148 minutes, shorter than the original's 155 minutes. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Ridley Scott revealed that the film's first cut was 220 minutes long. Scott and animator Gianluigi Toccafondo shortened the story for theaters.

Even though it was cut down, the director hinted that, like his other films, an extended version might come out later. If it ever comes out, the extended cut might be appealing to fans who like complex stories and immersive scenes.

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Plot of Gladiator's sequel

Set 16 years after the events of the first movie, Gladiator 2 introduces Lucius Verus Aurelius, the grandson of Marcus Aurelius. Living under the alias “Hanno,” Lucius hides from the political dangers of Rome in Numidia.

However, his life is upended when General Acacius’s Roman army invades, killing his wife and enslaving him. Forced into the world of gladiatorial combat, Lucius vows to avenge his family and confront the corrupt twin emperors, Geta and Caracalla.

In Rome, Lucius gains recognition for his fierce battles, echoing the legendary Maximus. As political conspiracies unfold, he learns about his heritage, his connection to Maximus, and his destiny as a leader who could restore hope to the empire. The movie blends personal vengeance with broader themes of rebellion and justice, culminating in a confrontation in the Colosseum.

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Cast of Gladiator 2

The movie boasts a stellar cast that brings ancient Rome to life:

• Paul Mescal as Lucius Verus Aurelius: The protagonist seeking justice for his family.
• Pedro Pascal as General Acacius: The Roman general responsible for Lucius’s enslavement.
• Denzel Washington as Macrinus: A former slave who becomes a key player in Rome’s power struggles.
• Connie Nielsen as Lucilla: Lucius’s mother and a central figure in the story’s emotional depth.
• Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger as Emperors Geta and Caracalla: The corrupt rulers of Rome.
• Derek Jacobi as Senator Gracchus: Reprising his role from the original film.
• Lior Raz as Ravi: A gladiator doctor and ally to Lucius.

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Interested viewers can catch Gladiator 2, which is currently running in theaters.