Gladiator II: A Bigger, Messier Sequel with High Stakes for Lucius
In Ridley Scott's Gladiator II, Lucius Verus (Paul Mescal) seeks revenge for his wife's death by confronting General Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal) in the Colosseum. Acacius, married to Lucius' mother Lucilla, refuses to fight, but is killed by the twin Emperors' orders. Lucius learns of a plot involving his mother and Acacius to overthrow the Empire, which Macrinus (Denzel Washington) exploits to gain power. After Lucilla's execution, Lucius incites a gladiator revolt, defeats Macrinus, and unites opposing armies to restore peace. The film concludes with Lucius honoring his parents' legacy.