A captivating display of fashion artistry is one way to describe the “Gladiator 2” LA Premiere, which had some of the who-is-who in the entertainment world showing off their fashion creativity. From Lewis Hamilton and James Charles to Connie Nelson, there was more than enough fashion statement to feed the eyes. Even the legendary Denzel Washington didn’t disappoint.
After months of anticipation, the November 18 premiere of this blockbuster movie took place in Los Angeles. As expected, it didn’t disappoint. It was a carnival of mind-blowing and classy outfits from start to finish. Let’s take a look at the high-profile attendees and how they slayed during the event.
For most of the guests, the urge to dress up in Gladiator-inspired attires was simply irresistible. But thank goodness they did. The men absolutely killed it. For example, Lewis Hamilton came in an armless suited vest similar to the arm-revealing look of the Romans. James Charles put on a golden breastplate-style outfit similar to those of Roman soldiers.
Interestingly too, many of the female stars put on Greek goddess-inspired dresses. These included gowns with flowing skirts. A notable example was Connie Nelson in her chic black gown that had a floor-length sheer skirt. Chrishell Stause turned head with her revealing red two-piece gown.
Other stars included Irish actor, Paul Mescal who came in looking gentle and graceful in a plain black suit. The red carpet was also blessed by one of the biggest stars of the movie—Denzel Washington. The 69-year-old actor put on a simple all-black suit as he and his wife, Pauletta put on their usual big smiles. Other celebrities in attendance included Brittany Broski, Carmella Rose, Asia Monet, Alexis Ren, and Manila Luzon.
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Where Is the “Gladiator 2” Premiere?
The “Gladiator 2” Premiere was held at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles. The movie is set to hit the screens on November 22, 2024. The much-awaited movie is a sequel to the blockbuster “Gladiator,” which was released in 2000 and starred Hollywood darling Russell Crowe.
Russell Crowe showed up for the second one, playing Maximus while Joaquin Phoenix was Commodus. Newcomers include Paul Mescal who played the character, Lucius, a slave who under the guidance of his ambitious handler became a gladiator. The respected veteran, Denzel Washington played the handler, Macrinus.
The movie is set in ancient Rome after Maximus triumphed over Commodus in the arena and carved his name in the history books. After some years, his nephew, Lucius, is in captivity and has to prove himself in the Colosseum. Lucius is also seeking revenge for the death of his wife.
The movie is rated R as a result of its graphic images and adult language. Other casts include Pedro Pascal as Marcus Acacius, who must watch his back after he killed Lucius’ wife. There’s also Connie Nelson as Lucilla, Fred Hechinger as Emperor Caracalla, Derek Jacobi as Gracchus, Joseph Quinn as Emperor Geta, and Rory McCann as Tegula. If interested, you can learn more about the release date, casts.
The movie is set to become a box office hit, given the high anticipation it has attracted from even beyond the United States. Analysts are projecting revenue of up to $80 million in the domestic market. This is despite widespread concerns that it might lose some attention to another promising movie, “Wicked,” which is set for release on the same day.
Where in Africa Was Gladiator Filmed?
There aren’t many movies that give us an almost perfect representation of ancient Rome like “Gladiator.” So, little wonder the movie did so well back in 2000. The first “Gladiator” movie ended up grossing over $465 million at the box office. The popular Hollywood movie also bagged numerous high-profile awards, including five Academy Awards.
One of the factors that provide quality depictions is location. So, with the sequel set just 16 years after the former, the directors knew just what kind of place could provide a realistic movie. Among the spots chosen was a location in Africa. Director Ridley Scott wasn’t ready to take chances, so, he ran back to some of the locations that served him 24 years ago.
These locations were Fort Ricasoli in Malta and Devil’s Dyke, England. But the one which many people talked about was the location in Africa. Northern Africa to be more precise: the Ouarzazate in Morocco. This is an amphitheater made of wood, where he filmed Mescal’s fight with a baboon.
The Ouarzazate sits on a plateau in the southern regions of the Atlas mountains. Around it are thick, sandy landscapes that continue into the Sahara Desert.
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Why Is Russell Crowe Uncomfortable With Gladiator 2
Although “Gladiator 2” has enjoyed so many positive reviews, a number of notable voices haven’t liked it. One of them is movie critic, Patrick Smith and at the initial stage, actor Russell Crowe. Smith believes that it was rushed and poorly acted.
For Russell Crowe, he didn’t feel very at home with the idea of a sequel when he first heard about the plan. Speaking with a podcast host in June 2024, he stated that he felt “slightly uncomfortable” with the idea.
“A couple of things that I’ve heard. I’m like, ‘No, no, no, that’s not in the moral journey of that particular character,” he explained. Although Crowe might not hold these views anymore, Smith believes that his initial reaction was something.
According to Smith, the movie deviates from the first one in a number of disturbing ways. One of which is that it paints Crowe’s Maximus as a little bit of a villain when it presents Lucius as the result of his extra-marital affair with Lucilla, who was played by Connie Nelson.
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