Gladiator II is Denzel Washington's second sequel and first appearance in an existing franchise, and it may define his career for the next 10 years.

Gladiator II is Ridley Scott’s best film since The Martian. A big, bloody and bad ass action spectacle that builds upon the legacy of the original. The film showcases beautiful set pieces and a lot of epic battles. Paul Mescal shines. Denzel Washington chews up the scenery quite a bit here and looks like he is having the time of his life here.

GLADIATOR II works best as an acting showcase for Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, & Joseph Quinn. It's largely uneven & lacks the emotional punch of the first film. However, Ridley Scott's direction is unhinged, framing this as an epic Roman opera. The visuals get the job done. pic.twitter.com/R0xRDFTuwX

"GLADIATOR II is indeed the REAL DEAL! An epic sequel worthy of its Oscar-winning predecessor – great action, amazing visual effects, stellar performances across the board (esp. PAUL MESCAL & DENZEL WASHINGTON)! A return to form for director RIDLEY SCOTT! I was ENTERTAINED!" is the verdict of journalist Scott Mantz .

With Denzel Washington and a star-studded ensemble, Ridley Scott's 'Gladiator II' appears set to reestablish the franchise's legacy online.

Gladiator II has been in the works for years, and the first reactions suggest that it's everything fans wanted it to be.

Gladiator 2's first reaction reviews call Sir Ridley Scott's epic sequel starring Paul Mescal "one of the best films of all time" and predict a third Oscar for Denzel Washington.

After the special screening of Gladiator II, social media was flooded with praise for Ridley Scott's long-awaited sequel. Critics lauded the film for its epic scope, visual impact, and outstanding performances.