Tonight, The Version is in London’s Leicester Square as it transforms into ancient Rome as the highly anticipated Gladiator II premieres, drawing crowds of excited fans and a star-studded roster to London’s iconic cinema hub. The sequel to the 2000 epic has been one of the most talked-about releases of the year, promising to transport audiences back into the world of swords, sandals, and the Coliseum with new, thrilling battles and political intrigue.

Directed by Ridley Scott, who returns to helm the story two decades after the original, Gladiator II explores the aftermath of the fall of Commodus and follows Lucius, the young boy from the original film, now grown and facing his own challenges within the empire. Paul Mescal, who skyrocketed to fame in Normal People, takes on the role of Lucius, marking his biggest film role yet. Mescal arrived on the red carpet tonight in a sleek, modern suit with subtle Roman-themed accents, a nod to the epic character he portrays.

The premiere attracted Hollywood royalty and a lineup of new stars, including the likes of Denzel Washington, who plays a complex new character. Washington, a fresh addition to the Gladiator universe, expressed excitement about working with Scott and Mescal, describing the role as “one of the most intense and challenging of my career.” Accompanying them was the film’s other breakout star, Connie Nielsen, reprising her role as Lucilla, who looked resplendent on the red carpet as she greeted cheering fans.

Tonight’s premiere included a visually stunning display, with Leicester Square adorned with towering Roman pillars, gladiator-inspired statues, and ambient fire pits to mirror the look and feel of ancient Rome. The red carpet itself was reimagined as a Roman road, complete with subtle nods to the grandeur of the Coliseum.

Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington and even The King were present at the regal event.

Adding to the electric atmosphere were some of the original film’s crew, as well as surprise appearances by other stars who came to celebrate Scott’s latest work. Crowds also went wild as Russell Crowe, the original film’s Maximus, made a surprise appearance to support the franchise that defined his career. Though his character is not set to return, Crowe praised the new cast and crew for keeping the story alive, telling fans, “The spirit of Gladiator lives on stronger than ever.”

As the stars settle in to watch the film, Gladiator II is already generating strong reactions, with early reviewers calling it “gritty, emotional, and as grand as its predecessor.” Fans, filmmakers, and critics alike are eager to see if the sequel will leave a lasting impact on audiences just as the original did. With Scott’s vision and a formidable cast, Gladiator II is set to reignite the cinematic legacy, bringing both honor and spectacle back to the Coliseum for a new generation.