Paul Mescal will star in Gladiator 2 as Lucius. In recent interviews, he opens up about this opportunity and also reveals that he has no desire for fame, but a strong commitment to the craft of acting.
Paul Mescal, known for his roles in 'Normal People' and 'Aftersun', has been cast in the lead role of Lucius Verus in Gladiator 2.
This sequel will shift the focus to Lucius and continue his story after the original movie released in 2000. Directed again by Ridley Scott, the film also stars Joseph Quinn, Connie Nielsen and Denzel Washington. Notably, Russell Crowe, who portrayed Maximus Decimus Meridius in the original, is not part of the new film.
Mescal, who is set to take on the role of Lucius, the son of Lucilla and nephew of Commodus – the main antagonist played by Joaquin Phoenix in the 2000 original – has opened up about his fears for the upcoming sequel.
Gladiator 2: Mescal Was "Too Afraid" Of Pedro Pascal And Fears To Get "Profoundly Depressed"
In an interview with Esquire UK, Mescal shared his initial shyness about approaching Pedro Pascal, who also joins the cast in a mystery role. He expressed his excitement about working with Pascal: "I was too afraid to go up to him. He came up and just seemed so genuine; I'm really looking forward to hanging out with him."
He then opened up about his concerns about the film in an interview with The Times UK. With the first film earning star Russell Crowe a Best Actor Oscar, expectations are high for Gladiator 2. When it comes to Mescal's level of fame and how he will handle the situation of being in the spotlight, he explained:
"I don't know what the difference will be. Maybe that’s naive? Is it just that more people will stop you in the street? I’d get profoundly depressed if that’s so and hope it isn’t true. I’ll have an answer next year, but if [the film] impacts my life in that way, I’ll be in a bad spot. I’d have to move on and do an obtuse play nobody wants to see."
He is certainly not the classic celebrity who cares too much about his online presence. Mescal emphasized his commitment to the craft of acting over fame and stressed the importance of artistic integrity in the industry:
"Acting should never be reduced to numbers of Instagram followers. I’m not being snobby, but there are two concurrent industries. One that works with a lack of care and artistic integrity. Go nuts, make stuff with Instagram followers as a factor, whatever … But the other is what’s always been there, the craft of film-making, directing, lighting and production design. That keeps artists alive."
Gladiator 2 Will Focus On The Story Of Lucius
It all sounds a bit like he will at least try to win an Oscar for his role as Lucius, because he cares about the craft of acting and does not seem to be there just to be famous or to boost his reputation for future roles. That could make all the difference when it comes to his commitment to the role. It will be interesting to see where and how Gladiator 2 continues Lucius' journey.
Towards the end of the first Gladiator, Lucius, then portrayed by Spencer Treat Clark, is in the Colosseum when the final confrontation between Maximus and Commodus takes place. Lucius witnesses Commodus' death at the hands of Maximus.
In the aftermath of the battle, Lucius is seen in the stands, visibly affected by the events he has witnessed. He understands the significance of Maximus's sacrifice and how it has changed the course of history. Lucius's character symbolizes hope for a better future in Rome, as he has been influenced by the honor and integrity demonstrated by Maximus.The movie ends with Lucius and other survivors paying tribute to Maximus, who has succumbed to his wounds and joined his family in the afterlife. Lucius' character plays a pivotal role in the story and carries on Maximus' legacy – which will now be portrayed by Mescal in Gladiator 2.
The movie will come out on November 22 this year in the United States and Canada. A fanmade trailer gives an idea of what we can expect: