Ridley Scott's long-awaited 'Gladiator' sequel delivers a mixed bag of old-school thrills and modern twists, leaving critics divided on its overall impact.
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Despite mixed reviews, early box office projections have 'Gladiator II' on track to surpass its predecessor's $460 million global haul, signaling continued audience appetite for the franchise.
Joaquin Phoenix's return as the tormented emperor Commodus is earning widespread praise, with many citing his performance as the film's standout, elevating an otherwise uneven script.