The anticipation for the release of Gladiator 2 is tantalising, with the long-awaited sequel set to be the cinematic event of the year. A lot has changed in the entertainment scene since Gladiator dropped in 2000, and there’s a chance that the new picture could reinvigorate the franchise.
Indeed, one of the most common marketing techniques for modern franchises is to release spinoff series that expand the world and reach a greater number of fans. The Gladiator universe would arguably be ideal for this treatment, but it may depend on how commercially successful the new movie is.
Gladiator’s Influence on Popular Culture Still Felt Today
When Gladiator was released, it sent shock waves throughout the entertainment industry that are still being felt today. Indeed, even unrelated sectors, such as the bingo at Paddy’s, have offerings that are clearly inspired by the Ridley Scott epic. Slingo Centurion Maximus Winnus is a clever play on Russell Crowe’s Maximus Decimus Meridius character’s name, and the game features classic Roman themes.
Gladiator also had a massive impact on television, with a rise in historical content on the small screen in the decades after its release. For instance, HBO released Rome in 2005, aiming to appeal to the massive audience that enjoyed Gladiator. Other successful historical series in recent times include Vikings and The Last Kingdom, which were also designed to attract people who enjoyed Gladiator.
Gladiator 2 Will Be the Film Event of the Year
There’s a strong chance that Gladiator 2 could have the same effect that Gladiator had, as it’s expected to be the film event of the year. Indeed, with Pedro Pascal and Denzel Washington on board with Scott back in the director’s chair, it has all the ingredients needed to be a hit.
According to ScreenRant, Gladiator 2 will be a box-office sensation set to turn Paul Mescal into an international star. Its predecessor raked in $465.4 million worldwide, and the new offering is likely to double that in today’s market. Along with having the original as a springboard, the new picture will also boast more realistic visuals and greater immersion.
A Spinoff Series Would Make Sense
One of the most common strategies to boost movies in the modern age is to release related spinoff series to help widen the viewer base. HBO Max has been behind many of these projects to date, with Peacemaker acting as a worthy expansion to the Suicide Squad universe.
A spinoff in Scott’s Gladiator universe could easily work, as there are many characters and new settings that it could explore in more detail. Indeed, it would give viewers a chance to learn more about secondary characters in the picture and provide greater context to help them understand the films.
Gladiator 2 is set to drop in a vastly different entertainment age to its predecessor. If it is as influential as the film that came before it, it could lead to a trend in new historical-themed content. It could also lead to spinoffs within the Gladiator franchise, such as a television series or a game.
