The upcoming release ofGladiator IIispredicted to be one of the biggest action epics of the year. Not only because of the huge success of the 2000 original, but becauseWashington’s role marks a significant career first- as it will be Washington’s first appearance in an existing franchise and the second sequel he has made. The 2024 picture is a continuation of Ridley Scott’s legendary 24-year-old story, which earned itself five Academy Awards in 2001. Considering the actor’s selective process for joining projects, his decision to sign ontoGladiator IImaydefine the next 10 years of Washington’s career.
The hype surroundingGladiator IIowes some credit to thereunion between Denzel Washington and Ridley Scott, 17 years after their collaboration on the acclaimedAmerican Gangster. Scott shared withEmpirethatGladiator II"is the best thing I’ve ever made… [well] one of the best things, I’ve made a few good ‘uns," and the upcoming historical action permits Washington an opportunity to equal anOscars feat only seven other actors have managed.
Gladiator 2 Is Only The Second Sequel Denzel Washington Has Made (& His First Existing Franchise)
Washington Has Turned Down Many Iconic Franchise Roles
Gladiator IIis a significant moment in Denzel Washington’s career, as it marks his second sequel afterThe Equalizer 2and3, and his first time joining an existing franchise. Surprisingly,Gladiator IIwill be the first time Washington is involved in a sequel where he has not been part of the first. This is remarkable, given that Washington has been acting for almost half a century, across a number of eclectic projects. This may be because Washington’s experience in standalone films has made him better equipped to guide the production process, and develop a unique vision for his characters.
Gladiator 2 Timeline: When The Sequel Is Set & How Long After The First Movie
Gladiator II is set to continue the original’s story years after it was released, and the sequel will also take place years after Maximus’ death.
Washington’s acting is largely unparalleledand provides him with the autonomy to select the roles that truly resonate with him, and engage with the projects that he is most passionate about. This means that eventhe biggest roles Washington has turned downin numerous iconic franchises do not impede on his reputation. By electing to makeGladiator IIhis first emergence within a sequel, this indicates the strength of Scott’s upcoming project, and provides some insight into just how intricate the characters in this action epic will be. Particularly for Washington’s character, Macrinus, the slave who earned his freedom through the Gladiator arenas.
Gladiator 2 Opens The Door For Denzel Washington To Join Other Major Franchises
It Could Be Interesting To See Washington In The MCU or DCEU
Denzel Washington’s involvement inGladiator IImay signal a major reversal in his approach to character-driven narratives. IfGladiator IIperforms at the rate it’s currently predicted,the success of Scott’s sequel may overturn Washington’s reluctance to sign onto existing franchises. Likewise,Gladiator IIwill open up doors to many other lucrative franchises, which include the Marvel Cinematic Universe, or the DC comic universe. Although it’s important to note that Washington will not be restricted to these franchises alone, as contracts within the Bond, Avatar, or Mission: Impossible franchises could remain on offer for Washington’s participation.
It should be pointed out that, besides Denzel Washington’s role inGladiator IIcreating a great new career trend,the transitional landscape of Hollywood further increases the circumstances for Washington to join other major franchises. Such sequels have come to dominate the big screen in recent years, where the growth of franchises such asJurassic WorldandIndiana Jonesare increasingly prevalent. This results in actors who may be traditionally associated with independent films now appearing in blockbuster sequels - possibly the most obvious example beingThe Batmanwhere Robert Pattinson starred as Bruce Wayne.
Denzel Washington Having A Franchise Era At This Point In His Career Would Be Hugely Exciting
Washington Would Excel In Any Project He’s A Part Of
While it is not confirmed to be entirely on the cards for the actor as yet,his talent and charisma make the franchise era an arresting project. With a number of honors, including two Academy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and one Tony Award, Washington has consistently demonstrated his increased proficiency as an actor. Franchises most often involve huge world-building and extended storylines that would greatly benefit from Washington’s expertise in crafting multi-layered characters.
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In addition, the unexpected venture into franchises is likely to lead to several other creative partnerships.Denzel Washington’s collaboration with other talented actors and filmmakers could be incredibly exciting, and could lead to some partnerships that Hollywood would greatly benefit from. Not only would these franchises have the potential to reach wider audiences, but they would showcase Denzel Washington’s versatility, and solidify his status as a cinematic legend.
