What does it take to bring to life the long-awaited sequel to one of the most iconic movies of all time? With Gladiator II, Ridley Scott along with John Mathieson explain the film's production process and the challenges they faced during filming. The large production, which aims to transport viewers to the world of ancient Rome, has required a lot of effort and dedication to create a sequel that meets the standards of the 2000 masterpiece.
The Filming Locations
The production of Gladiator II took place between June 2023 and early 2024, facing interruptions due to strikes by writers and actors. The main filming spanned three key locations:
Ouarzazate, Morocco: At the famous Atlas Studios, ancient provinces of Numidia and Mauritania were recreated. The Aït Benhaddou fortress, an architectural gem, was also used, which was already a setting for the first installment.
Fort Ricasoli, Malta: This location housed a partial replica of the Colosseum, adding authenticity to the combat scenes.
Sussex, United Kingdom: The Devil’s Dyke valley provided natural landscapes for outdoor scenes.
Despite some setbacks, such as an accident with fire that injured several people and an attack by an emperor Caracalla monkey on an actor, Scott managed to complete the main filming in just 50 days.
What Equipment Was Used for Filming?
The visual quality of Gladiator II is the result of combining modern cameras with classic filming techniques. John Mathieson, the director of photography, chose to use the ARRI Alexa Mini LF as the main camera, and although the initial idea was to recreate new scenes with a Super 35 camera, this could not be carried out and scenes from the previous film were salvaged. For aerial shots, DJI Inspire 3 drones were used, which are ideal in windy conditions as they ensure stability at all times.
Up to 12 digital cameras were used on set, as they are easier to operate and optimize time by capturing every necessary angle. Due to the high number of cameras, zoom played an important role due to the impossibility of getting close to the characters.
Real Sets and Spectacular Constructions
Instead of relying completely on CGI, the production opted for real elements to immerse both the actors and the audience in the story.
For instance, the scene of a Roman attack on a fort in Numidia did not require a new set but adapted an existing one in great detail. The maritime scenes were filmed dry using a self-propelled system to simulate navigation, capable of lifting and moving very heavy objects like the boats in the scene. Luke Scott, the second unit director, later shot the water scenes in a tank.
A scene that was cut from the first movie and revived for the sequel was the battle of rhinoceroses in the Colosseum. Instead of digitally creating the rhinoceros for the combat scene, a replica capable of moving at 40 miles per hour was built. “Although it didn't have legs, it kicked up dust, it was furious, and it knocked things over. [...] Although special effects are understood, having an object that is physically there helps the actors be more involved,” John Mathieson explained in Definition magazine.
The Unique Approach of Ridley Scott
Unlike many modern directors, Ridley Scott does not focus on designing elaborate shots. According to the director of photography, John Mathieson: “Ridley thinks about cuts while filming, which allows him to prioritize the story and pacing over complicated shots.” This direct style has allowed the production to move forward quickly and effectively.
The blend of classic techniques, advanced technology, and authentic locations makes Gladiator II one of the most anticipated films in recent years. From the use of iconic sets to bold decisions like building a rhinoceros instead of using CGI, the production demonstrates Scott's commitment to cinema that feels real and alive.
