Paul Mescal has shared the story of his first day on set of Gladiator II with legendary movie director Ridley Scott as he promoted the highly anticipated upcoming release

Gladiator II’ stars Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, Connie Nielsen and Fred Hechinger discussed filming Ridley Scott’s sequel at a special screening on the Paramount Pictures lot in Los Angeles on Oct.

Emmy-nominated producer and entertainment journalist Scott Mantz added: ‘GLADIATOR II is indeed the REAL DEAL! An epic sequel worthy of its Oscar-winning predecessor — great action, amazing visual effects, stellar performances across the board (esp. PAUL MESCAL & DENZEL WASHINGTON)! A return to form for director RIDLEY SCOTT! I was ENTERTAINED!’

Ridley Scott may not have been present for the first major screening of “Gladiator II” on Friday night on the Paramount lot in Los Angeles, but the 86-year-old director was the favorite topic of conversation for stars Paul Mescal,

Gladiator II is Ridley Scott’s best film since The Martian. A big, bloody and bad ass action spectacle that builds upon the legacy of the original. The film showcases beautiful set pieces and a lot of epic battles.

Gladiator 2 might not even be out yet, and Ridley Scott might be getting quite close to his 90s, but he's already working on a script for a third one.

Ridley Scott's Gladiator II is set to be released 24 years after the original film hit theaters, but fans of the saga might not have to wait long for its third installment.

GLADIATOR II works best as an acting showcase for Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, & Joseph Quinn. It's largely uneven & lacks the emotional punch of the first film. However, Ridley Scott's direction is unhinged, framing this as an epic Roman opera. The visuals get the job done. pic.twitter.com/R0xRDFTuwX

Gladiator II” screened for the first time on Friday, October 18 at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, and based on early reactions on social media from film critics and influencers, it is “a big, bloody and bad ass action spectacle,

Gladiator II is eliciting rave reviews ahead of its November release. Ridley Scott's highly anticipated sequel has received critical acclaim and Oscar attention for Scott and star Denzel Washington, following a special screening at the Paramount lot.

Gladiator 2 premiered in Los Angeles at a screening, and if the first reactions are any indication, then Ridley Scott has pulled off a ‘worthy’ sequel.