If you're eagerly awaiting the release of 'Gladiator II' (2024) and craving more epic historical dramas filled with intense battles, political intrigue, and unforgettable characters, you're in the right place. This article highlights 10 movies and shows that capture the same grandeur and emotional depth as Ridley Scott's highly anticipated sequel. Whether you're a fan of ancient Rome or just love a gripping tale of revenge and honor, these recommendations will keep you entertained while you wait.

Quo Vadis (1951)
Description: 'Quo Vadis' is similar to 'Gladiator II' in its depiction of ancient Rome and its focus on the conflict between personal beliefs and imperial power. Both films are epic in scope and feature lavish production designs.
Fact: One of the first Hollywood epics to be filmed in Technicolor. The film was a major box office success, helping to revive the historical epic genre. It was nominated for eight Academy Awards.


The Fall of the Roman Empire (1964)
Description: As a precursor to 'Gladiator', this film shares many themes with 'Gladiator II', including the decline of Rome and the personal dramas of its leaders. Both films are grand in scale and focus on historical figures.
Fact: The film's sets were among the largest ever built at the time. It was a financial failure but is now considered a classic. The screenplay was written by the same team behind 'Spartacus'.


Excalibur (1981)
Description: 'Excalibur' shares with 'Gladiator II' a mythological and historical setting, with a focus on legendary heroes and their struggles. Both films are visually striking and emphasize the grandeur and brutality of their respective eras.
Fact: The film features early performances by Liam Neeson and Patrick Stewart. The armor used in the film was real metal, weighing down the actors. The director, John Boorman, also considered making a 'Lord of the Rings' adaptation before this film.


The 13th Warrior (1999)
Description: This film, like 'Gladiator II', combines historical and mythological elements, focusing on a warrior's journey in a foreign land. Both films feature intense battle scenes and a protagonist who must prove himself in a new culture.
Fact: Based on Michael Crichton's novel 'Eaters of the Dead'. The film's production was troubled, with extensive reshoots and delays. Antonio Banderas learned Old Norse for his role.


Kingdom of Heaven (2005)
Description: This Ridley Scott film, like 'Gladiator II', is a historical epic set in a turbulent period of history, featuring large-scale battles and a protagonist caught in a web of political intrigue. Both films explore themes of faith, leadership, and the cost of war.
Fact: The director's cut is significantly different from the theatrical release, adding nearly an hour of footage. The film was shot in Morocco and Spain. Orlando Bloom's character is loosely based on a real historical figure, Balian of Ibelin.


Troy (2004)
Description: 'Troy' shares with 'Gladiator II' its epic scale, ancient setting, and focus on legendary warriors. Both films highlight the brutality of combat and the personal vendettas that drive their characters. The themes of heroism and fate are central to both stories.
Fact: Brad Pitt trained for six months to prepare for his role as Achilles. The film's budget was over $175 million, making it one of the most expensive films ever made at the time. The Trojan Horse was built full-size for the film.


Centurion (2010)
Description: 'Centurion' is similar to 'Gladiator II' in its depiction of Roman soldiers and their struggles in a hostile land. Both films feature intense action sequences and a focus on the camaraderie and survival of their protagonists.
Fact: The film is loosely based on the legend of the Ninth Legion, which disappeared in Scotland. It was shot in the Scottish Highlands, standing in for ancient Britain. The director, Neil Marshall, is known for his work in the horror genre.


The Eagle (2011)
Description: Like 'Gladiator II', 'The Eagle' is set in Roman times and follows a soldier on a quest for honor and redemption. Both films explore the clash of cultures and the personal journey of their main characters.
Fact: Based on the novel 'The Eagle of the Ninth' by Rosemary Sutcliff. The film features a mix of English and Latin dialogue. Channing Tatum trained in sword fighting for his role.


Ben-Hur (2016)
Description: Similar to 'Gladiator II', 'Ben-Hur' is a historical epic that features intense chariot races and gladiatorial combat, set against the backdrop of the Roman Empire. Both films explore themes of revenge, redemption, and the struggle against oppression. The visual grandeur and large-scale battle scenes are also comparable.
Fact: 'Ben-Hur' is a remake of the 1959 classic, which won 11 Academy Awards. The chariot race scene took months to film and involved real horses and stunt drivers. The film was shot in Italy, the same country where 'Gladiator II' is set.


The Last Duel (2021)
Description: Like 'Gladiator II', 'The Last Duel' is a historical drama set in a medieval context, focusing on honor, betrayal, and violent confrontations. Both films delve into the personal and political conflicts of their protagonists, with a strong emphasis on dramatic storytelling and period authenticity.
Fact: Directed by Ridley Scott, who also directed the original 'Gladiator'. The film is based on a true story from 14th-century France. It features a unique narrative structure, telling the same events from three different perspectives.
