A R

I enjoyed Gladiator II. Denzil Washington’s performance was brilliantly slimy, devious and powerful. The scenes created by CGI of Rome were marvellous, and the story line was a ripping yarn in the old school tradition of Saturday matinees. But the lead character, played by Paul Mescal never really engaged the audience emotionally. I did not empathise with him the way we all did with Russell Crowe in the first film. The twin emperors were truly horrid, so very well cast and so very well played. In the end the film disappoints because the dream of a fair and just Rome seems unattainable.

Brilliant. For elder kids and us parents. The Disney team produce a big tear jerking winner. Great songs, fun and a proper story. 5 stars.