Paul Mescal Hopes ‘Gladiator 2’ and ‘Wicked’ Can Be the Next Barbenheimer

Paul Mescal is optimistic that Gladiator II and Wicked can mimic the “Barbenheimer” phenomenon.

The two highly anticipated blockbusters are set to hit theaters on November 22, and Mescal hopes the simultaneous release can recreate the excitement that accompanied Barbie and Oppenheimer when they were released in July 2023.

Speaking to Entertainment Tonight, Mescal quipped, “Wickdiator doesn’t really roll off the tongue, does it? I think my preference would probably be Glicked if it has a similar effect to what it did for Barbie and Oppenheimer.”

He added, “It would be amazing because I think the films couldn’t be more polar opposites, and it worked in that context previously. So, fingers crossed people come out and see both films on opening weekend.”

The Oscar-nominated actor plays the role of Lucius Verus in the sequel, the former heir to the Roman Empire who is now forced into slavery. Mescal explained the physical challenges he faced in preparing for the part, emphasizing the need to find a balance without going overboard.

“I just wanted to be big and strong and look like somebody who can cause a bit of damage when s— hits the fan,” Mescal said. “I think also, sometimes, in striving for that perfect look, one could end up looking more like an underwear model than a warrior. Muscles start to grow, and that can be deemed aesthetic in certain capacities, but there is something about feeling strong in your body that elicits just a different feeling.”

Sir Ridley Scott’s historical epic arrives 24 years after the original film was released. Mescal assured fans that the sequel pays “homage” to its predecessor while simultaneously bringing a fresh narrative.

“I think the main thing that I’m excited about is the homage that it pays to the first one but also the new direction the film takes,” Mescal explained. “I think it’s well balanced in that regard in terms of the physical action of the film and the balance of the political aspects of the film as well.”

Gladiator II is set to open in theaters on November 22.

Source: Entertainment Tonight