The film Gladiator 2, which is now showing in UK cinemas, is a fictional story set against the backdrop of the Roman Empire. While the movie incorporates real historical figures into the narrative, it is important to remember that the story itself is intended as a work of fiction. Despite this, it is interesting to consider what aspects of the film accurately depict the historical period and which elements are a product of artistic license.
In the film, characters like the brothers Geta and Caracalla are based on real historical figures who ruled as co-emperors during the time the film is set. However, the details of their relationship and the events that unfold in the movie are largely fictionalized. Other characters, such as Lucilla and Lucius, are also loosely based on real figures, with some significant deviations from historical events.
One aspect of the film that drew attention and criticism is the depiction of gladiators fighting sharks in the Colosseum. While this is a fabrication, it is not entirely implausible, as the Romans did flood the Colosseum on occasion for water-based spectacles. However, the idea of sharks being present in these battles is not supported by historical records.
Director Ridley Scott defended the inclusion of sharks in the film, arguing that if the Colosseum could be flooded with water, it was feasible to have sharks present. Historians, however, have refuted this claim, stating that sharks would not have been brought into the arena for gladiatorial fights. Despite this historical inaccuracy, the inclusion of sharks and other wild animals in the film adds to the spectacle of the story.
In addition to sharks, the film also features gladiators battling rhinos, which is another historical inaccuracy. While it is unlikely that men would have ridden atop rhinos during gladiatorial fights, it was common for a variety of wild animals, such as lions, bears, and giraffes, to be brought into the arena for entertainment.
Overall, Gladiator 2 takes liberties with historical accuracy to create an engaging and entertaining story set in the Roman Empire. While some aspects of the film may not align with historical records, they contribute to the narrative and spectacle of the movie. As the film continues to screen in UK cinemas, audiences can enjoy the fictionalized tale of gladiators and the Roman Empire.
