The movie’s director, Ridley Scott, spoke to The New York Times before the upcoming release of “Gladiator II” and revealed that the first few days of production didn’t go as planned – mainly because Phoenix was overwhelmed and Crowe believed his behavior was “unprofessional.”

Joaquin Phoenix nearly gave up his villainous role of Commodus in the original “Gladiator.” While discussing the cult classic’s upcoming sequel with the New York Times, director Ridley Scott revealed Phoenix had to be convinced to stay on the film after threatening to drop out at the last minute.

Ridley Scott reflected on the rocky start between his two lead actors, Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix, when filming 'Gladiator.'

Gladiator 2 is finally here, and Pedro Pascal's character is mightily similar to Russell Crowe's iconic Maximus, but with a far darker twist.

While undoubtedly entertaining, the sequel feels like a duplicate of the original which sacrifices characterisation for ambitious set pieces.

It has been 24 years since Ridley Scott gave the world a glimpse of the Roman Empire in Gladiator. The film over the years has attained cult status and is lauded by one and all.

Gladiator II has finally been released, with the long-awaited sequel to the 2000 film following the journey of Maximus' son Lucius, but does Russell Crowe return as Maximus?