Celebrate the season with a breathtaking retelling of the Nativity as “Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night”premieres in the Philippines this December 11, exclusively at SM Cinemas. This Christmas special, inspired by the globally acclaimed TV series The Chosen, offers a heartfelt portrayal of the birth of Jesus Christ, seamlessly blending human emotion with divine grace.
A Cinematic Nativity Experience Like No Other
Starring Sara Anne as a youthful Mother Mary and Raj Bond as Joseph, the film captures the simplicity and sanctity of Christ’s birth. It delves into Mary and Joseph’s personal journey while showcasing the extraordinary mission they embraced. Fans will also recognize familiar faces from The Chosen series, including Elizabeth Tabish (Mary Magdalene) and Vanessa Benavente (older Mother Mary).
Adding to the immersive experience, the special features a heartfelt video message from The Chosen creator Dallas Jenkins, encouraging viewers to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.
Music That Magnifies the Spirit of the Season
The special’s soundtrack elevates the emotional narrative with performances by global icons like Andrea Bocelli and his son Matteo Bocelli, alongside the soulful sounds of The Feast Worship, adding a unique Filipino touch. This harmony of music and visuals transforms the film into a worship experience that stirs the soul.
A Touching Response from Fans
During a recent preview held in Manila, attendees were moved by the film’s authenticity and emotional depth. One viewer shared, “It made me feel like I was present at the Nativity.” Another praised it as “the perfect reminder of the reason for the season.”
Jonathan Roumie’s Gratitude to Filipino Fans
Jonathan Roumie, the beloved actor who portrays Jesus in The Chosen, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the warm reception in the Philippines. “To see such a warm reception to The Chosen here is humbling,” he said. Roumie marveled at the country’s unique Christmas spirit, where celebrations begin as early as September and culminate in January.
An Invitation to Experience Christmas Anew
“The Chosen Christmas Special: Holy Night” isn’t just a movie—it’s an invitation to reflect on the wonder of Christ’s birth. Perfect for family gatherings or personal quiet moments, this special promises to inspire faith and foster gratitude.
Tickets are available now via the SM Cinema app on Google Play and the App Store. Reserve your seats early to be part of this unforgettable celebration of Christmas.
Fans of the original trilogy will be thrilled to hear some beloved voices in this new adventure. Miranda Otto reprises her iconic role as Éowyn, narrating the tale of her ancestors. Adding to the excitement, Dominic Monaghan and Billy Boyd—Merry and Pippin from the original Lord of the Rings trilogy—lend their talents to the anime. While their roles remain a mystery, their appearance in a recent behind-the-scenes featurette has fueled fan anticipation.
World PremiereBrian CoxDominic Monaghan & Billy Boyd
A Starry Premiere
On December 3, London played host to the world premiere of The War of the Rohirrim. Among the guests were Monaghan and Boyd, alongside voice cast members Brian Cox (Helm Hammerhand), Gaia Wise (Héra), and Luke Pasqualino (Wulf). The event also featured filmmakers such as director Kenji Kamiyama (Blade Runner: Black Lotus) and producer Philippa Boyens, known for her Oscar-winning contributions to The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
The red carpet buzz didn’t stop there—Sir Ian McKellen, Cate Blanchett, Andy Serkis, and other stars from the original films were also in attendance, making it a night to remember.
The Story: A New Legend of Rohan
Set 183 years before the events of The Lord of the Rings, The War of the Rohirrim tells the dramatic tale of Helm Hammerhand, the legendary King of Rohan. When Wulf, a cunning Dunlending lord (voiced by Luke Pasqualino), attacks, Helm and his people are forced into a desperate stand at the Hornburg—later known as Helm’s Deep.
Helm’s daughter, Héra (Gaia Wise), emerges as a courageous leader, rallying her people against overwhelming odds. This gripping tale of heroism and sacrifice is sure to captivate fans old and new.
Gaia WisePeter JacksonPhilippa Boyens
About the Film
Directed by Kenji Kamiyama, The War of the Rohirrim boasts a stellar voice cast including Brian Cox as Helm Hammerhand and Miranda Otto as Éowyn. The production team features The Lord of the Rings veterans Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, and Peter Jackson, with artistic contributions from Alan Lee, Richard Taylor, and John Howe—names synonymous with Tolkien’s cinematic world.
Prepare to roar with excitement as Disney’s “Mufasa: The Lion King” makes its way to Philippine cinemas this December 18! This highly anticipated film uncovers the epic untold origin story of one of the Pride Lands’ most legendary rulers. Advance tickets are now available, so secure your spot for a front-row seat to cinematic magic.
A Musical Masterpiece by Lin-Manuel Miranda
Adding to the grandeur, the film boasts an original motion picture soundtrack featuring seven new songs by the renowned Lin-Manuel Miranda, celebrated for his work on Hamilton, Moana, and Encanto. Miranda teams up with composer Mark Mancina and Grammy-winning Walt Disney Music President Tom MacDougall to craft melodies that perfectly capture Mufasa’s emotional journey.
The soundtrack, available in songs-only and deluxe versions, will launch on December 13 and is now open for pre-order. Here’s a sneak peek at the lineup:
“The Lion King has an incredible musical legacy with music from some of the greatest songwriters around, and I’m humbled and proud to be a part of it. It’s been a joy working alongside Barry Jenkins to bring Mufasa’s story to life, and we can’t wait for audiences to experience this film in theaters.”
A Star-Studded Cast and Visionary Direction
Directed by Oscar-winner Barry Jenkins (Moonlight), the film features a stellar ensemble cast blending familiar voices with fresh talent:
Blue Ivy Carter, Beyoncé’s daughter, makes her acting debut as Kiara, Simba and Nala’s young cub.
A Tale of Heart and Adventure
Set as a story told by Rafiki to young Kiara, Mufasa: The Lion King traces the journey of an orphaned cub who rises from obscurity to claim the throne. Along the way, Mufasa befriends Taka, a lion of royal lineage, and together they embark on a gripping adventure filled with courage, betrayal, and resilience.
The bonds of friendship will be tested, destinies revealed, and the Pride Lands’ greatest legacy forged.
Don’t Miss the Roar!
Tickets for Mufasa: The Lion King are already selling fast. Reserve yours now and experience this extraordinary family adventure in cinemas starting December 18.
It’s another exciting week at the movies with a diverse lineup of films! Whether you’re in the mood for grand adventures, emotionally charged stories, or a night filled with music, this week’s offerings have you covered. Leading the charge is Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated Gladiator II, an action-packed sequel that revisits the might and mystique of Ancient Rome. Christine Bermas shines in Celestina: Burlesk Dancer, a powerful Filipino drama set in the 1940s. Meanwhile, the Korean action-crime thriller Dirty Money promises edge-of-your-seat excitement. Looking ahead, horror fans can gear up for Heretic, where Hugh Grant delivers a chilling performance. Later in the week, take an introspective journey with BTS leader RM in RM: Right People, Wrong Place. Plus, if music is your language of choice, don’t miss Laufey’s A Night at the Symphony: Hollywood Bowl. With this lineup, your December movie calendar just got a whole lot busier. Let’s break down each of this week’s exciting new releases.
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
2024 • R-18 • 2 hrs 27 mins ACTION, ADVENTURE, DRAMA BUY TICKETS
Ridley Scott returns to Ancient Rome with Gladiator II, an epic continuation of the story that captured hearts over two decades ago. This time, the spotlight is on Lucius (Paul Mescal), the now-grown nephew of Maximus, the heroic gladiator from the original film. After Rome falls under the grip of tyrannical rulers, Lucius finds himself thrust into the brutal world of the Colosseum.
The star-studded cast includes Denzel Washington and Pedro Pascal, adding gravitas and charisma to this tale of vengeance, power, and redemption. With Scott’s signature visual flair and a script steeped in historical drama, Gladiator IIis a must-watch for fans of epic storytelling.
Set in the Philippines during the 1940s, Celestina is a poignant tale of resilience. The film follows Celestina, a burlesque dancer struggling to support her family while dealing with a neglectful and self-destructive husband. Christine Bermas delivers a heartfelt performance as a mother who finds strength through her love for her son despite life’s adversities.
Directed with a sharp eye for period detail, the film captures the cultural and societal challenges of the time, making it both a moving drama and a rich exploration of history.
For fans of gritty crime dramas, Dirty Money offers a gripping narrative about corruption, betrayal, and survival. The story follows two detectives, Myung-deuk and Dong-hyeok, who find themselves in desperate circumstances. Their decision to steal from a Chinese gang leads to chaos as they’re hunted by both the authorities and the criminals they crossed.
With intense performances from Jung Woo and Kim Dae-myung, this Korean thriller masterfully combines high-octane action with emotional depth. Expect twists, turns, and plenty of suspense as the stakes rise with every scene.
If you’re craving chills, Heretic delivers in spades. This horror-thriller pits two young missionaries against Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant), a diabolical figure who traps them in a deadly game of faith and survival. As secrets unravel and terror mounts, the film explores the boundaries of belief and the human psyche.
Grant’s transformation into a menacing antagonist is as chilling as it is compelling. Paired with Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East’s gripping performances, Heretic offers a haunting cinematic experience.
2024 • PG • 1 hr 34 mins ANIMATION, DRAMA, MUSIC GET SHOWTIMES
In Trapezium, we follow Yu Azuma, a high school girl chasing her dream of becoming an idol. To succeed, she imposes strict rules on herself, navigating friendships and challenges with grace and determination. This Japanese animated film is a heartfelt exploration of ambition, identity, and self-discovery.
Featuring stunning visuals and a moving soundtrack, Trapezium is perfect for fans of animation and coming-of-age stories.
2024 • PG • 1 hr 19 mins DOCUMENTARY, MUSIC GET SHOWTIMES (Opening Date: Friday, Dec 5)
Step into the mind of BTS leader RM in this introspective documentary. As Kim Nam-joon reflects on his journey in music and life, the film delves into the creative process behind his second solo album, Right Place, Wrong Person.
This documentary offers an intimate glimpse into the artist’s personal and professional evolution, making it a must-watch for ARMYs and music enthusiasts alike.
2024 • PG • 1 hr 38 mins MUSIC GET SHOWTIMES (Opening Date: Friday, Dec 6)
Experience the magic of Laufey’s enchanting music in A Night at the Symphony. This concert film captures the singer’s unforgettable performance at the Hollywood Bowl with the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Featuring lush orchestral arrangements and Laufey’s signature style, it’s a feast for the ears and eyes.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to her music, this symphonic journey is bound to leave you spellbound.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still playing in cinemas – catch them before they’re gone! Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:
That’s a wrap for this week’s new movie releases. Don’t wait—secure your tickets, grab your popcorn, and get into the excitement of these must-see films. We highly recommend booking in advance to ensure you don’t miss out.
Check our movie section for screening times and make your next movie outing unforgettable. Stay tuned for next week’s updates, and happy watching!
Marvel fans, rejoice! Sony Pictures has unveiled the first eight minutes of Kraven the Hunter, giving audiences a sneak peek into the action-packed origin story of one of Marvel’s most fearsome villains. The footage, which electrified fans at New York Comic Con last October, captures the essence of Kraven’s relentless nature as an apex predator in the Marvel universe.
Actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson, who stars as the titular character, delivers a heartfelt opening message in the video, spreading holiday cheer before plunging viewers into a gripping cinematic experience.
Book Your Seats Now
Mark your calendars! Kraven the Hunter roars into Philippine cinemas on December 11. Secure your tickets here.
What to Expect from Kraven the Hunter
Kraven the Hunter isn’t just an origin story; it’s a visceral exploration of vengeance, power, and survival. Aaron Taylor-Johnson portrays Kraven, a man driven by his tumultuous relationship with his father, Nikolai Kravinoff, played by the formidable Russell Crowe. This father-son conflict propels Kraven into a brutal journey to become the world’s greatest hunter—and one of Marvel’s most iconic villains.
This holiday season, experience the thrill, the action, and the hunt. Follow the story of Kraven as he rises to claim his place as one of Marvel’s fiercest antiheroes.
Distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, a local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, Kraven the Hunter is set to deliver an epic year-end blockbuster. Don’t forget to share your excitement with #KravenTheHunter!
Visionary director Ridley Scott has long been known for his ability to cast actors who leave indelible marks on audiences. For Gladiator II, the stakes were higher than ever. How do you follow up the Oscar-winning original? Enter Paul Mescal, the breakout star from Normal People, who Scott describes as “a very sound, solid, sympathetic actor.”
Scott first noticed Mescal for his quiet intensity and likened him to acting greats like Richard Harris and Albert Finney. “He seemed a very sound, solid, and sympathetic actor. As this story in the script started to evolve, I kept thinking about him. I knew that he was a very good theater actor, which to me is a plus. Theater actors keep me honest. I tend to be very visual and move like lightning. They like to know about the story and the characters between each take.”
A Star in the Making
Playing Lucius, the son of Maximus (Russell Crowe’s iconic character from the original), Mescal had to balance emotional depth with physical ferocity. Producer Douglas Wick says the decision to cast him was a “leap of faith.” Mescal’s transformation from the sensitive lead of Normal People to a commanding gladiator wasn’t an obvious choice. But as Wick notes, “That meant we either had to find a new star or make one. It was an incredible risk on a big movie to choose an actor who’s never carried one. And our protagonist also had to be credible as an action hero. Ridley, the producers and the studio all held hands with Mescal and jumped off a cliff. We would soon discover that Paul is one of those once-in-a-generation talents who always lands on his feet.”
From Rugby to Rome
Mescal’s athletic background was another asset. Producer Lucy Fisher recalls how they asked Mescal if he had any sports experience. His answer? Irish rugby, a sport demanding grit and resilience. “were all wowed by Paul’s talent.” But they first had to check one very important thing: if Mescal played any physical sport that could help him with his journey of becoming a gladiator for the film. “We had to sheepishly ask if he had ever played any sports, hoping to see a sign that he could play a gladiator,” Fisher recalls. “When he replied ‘Irish rugby,’ which we know demands toughness and more than a little lunacy, we knew we had our man. Some might say it was a gamble, but Paul has such wisdom and depth as an actor and such clarity as a human being that it never felt like a risk. Plus, the camera loves him, as did everyone who worked with him.”
Rigorous Preparation
Transforming into Lucius wasn’t just about looking the part. Mescal dove into intensive training with Tim Blakeley of Media Physiques, perfecting swordsmanship and enduring grueling workouts. Mescal describes the preparation as pivotal: “There were all kinds of practical elements,” he says. “I was going to the gym, weight training, running, eating a certain way, all of these things. The training was something I could grab onto with both hands during prep. Ridley’s only interest is the talent for which he hired us. You’ve got to just step into it.”
A Career-Defining Role
At just 28, Mescal’s resume is already dazzling: an Olivier Award for A Streetcar Named Desire and an Oscar nomination for Aftersun. But starring in a Ridley Scott epic? “pinch-me moment.” “Ridley Scott’s a king in cinema and especially this genre,” the actor says. “When Ridley comes knocking, you just say yes. It’s definitely been a career highlight for me to watch the way the master’s brain works. And he was incredibly generous about sharing his knowledge and talent with me.”
As Mescal reflects on the legacy of Gladiator, he acknowledges the gravity of the role: “It holds a huge amount of weight for a vast number of people across the world. And the scale of it is huge. It’s not like any other role I’ve played. Going from independent features to a blockbuster studio picture was intimidating until I realized that acting is acting is acting, regardless of the context.”
Experience the epic journey in Gladiator II, opening in cinemas on December 4. Stay connected: use the hashtag #GladiatorII and tag @paramountpicsph to join the conversation.
Fans of The Chosen were overjoyed on November 22, 2023, as Jonathan Roumie, renowned for his portrayal of Jesus Christ in the global hit series, made his much-anticipated visit to the Philippines. From press events to a teal-carpet fan gathering, Roumie’s warmth and faith captivated audiences, leaving an unforgettable mark on local hearts.
An Inspirational Day at BGC
The visit kicked off at Shangri-La The Fort, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), where Roumie engaged in interviews and press discussions. Sharing his experiences of embodying Christ and the profound impact of the show, he left the media inspired by his humility and eloquence.
Jonathan ROumie with Virlanie Voices
Teal-Carpet Magic at SM Megamall
The excitement escalated at SM Megamall, where fans eagerly awaited Roumie’s arrival at the teal carpet premiere of Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night. Roumie greeted supporters with a beaming smile, posing for photos and signing autographs.
The evening’s atmosphere was electric, with fans dressed as their favorite characters from the series. The event featured a live performance by the Virlanie Voices choir and exclusive fan experiences, setting the stage for the special screening.
The Premiere of Christmas with The Chosen
The night culminated with the debut of Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night. Featuring inspiring performances from global gospel artists, including The Feast Worship, the special celebrates the nativity story with music and reverence. Exclusively opening in SM Cinemas on December 11, tickets are now available for pre-booking.
Roumie expressed his gratitude to Filipino fans:
“Salamat! Thank you Philippines. We couldn’t make this show without your support, without your passion.”
He teased the fans about the upcoming Season 5, which will premiere in April 2025: “Your heads are gonna pop off when you see what we did. It’s gonna be so intense and beautiful and a little bit of heartbreak as well. You can always expect a good cry when you sit down to watch a season of The Chosen. So, Season 5 will be no less intense, no less joyful, no less heartbreaking than season 4. Each season, we try to give more than what we gave from the previous season, the show gets a little bit bigger. God just seems to be bringing us through the series in a way that is profound and mysterious and I really hope you enjoy it this coming Easter.”
“I am thrilled to see everyone here for this event. I have been a solid Chosen follower since the very beginning, actually during the pandemic. I am really really blessed that they are here to a nation that has been hungry for the Lord. And the series resonates so well with me because and, I can’t wait to make Jonathan know this, but ever since I was a child, the way I’ve always felt Jesus talking to me is exactly the way Jonathan portrays Him to be. You know, very tender, but very firm, very loving but with authority with every word that he says. That resonates with me really well because I’ve also been given a chance to speak with other young people and I do try my best to bring Jesus into their lives in a way that is different, in a way that would make them feel how precious they are to Jesus. You know, Jesus was human, and that’s what you see in The Chosen. Life changing, there were times I have to pause (when watching) and just realize the goodness of God presented this way for the world. I think it’s great, and what the world needs right now. And with social media being so much a part of our mind, I think The Chosen can be a part of our hearts,”
Fans of all ages, including those with disabilities, emphasized how The Chosen has touched their lives, loyal fans who unabashedly said their presence in the event was an answer to a prayer.
A Global Phenomenon: The Chosen
The Chosen reimagines the life of Jesus Christ through the eyes of those closest to Him. With over 253 million viewers worldwide, the series continues to break barriers as a crowd-funded success story.
Fans can watch the series across major streaming platforms or via the official app and website at watch.thechosen.tv.
Jonathan Roumie
Roumie’s Final Message to Filipinos
“Continue to be a culture of faith,” Roumie encouraged. “You inspire the world by putting God above all. God bless you, Philippines!”
As The Chosen gains momentum globally, Roumie’s visit highlighted its universal message of hope, love, and humanity—an experience Filipinos will cherish for years to come.
In an exciting new featurette, director Kenji Kamiyama takes fans behind the scenes of the highly anticipated anime film, The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim. “By delving into the past and maintaining that connection, I believed we could add depth to the film,” says director Kenji Kamiyama about the highly anticipated original anime feature “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim,” in a newly released featurette about the film. “This approach also allowed new stories to emerge.”
The film explores the untold saga of the legendary King Helm Hammerhand of Rohan, voiced by acclaimed actor Brian Cox (Succession). Facing a relentless siege by Wulf, a cunning and vengeful Dunlending lord brought to life by Luke Pasqualino (Snowpiercer), Helm and his people make their final stand at the fortress of the Hornburg—later known as Helm’s Deep. The story also introduces Helm’s daughter, Héra (Gaia Wise), a resilient young leader who rises to protect her people against overwhelming odds.
Anime Meets Tolkien: A Perfect Pairing
As an esteemed anime filmmaker known for works like Blade Runner: Black Lotus and Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, Kamiyama believes anime is uniquely suited to Tolkien’s world. “When you are entering into the world of animation, you have a certain agreement with the audience that it is make-believe,” he shares. “It’s a fantastic medium to depict fantasy and science fiction, where the world itself is already imagined.”
The Legacy of Tolkien Lives On
Actress Gaia Wise, who voices Héra, reflects on the timeless appeal of The Lord of the Rings. “These stories are about human nature, kindness, love, and resilience—things that speak to our souls,” she says. Wise, a lifelong fan of Tolkien, believes his stories resonate with every generation. “The world he created is so dramatic, beautiful, and heartfelt, and I think it will always captivate people.”
Behind the scenes, the creative team includes Oscar winners Philippa Boyens and Richard Taylor, alongside Tolkien illustrator John Howe, ensuring the film stays true to the spirit of Middle-earth.
Mark Your Calendar: December 11
The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim opens in cinemas on December 11, offering fans a stunning new perspective on Tolkien’s timeless world. Don’t miss this chance to journey back to Middle-earth.
Aaron Taylor Johnson in Columbia Pictures and Marvel “KRAVEN THE HUNTER“
A Family Legacy of Violence and Vengeance
It’s said that villains aren’t born—they’re made. Kraven the Hunter, Marvel’s latest addition to its cinematic universe, delves into the grim, intricate backstory of Sergei Kravinoff, better known as Kraven, one of Marvel Comics’ most iconic villains.
Portrayed by Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Sergei’s journey is one of rebellion against his family’s brutal legacy. Yet, his desire to escape his father’s violent ways ultimately transforms him into a fearsome criminal in his own right. At the heart of this tale is a haunting father-son dynamic that shapes Kraven’s destiny.
Russell Crowe, who plays Nikolai Kravinoff, describes his character as a controlling patriarch whose wealth and power cast a dark shadow over his children. ““Nikolai is a very wealthy man, and his kids have grown up with great privilege,” Crowe says. “He’s also a very harsh judge, and he puts his kids under a lot of pressure because he expects them to succeed and excel. As they get a little older, it’s not necessarily a very comfortable place to be when your father is extremely successful and demanding, and has a penchant for violence.”
A Powerful Bond Between Kraven and Calypso
In his quest to sever ties with his family’s bloody history, Kraven finds solace in Calypso, played by Ariana DeBose. A mysterious and spiritual figure, Calypso serves as both a guide and a partner to Kraven.
“The relationship between Kraven and Calypso is meant to feel like lightning in a bottle,” says DeBose. “It’s sort of this cosmic, astrological, spiritual meeting of two beings who are just destined to be in each other’s lives.”
For DeBose, her portrayal of Calypso resonated on a personal level. “Calypso is exploring who she is, and a part of that is digging into her ancestry,” says DeBose. “I’ve talked a lot in my career about using your lineage and your heritage. It’s a point of pride, it’s a point of strength, it’s what makes you unique.”
The film stars an impressive ensemble cast, including Fred Hechinger, Alessandro Nivola, and Christopher Abbott, alongside Taylor-Johnson, DeBose, and Crowe. With its raw intensity and compelling storytelling, the movie offers a deep dive into the psyche of a complex anti-hero.
Mark Your Calendars
Kraven the Hunter hits Philippine cinemas on December 11, 2024, distributed locally by Columbia Pictures, the Philippine branch of Sony Pictures Releasing International.
Stay updated with the latest news and join the conversation using the hashtag #KravenTheHunter.
Legendary director Ridley Scott is bringing audiences back to the heart of ancient Rome with Gladiator II, his most ambitious project yet. Collaborating with long-time production designer Arthur Max, this sequel promises a cinematic experience of epic proportions. The dynamic duo, who previously partnered on Gladiator, The Martian, American Gangster, and Napoleon, have outdone themselves, crafting a spectacle that redefines scale and authenticity.
“Gladiator on Steroids”
“Everything is much bigger and more elaborate than anything we’ve done before,” says Max, who oversaw the design and build of ancient Rome for the movie. “It’s Gladiator on steroids. Ridley’s approach to making a film is always immersive. He’s involved in every phase, every department. It can be a challenge working with him, because he expects so much. And I love a challenge.”
The sequel’s massive scope took production across Morocco, Malta, and Shepperton Studios in London. Producer Lucy Fisher describes the enormity:
“The scope was overwhelming. In Morocco, there were over 80-something huge tents dedicated just for the extras’ hair and makeup, and to house countless props and costumes. In Malta, we assembled the Arena, the palace and whole blocks of ancient Rome. There was a life size statue of Pedro Pascal on his horse. In a world of green screen and AI, this might be the last great build in movies. And we all felt privileged as we walked the streets of this lost world.”
A Set to Rival History
Spanning nearly eight kilometers, the recreated ancient city is brimming with meticulous details. Max’s designs combine traditional craftsmanship with advanced technology, creating a visually stunning Rome. From an enlarged replica of the Colosseum to a grand city entry arch adorned with Romulus and Remus motifs, the artistry behind the sets rivals that of historical Rome itself.
One jaw-dropping element is the Colosseum set. Built at one-third the height and spanning about a quarter of the original structure, its foundation was elevated to allow for scenes involving water. “We knew we had to fill it with water,” says Max. “So we raised the foundation up about five feet so we could still see what we wanted above the water line when we flooded it digitally. We also enlarged the entry arch, so we could bring the ships in through the gates. We gave it a little bit of a boost from the bottom up, but you will recognize it when you watch the film.”
The Magic of Multitudes
Bringing Rome to life meant assembling over 500 extras to crowd the Colosseum—a number augmented digitally for the amphitheater’s grand scenes. Scott’s signature filming techniques, including simultaneous action and multi-camera setups (up to 12 cameras per scene), ensured that the chaos of ancient Rome felt authentic.
Each scene, he says, is directed like a play, with simultaneous action taking place all over the set. “You have to know exactly where to place the cameras,” explains the director. “I can do that because I’ve storyboarded it all in advance. For even the best camera operator it can be hell. I don’t rehearse with the actors, but I do rehearse with the camera operators, and I dress them in costume on the set because they could end up in a scene.”
A Must-Watch Event
With unparalleled attention to detail and a dedication to practical effects, Gladiator II may mark the last great cinematic build of its kind. Witness the grandeur when it premieres in cinemas on December 4.
Stay connected with #GladiatorII and follow @paramountpicsph for exclusive updates.
