Based on Pedro Pascal’s recent comments about the production, Gladiator 2 is avoiding a major problem that could’ve ruined Ridley Scott’s long-awaited swords-and-sandals sequel. Set 15 years after the original film, Gladiator 2 will star Paul Mescal as the adult version of Lucius Verus, who was previously played by Spencer Treat Clark in the original movie, and Denzel Washington as a former slave who became a wealthy arms dealer. Pascal is also in the cast of the Gladiator sequel, playing an as-yet-undisclosed role, and his latest update from the set is a promising sign. Scott’s recent directorial work has been very hit-and-miss. Movies like The Martian and The Last Duel rank alongside Scott’s best, but House of Gucci and Napoleon both received mixed reviews, and The Counselor and Exodus: Gods and Kings were outright panned by critics. So, Gladiator 2’s success is far from guaranteed. It could be another hit on the level of The Martian, or it could be another flop like Napoleon. Fortunately, Pascal’s recent update on the making of Gladiator 2 is a sign that the sequel is heading in the right direction creatively.