Filmspotting

#992: Gladiator II w/Rico Gagliano, Moana 2, The Seed of the Sacred Fig

Nov 27, 2024

Film critic Rico Gagliano, known for his work on the MUBI podcast, joins the conversation to delve into Gladiator II. They discuss the film's narrative strengths and challenges, particularly regarding the younger cast and legacy of Maximus. The hosts also explore the animated sequel, Moana 2, praising its visuals while critiquing the music. Gagliano offers insights into the Iranian political thriller, The Seed of the Sacred Fig, highlighting its poignant themes of oppression. This mix of blockbuster and independent cinema sparks engaging dialogue on storytelling in today's films.

01:10:57

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Episode guests

Rico Gagliano

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Gladiator II seeks to recapture the epic scale of its predecessor, blending themes of power and revenge with new character dynamics.

Moana 2 delivers stunning animation and returns beloved characters, yet suffers from lackluster musical elements compared to the original.

The Seed of the Sacred Fig provides a poignant commentary on Iranian society, intertwining family drama with real-life political events for emotional impact.

Deep dives

Anticipation for Gladiator 2

The enthusiasm surrounding the release of Gladiator 2 is palpable, given the impact of the original film. This sequel, produced by Ridley Scott, aims to recapture that same epic scale, focusing on themes of power and revenge while introducing new characters intertwined with the legacy of Maximus. Paul Meskel stars as Lucius Aurelius, facing challenges as his character seeks revenge after experiencing personal loss related to the Roman army's conquest. The film promises a blend of intense drama and action, alongside a nod to the cinematic spectacle that defined its predecessor.

Intro

2min

Thanksgiving Reflections and Cinematic Highlights

2min

Exploring Hollywood's Biggest Flops

6min

Exploring Cinematic Classics and Future Epics

2min

Echoes of Gladiator II

26min

Exploring Gladiator II and Listener Connections

9min

Animated Heroines and Movie Moms

10min

Comparing Animation and Music in Moana 2

4min

Exploring Thematic Depths in Contemporary Cinema

5min

10.

End of Show Wrap-Up and Film Recommendations

4min

MUBI’s Rico Gagliano joins Adam and Josh for a review of Ridley Scott’s GLADIATOR II, plus Josh’s take on MOANA 2 and Adam on the new political thriller from Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof, THE SEED OF THE SACRED FIG.

This episode is presented by Regal Unlimited, the all-you-can-watch movie subscription pass that pays for itself in just two visits.

(Timecodes will not be precise with ads; chapters may start early.)

Opening (00:00:00-00:02:49)

MUBI's Box Office Poison (00:03:34-00:09:45)

Review: “Gladiator II” (00:09:46-00:43:14)

Next Week, Notes (00:43:14-00:46:19)

Polls (00:46:20-00:54:34)

Review (JL): “Moana 2” (00:54:35-00:57:54)

Review (AK): “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” (00:57:55-01:05:42)

Notes/Links:

MUBI Podcast

https://mubi.com/en/notebook/posts/author/842