Ridley Scott’s Gladiator 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2000 Oscar-winning original, has achieved a remarkable box office feat, securing a place among Paramount Pictures’ top 50 highest-grossing films of all time.

Currently sitting at #47 on the list, the film boasts a worldwide gross of $369.7 million, a substantial figure achieved despite facing competition from major releases like Wicked and Moana 2. This impressive total includes a domestic box office take of $134 million.

Its placement on the Paramount chart is particularly noteworthy, as it surpasses several iconic films, including Raiders of the Lost Ark ($367.5 million) and Top Gun ($357.5 million), and sits just below Captain America: The First Avenger ($370.6 million). This success is even more impressive considering that the original Gladiator star, Russell Crowe, did not reprise his role in the sequel. Paul Mescal took on the lead role of Lucius, alongside a star-studded cast including Denzel Washington and Joseph Quinn.

While Gladiator 2 hasn’t quite reached the critical acclaim of its predecessor, its box office performance has clearly exceeded expectations, justifying its production for Paramount. The studio is optimistic about further box office growth during the upcoming holiday season, potentially allowing the film to climb even higher on the chart, surpassing titles such as Captain America: The First Avenger and The Adventures of Tintin. Even if it doesn’t reach the top spot (currently held by Titanic with over $2 billion worldwide), its presence in the top 50 solidifies the Gladiator franchise’s enduring appeal and profitability for Paramount.

The film’s future also looks bright beyond its theatrical run. Paramount is expected to release Gladiator 2 on its streaming platform, Paramount+, sometime in mid-January 2025 (following the typical 45-day theatrical window), which is anticipated to generate a further boost in viewership and revenue. In conclusion, despite mixed critical reception, Gladiator 2’s financial success is undeniable, marking a significant achievement for both the film and Paramount Pictures.