Gladiator 2 uses a lot of AI, and a two-ton rhino is involved: “You have to accept it”

Get ready for some “entertainment” on coming Gladiator 2Legendary director Ridley Scott returns to helm this highly anticipated sequel, bringing with him an all-star cast including Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington and Pedro Pascal, and promising lots of action in this long-awaited period action movie sequel. However, Scott’s comments about the film’s use of AI may raise some concerns. The sequel relied heavily on the use of AI, even for that massive two-ton rhino, and Scott insists we have to “accept that.”

As the highly anticipated sequel to Ridley Scott’s Oscar-winning epic approaches, The film will premiere in 2024.technology takes center stage. In a recent interview with EmpireScott discussed how advanced computing and artificial intelligence are key to bringing the sequel to life. The acclaimed director takes full advantage of the cutting-edge tools available to filmmakers today to create a spectacle that promises to push the boundaries of visual storytelling. Here’s what he had to say to the publication:

Computerization and AI—you have to accept that. I can have a computer read every molecule and wrinkle on a rhino and then cut it out on a thick piece of plastic, exactly as the rhino’s body, which is then molded to the shape of the skeleton. I have something that can go 40 miles an hour, spin around in place, shake its head and growl. A two-ton rhino with a guy on its back! I mean, that’s a lot of fun.

AI plays a key role in one of the film’s most anticipated scenes, in which Lucius comes face to face with a marauding rhino in the Colosseum. The sequence underscores not only the intensity of the narrative but also the technological advances that have transformed filmmaking since the original Gladiator enthralled audiences and became one of the best films of the 2000s. Sir Scott and his team used cutting-edge computerization and artificial intelligence to create a truly realistic rhinoceros, seamlessly combining practical effects with digital wizardry.

This epic rhino scene from the recently released film Gladiator 2 trailer, is just one example of how Gladiator 2 pushes the boundaries of epic storytelling. With a seamless blend of practical and digital effects, the Alien director creates a cinematic experience that promises to wow audiences with its scale and realism.

(Photo Source: Paramount Pictures)

The role of AI in cinema is a hot topic in the industry, especially given recent events. Hollywood recently experienced WGA Writers Strike 2023 and the SAG-AFTRA actors’ strike, where one of the main issues was how to protect creative professionals in the AI era. Despite writers and actors securing a strong new contract, a top Sony executive announced studio plans to integrate artificial intelligence into film production the process moves forward.

Apart from that, Gladiator II is set to bring a new era of power and honor to the big screen on November 22. But there is also the question of whether the use of AI will dampen the enthusiasm of fans or provoke strong reactions from other creators in the industry. Only time will tell how the general public and industry professionals will react as Ridley Scott and other filmmakers continue to use AI in their films.

One film you don’t have to worry about being affected by AI is Russell Crowe’s cult original, Gladiator. You can revisit it by streaming the film on several platforms, including Paramount+ Subscription.