Revealing the Truth: A Gladiator 2 Star Exposes the Dark Side of Superhero Actor Diets & Workouts

Summary

Paul Mescal discusses his physical preparation for Gladiator 2, calling out superhero actors for lying about their diets and workouts.

Mescal highlights the distinction between Russell Crowe's physical appearance in Gladiator and the actors in superhero films, asserting that Maximus' physique is shaped by his character. Mescal hints that his appearance in Gladiator 2 will mirror Crowe's in the first movie, showcasing the demanding and rigorous life of his character.

Addressing his physical preparation for the role, Gladiator 2 star Paul Mescal takes a swipe at superhero actors for dishonesty regarding their diets and workouts. The highly anticipated sequel, helmed once again by director Ridley Scott, carries on the narrative of the acclaimed 2000 sword-and-sandal epic featuring Russell Crowe. In the upcoming film, Mescal portrays the character Lucius, and previews of his intensive training for the role have already been unveiled in videos. While fans eagerly await the film's release in 2024, Mescal delves into his preparation for Gladiator 2 in a recent interview with Esquire UK, conducted prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike.

The actor discusses Crowe's physical appearance in the original movie and contrasts it with that of a superhero film, subtly criticizing the latter. See Mescal's complete statement below:

"It goes without saying that portraying a gladiator necessitates being in good shape and having strength. However, I feel that Gladiator is distinct in that it is not simply a superhero film where a significant aspect is bulking up. In this film, Russell had to embody strength because it was integral to his character."

There are definitely more intriguing questions and discussions to explore when it comes to films like this, rather than focusing on trivial matters like calorie consumption. Personally, I strongly believe that anyone claiming to have consumed 7,000 calories in a day is being dishonest.

However, this experience has been truly fascinating. It's a new endeavor for me, but I genuinely enjoy working with my trainer. There's something addictive about it. Undoubtedly, it's a challenge I embrace wholeheartedly.

Mescal's Gladiator 2 Physique Comments Explained

Mescal's comments on Crowe and superhero movies imply that different physiques suit different roles. In the 2000 original film, Crowe's physical capability was crucial not only due to the demands of the role, but also because his character, Maximus, is a former Roman general turned slave fighter.

Crowe needed to have the physique of a battle-hardened warrior to convincingly defeat his adversaries in the gladiator coliseums. Maximus' physique is essential to his soldier lifestyle, where survival depends on constant fighting. In contrast, superheroes are often portrayed as highly muscular and toned, as that is what audiences typically expect and how they are depicted in comics.

Crowe's appearance in Gladiator diverged from the typical portrayal of superheroes as perfectly sculpted beings, instead showcasing a physique forged by the rigorous and punishing lifestyle depicted in the film. This stands in contrast to superhero movies where actors often attain a level of muscularity that may potentially hinder realistic combat. Both approaches have their merits without being inherently superior or inferior. Nonetheless, Mescal's recent remarks strongly indicate that his physicality in Gladiator 2 will evoke memories of the original film.