One scene involves Maximus and Marcus speaking about Rome, as well as the former’s home.

Despite Maximus' wholehearted denial of this position, he eventually begins fighting for Marcus Aurelius' dream.

Was The Dream Of Rome Real Or Made Up For The Movie?

Gladiator II Official Poster

That said, the idea of Rome actually becoming a republic once more is fictional.

The following section contains spoilers for Gladiator 2.

A blurred image of Rome from Gladiator (2000) behind Russell Crowe as Maximus from the film and Paul Mescal as Lucius from Gladiator 2 (2024)

Custom Image by Lewis Glazebrook

Richard Harris wearing a hooded robe as Marcus Aurelius next to Russell Crowe as Maximus in the poster for Gladiator (2000)

Custom Image by Lewis Glazebrook

Triumphant gladiators entering the city of Rome in Gladiator II

Image via Paramount Pictures

Russell Crowe hated gladiators best line

Paul Mescal as Lucius with a purple sky behind him in the Colosseum in Gladiator 2

Spencer Treat Clark as Lucius Verus in Gladiator next to Paul Mescal as Lucius Verus holding a sword in Gladiator 2

Headshot Of Paul Mescal In The 77th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs)

Headshot Of Pedro Pascal In The 30th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards

Movies

Gladiator II

Gladiator