Paul Mescal first captured in the upcoming film “Gladiator 2”. The actor takes on the role of Lucius Verus of the Roman Empire, the adult son of Lucilla.

The 28-year-old Irish actor looked in good spirits, but any comparison to his predecessor, Russell Crowe, would probably be unfortunate.

While filming for “Gladiator 2” had originally taken place in Morocco, the new scenes were shot in England. The grounds were cleared for the battle scenes, with the actors shown charging into the field on horseback and in full armour.

As rumored for years, the sequel will focus on Lucius (Paul), Commodus’ nephew and son of Maximus’ ex-lover Lucilla (Connie Nielsen).

Denzel Washington also stars in the film as a former slave turned wealthy arms dealer who hates emperors. The cast also includes Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger. Original “Gladiator” stars Connie Nielsen (Lucilla) and Derek Jacobi (Senator Gracchus) are also expected to return.