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The similarities don’t end at personal tragedies; Lucius’ journey mirrors Maximus’ plight with striking imagery and sequences. Captured and enslaved, Lucius helps the leader echoing the bond between Maximus and Juba. However, unlike their profound friendship, Lucius experiences a cruel twist: his friend is killed early on, emphasizing the harsh and volatile nature of gladiatorial life.
Scott cleverly intertwines references to the mythology of the past with scenes of battle, like the appearance of a rhino in the arena—dreams that have finally come to fruition due to advancements in technology. Lucius’ physical gestures connect him back to Maximus, as he tries to channel the great gladiator he idolized, establishing a nostalgic connection that runs deep.