Ridley Scott and Gladiator II - The Film-maker Who Sparked a Political Storm in Malta

January 03 2025 08:04:52 by PCLMedia

Ridley Scott, known for his directorial brilliance and sharp tongue, is back in the spotlight, this time for Gladiator II , the much-anticipated sequel to his 2000 Oscar-winning epic. While Scott has a history of stirring up controversy during press tours—most notably for Napoleon , where he casually criticized French people and historians alike—his recent remarks about Malta have taken center stage, igniting a political squabble on the Mediterranean island.

Ridley Scott’s Maltese Controversy

Scott, who has filmed extensively in Malta, described the island’s architecture as a "treasure trove" that spans from medieval to Renaissance eras, with moments of spectacular beauty. Yet, in an unedited version of a conversation with Christopher Nolan, Scott quipped, “I wouldn’t advise going there on holiday,” quickly adding, “No Maltese in here, are there? I would not go back there on holiday.”

These comments, while in keeping with Scott’s sharp, unfiltered style, caused a ripple effect. Malta’s shadow culture spokesperson accused the island’s film commissioner, Johann Grech, of being humiliated and called for his resignation, especially given that Gladiator II had reaped the benefits of €47 million in Maltese tax rebates.

Scott later clarified his comments, telling the Times of Malta: “I have spent so much time on the island over the years—working, exploring, enjoying, and watching it change and evolve—that I wouldn’t need to take a holiday there!” While the accuracy of this statement might be debatable, some suspect it was an effort to preserve Malta’s generous rebate scheme for future projects.

Filming Gladiator II

Gladiator II , starring Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, and Denzel Washington, is set to continue the legacy of Maximus, with a new protagonist, Lucius, the now-grown son of Lucilla, stepping into the arena. The movie promises the same grandeur and high-stakes drama that made the original iconic. Scott’s choice to return to Malta for significant portions of the sequel underscores the island’s appeal as a versatile filming location. Malta’s ancient forts, sun-drenched vistas, and historically rich architecture provide a perfect backdrop for epic battles and sweeping period dramas.

Malta: A Cinematic Treasure Trove

Despite Scott’s pointed remarks, Malta has long been a haven for filmmakers. Its unique blend of historical and natural beauty has made it a favorite for productions like Game of Thrones , Assassin’s Creed , Troy , and Scott’s own Napoleon . Notable locations include:

- Fort Ricasoli : Situated in Kalkara, this fortress has appeared in Gladiator , Gladiator II , Napoleon , and other blockbusters. Its grand walls and dramatic views make it a natural choice for historical epics.
- Mdina : Known as the Silent City, this fortified town has served as a stand-in for various medieval and ancient cities. - Popeye Village : Originally built as a set for the 1980 film Popeye , this whimsical village now serves as a tourist attraction complete with a miniature golf course and a Robin Williams shrine.

The Future of Film Tourism in Malta

Malta’s tourism board highlights its status as a filming hotspot, but perhaps it should embrace Scott’s controversies as part of its charm. Imagine an official Ridley Scott audio tour where the director candidly critiques local restaurants or vents about Gozo’s terrain. Such a venture might transform his biting commentary into a draw for fans of his films and personality alike.

While Scott’s comments may have stirred the pot, they also shine a light on Malta’s incredible contributions to cinema. Whether you’re a tourist or a cinephile, the island remains a compelling destination—a place where history, storytelling, and controversy converge.