Christopher Nolan is practically a genre of his own. The director has made us question time, dreams, and even reality itself. His movies are so filled with twists and mind-bending ideas that even the simplest plot summaries sound like riddles.
But while we’ve spent years obsessing over his films, have you ever wondered what he likes to watch when he’s not making cinematic history? Let’s be honest, the man probably doesn’t binge-watch reality TV or cozy up with rom-coms.
No, his taste must be just as sharp, layered, and epic as the movies he creates. And every year, when Nolan reveals his favorite movie, it feels like a peek inside his mysterious mind. In 2024, his pick isn’t what you might expect, but it’s totally on-brand for a director who thrives on spectacle, deep emotions, and stories that make you think.
It’s a movie that has action, drama, and a big, bold message wrapped in stunning visuals. If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re missing out. Curious? Good. Because we’re about to reveal the film that blew Nolan’s mind in 2024.
Christopher Nolan’s favourite movie of 2024 is a Ridley Scott drama
Christopher Nolan recently shared his favorite film of the year in an article by Variety. His pick? Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II. This long-awaited sequel continues the story of Lucius, the grandson of Marcus Aurelius, played by Paul Mescal.
After Roman soldiers led by General Acacius (Pedro Pascal) attack his town, Lucius is forced into slavery and becomes a gladiator. Helping him along the way is Macrinus, played by Denzel Washington, a former gladiator with his own plans to overthrow the cruel Roman emperors.
The film dives into themes of power, survival, and rebellion, all while delivering epic gladiator battles. Critics love it (see Rotten Tomatoes reviews), fans love it, and so does Nolan.
Here’s what Christopher Nolan loved about Gladiator II
Christopher Nolan loves how Gladiator II builds on the emotional heart of the original. It doesn’t just feel like a sequel—it feels like a natural continuation. Nolan was especially impressed by Ridley Scott’s ability to blend thrilling action with deeper themes. As the Interstellar filmmaker put it (according to the same outlet):
Scott raises the game with the staging of his action — his incredible, hyper-observant, multi-camera mise-en-scène (so different to the original) masterfully wrestles the action into clear and jaw-dropping sequence after sequence.
One of Nolan’s favorite moments is the opening scene. Paul Mescal’s hand brushing through the wheat is a subtle yet powerful nod to the first movie. For Nolan, it’s the perfect way to set the tone. It feels nostalgic but also looks ahead—just what a great sequel should do.
Nolan also praised Scott’s visual storytelling. From the epic gladiator battles to the intricate set designs, every frame in Gladiator II has a purpose. Nolan believes Ridley Scott is a master at using visuals to push the story forward and connect with the audience.
Gladiator II hits digital streaming on Tuesday, Dec. 24! You can watch it on Prime Video, AppleTV, and VUDU!
Frequently asked questions
What did Christopher Nolan say was his favorite movie of 2024?
According to the article, Christopher Nolan picked Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II as his favorite film of 2024. Nolan praised Scott’s handling of the action, describing his hyper-observant, multi-camera mise-en-scene as raising the game to deliver jaw-dropping sequences, and singled out the opening wheat-field moment, where Paul Mescal’s hand brushes through the grain, as a meaningful callback to the original Gladiator.
Who directed and stars in Gladiator II?
Gladiator II was directed by Ridley Scott and distributed by Paramount Pictures. It stars Paul Mescal as Lucius, Pedro Pascal as Roman general Marcus Acacius, and Denzel Washington as Macrinus, a wealthy Roman power broker who keeps a stable of gladiators. The cast also includes Connie Nielsen, Joseph Quinn, and Fred Hechinger.
What is Gladiator II about?
The film follows Lucius, a grandson of the late emperor Marcus Aurelius, who is enslaved and forced into the gladiatorial arena after Roman soldiers attack his home. Macrinus takes him on while pursuing his own scheme for power over Rome’s twin emperors, building a story of survival, vengeance, and rebellion staged around large-scale arena battles.
