Where to stream Gladiator for free ahead of sequel starring Paul Mescal

Ahead of Gladiator 2's big release next month, fans of the original film Gladiator will be pleased to know that it's available to stream online for free.

The classic movie, which released in 2000 and starred Russell Crowe, is now streaming on ITVX meaning fans can watch it before the sequel releases. ITVX doesn't require any subscription fee but does ask for viewers to register to the streaming platform in order to use it.

Russell played Maximus Decimus Meridius, an Hispano-Roman general forced into slavery, who seeks revenge against Emperor Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix) for the murder of his family and the previous emperor.

Maximus becomes a gladiator and rises through the ranks of the arena, taking on plenty of opponents in blood-filled duels. As well as Russell and Joaquin, the film also stars Connie Nielsen, Oliver Reed, Derek Jacobi, Djimon Hounsou, Richard Harris and Ralf Moller.

At the time of the release of the Ridley Scott movie, nearly a quarter of a century ago, it grossed $465.4 million worldwide, making it the second highest-grossing film of that year, behind Mission: Impossible 2.

The film also garnered plenty of critical acclaim with the acting, direction, cinematography, production design and musical score all singled out for praise by critics.

It went on to win five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Costume Design and Best Actor for Russell.

It was produced by DreamWorks Pictures as well as Universal Pictures, Scott Free Productions and Red Wagon Entertainment.

Paul Mescal is headlining the second instalment as a grown up Lucius Verus, the son of Maximus.

The movie is set years after the original and will see Lucius step into the arena as a gladiator after his home is invaded by the Roman army, led by General Marcus Acacius, during the reign of the co-emperors Caracalla and Geta.

It also stars an incredible ensemble cast of actors including Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger.

Connie and Derek have reprised their roles from the first part, as Lucius' mother Lucilla and Senator Gracchus respectively.

Gladiator is available to stream on ITVX now. Gladiator 2 releases in UK cinemas on November 15.