Nothing is known exactly what the plot will be, but rumors say it will be both a prequel and a sequel to the original blockbuster film (think GODFATHER II). The prequel part would center on the younger years of such characters as Proximo (originally played by the late Oliver Reed), Maximus (Russell Crowe) and Emperor Marcus Aurelius (originally played by the late Richard Harris). The sequel would follow the grown Lucius, who is the only rightful heir to Marcus Aurelius.