Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger face big challenges in the upcoming movie Gladiator II. They must portray real-life Roman emperor brothers Geta and Caracalla, following Joaquin Phoenix’s acclaimed role in the original film. But rather than try to mimic Phoenix’s performance, the actors sought inspiration elsewhere.

In an interview with Empire magazine, Quinn said he and Hechinger wanted to “create something distinct” and avoid copying Phoenix. Instead of looking primarily to the original Gladiator, they studied other memorable villainous portrayals. Quinn admired Gary Oldman’s energy as the villain in The Fifth Element. Both actors also drew inspiration from Philip Seymour Hoffman’s ruthless character in Mission: Impossible III.

Hechinger shared with Games Radar that punk icon Sid Vicious unexpectedly influenced their preparations. “We talked a lot about Sid Vicious and unexpected influences that could help make the characters wild and liberating,” he said. Director Ridley Scott provided...