Connie Nielsen's long and significant career has included some of the best movies of the past several decades, including the iconic Ridley Scott film Gladiator. Though it can be difficult for an actor to be known for such a specific role in a period film, this hasn't stopped Nielsen from broadening her horizons and taking on projects within many different genres. From strong and fearsome heroines to tender love interests, Nielsen has never been afraid to be a part of unexpected works that polarize audiences. However, this is likely how she developed her skills as a formidable actress.

Nielsen knows Lucilla's influence in Gladiator II and has been open about discussing the roles that women play in male-dominated works like the Gladiator franchise. However, it's not only in action blockbusters that Nielsen has brought this reflective perspective to the forefront of her work. Gladiator isn't the only cinematic universe she's been a part of,...