Contents
The history of the Roman Empire spanned several centuries. This is an interesting and unusual time during which many emperors have changed. During the years of its existence, the Roman Empire participated in many different wars and annexed vast territories. It was unusually large and technologically advanced. We still use the rafts of the famous Roman culture.
The best films about gladiators and the Roman Empire will help you at least superficially get acquainted with its history, as well as tell you about outstanding commanders, emperors, and, no less important, have an interesting time watching the exploits of the heroes of the past. Introducing the top 10 list.
10 Fall of the Roman Empire (1964)
A classic Hollywood peplum directed by Anthony Mann, it tells the story of the decline of the Roman Empire. At this time, it is ruled by Marcus Aurelius, on whom many problems have fallen: the attack of the Germanic tribes and the complex political struggle. The emperor plans to make Gaius Metellus Livy the heir, which his own son Commodus does not like, he is not ready to give up the throne just like that and achieves his goal. But the situation in the Roman Empire is changing dramatically, and for the worse.
“The Fall of the Roman Empire” is an educational film, it will appeal to those who are not indifferent to costume melodramas. It also has its own romantic love story. It can be watched by the whole family, including with children, because. no scenes of violence.
9. Alexander (2004)
A historical film about the life and death of Alexander the Great, directed by Oliver Stone. Starring Colin Farrell and Angelina Jolie. The Americans did not appreciate this film, it failed at the box office, collecting only 34 million dollars with a budget of 150 million. In 2005, it was nominated for 6 Golden Raspberry anti-awards, including as the worst film. But in other countries, he fell in love and earned $ 130 million.
Our compatriots liked the film “Alexander”. They write that he has an excellent script, the actors perfectly played their roles. Wonderful battle scenes, ingenious monologues, the life of a great man is perfectly shown, with his mistakes and cruelty, and at the same time nobility.
8. Spartacus (1960)
Peplum directed by Stanley Kubrick and based on the novel by Howard Fast. It was the film “Spartacus” that made a name for the young director. He tells of an uprising led by a gladiator slave named Spartacus. At that time it was one of the most expensive paintings with a budget of 12 million dollars. Initially, it was met with restraint, critics did not like the script (it was rewritten several times) and the poor performance of the actors. But still, she was appreciated, because. awarded 4 “Oscars”, “Golden Globe” and other prestigious awards.
Viewers note that the painting “Spartacus” has a great plot that is intriguing. Many liked Kirk Douglas in the title role, he was able to portray the leader of the rebels, who turned out to be domineering, strong, but fair. The film cannot be called historically accurate, but, nevertheless, it is good, just as a story about a man who dreamed of becoming free himself and freeing others, and is ready to give his life for this.
7. Rome (TV series 2005 – 2007)
Historical drama series produced for BBC, HBO, RAI, ie. with the participation of the UK, USA and Italy. Filming was carried out in the vicinity of Rome, where many of the scenery of the ancient capital was recreated. Initially, they wanted to shoot a mini-series, but then it was decided to start shooting a full-fledged series.
He talks about 52 BC, when Gaius Julius Caesar is preparing to return to Rome after an 8-year war. But this does not please the patricians, whose well-being is now in question. Viewers note that the series “Rome” is an interesting film based on historical events. Do not forget that this is a feature film, so historical inaccuracies are acceptable. The life of ancient Rome, its atmosphere is perfectly conveyed, good actors are selected. Due to the abundance of erotica and rather realistic scenes of violence, you should not show the series to children, the rest should watch it, because. it leaves a lasting impression.
6. 300 Spartans (2007)
Peplum directed by Zack Snyder and based on a 1998 comic book about a battle between 300 Spartans under the command of King Leonidas and a huge Persian army. This is a rather loose interpretation of real events that took place in the 300th century BC. The millionth army of the Persian king Xerxes invades Greece and demands complete submission. King Leonid, with the help of his friend, gathers an army of 300 warriors and goes on a campaign. How it ended, you will find out by watching the movie “XNUMX Spartans”.
Viewers write that if we consider the picture as an adaptation of a comic book, it is magnificent. This is not quite a historical movie, but rather an interesting fairy tale. But it was filmed simply superbly, the effect of presence was created, as if you become a participant in the events. It turned out not only a beautiful, but also an exciting film, with perfect costumes, makeup, actors.
5. Ben-Hur (1959)
Peplum, filmed by director William Wyler based on biblical motives. Based on the novel “Ben Hur” by American writer William Wyler. The film was able to win an Oscar in 11 nominations. At the moment, only 2 films have been able to repeat his success: “Titanic” and “Lord of the Rings”. In addition to the Oscars, he earned 4 Golden Globes.
Everything takes place in 26 AD. Jew Ben-Hur meets his childhood friend Messala, who became a Roman tribune. Once they were very close, but now they quarreled on ideological grounds. Ben-Hur is exiled to the galleys, and his mother and sister are locked up in a dungeon. Viewers write that the film “Ben-Hur” is interesting, large-scale, when you watch it, it is impossible to tear yourself away from the screen, and this applies to everyone, and not just fans of historical cinema.
It is called an amazing film in every way, which you will definitely remember. This epic picture is universal for any time, with beautiful landscapes, scenery, and memorable scenes.
4. Braveheart (1995)
The historical film “Braveheart” tells the story of Scotland’s struggle for independence. It was directed, produced and starred by Mel Gibson. It was nominated for 10 Oscars and was able to win 5 of them, including becoming the best film of 1995. The picture tells about 1280.
The main character, William Wallace, lost his father early, he was killed by the British. The boy’s uncle took care of him, sending him to study in Europe. Returning to his homeland, he dreamed of leading a calm, peaceful life, starting a family. But everything did not turn out the way he wanted, William had to start fighting the British. “Braveheart”, according to the audience, is a wonderful film with magnificent battle scenes, beautiful landscapes. They write that he is good from the first to the last frames, takes the soul and should please everyone, especially men.
3. Troy (2004)
A historical drama filmed by director Wolfgang Peterson (who was also one of the film’s producers) based on the poem The Iliad. One of the main roles was played by Brad Pitt. The film “Troy” tells about 1193 BC. Helena, the wife of King Menelaus, was stolen by Paris. For the honor of the ruler, his brother, King Agamemnon, decided to stand up. He sent his army, which was led by Achilles. For 10 years the city was under siege.
The audience writes that it turned out to be a bright, interesting fairy tale, which also has its own love line. Acting, music – all at the highest level. “Troy” has become a classic of historical cinema, which can be reviewed many times.
2. Spartacus: Gods of the Arena (TV series 2010)
The mini-series “Spartacus: Gods of the Arena” is a prequel to “Spartacus”. We see the whole path of the formation of Batiatus. He did not want to take his father’s place, but he had to manage Batiatus’ crowbar. With their beautiful and treacherous wife named Lucrezia, they will forever remain in history. Viewers note that scenes of sword fights and hand-to-hand combat, as well as an abundance of erotica, will not make you bored, passion, intrigue, lust, blood – all this is enough.
1. Gladiator (2000)
Ridley Scott’s historical film “Gladiator” won 5 Oscars and many other prestigious awards. Russell Crowe played the lead role. He talks about the best commander of the Roman Empire, General Maximus. Because of the intrigues of enemies and envious people, he was sentenced to death, but was able to avoid death, and became a gladiator. Once at the Roman Colosseum, he met in mortal combat with his enemy.
The audience calls “Gladiator” a masterpiece, a very strong movie that teaches you to love your neighbor and not to give up, no matter how hard it is.