Not to be missed: the best movies about the Roman Empire

Ancient Rome left behind a rich cultural, political, and architectural heritage that has captured the imagination of artists, historians, and filmmakers for centuries. Dynamic stories of gladiatorial exploits, political intrigue, and bloody wars have been embodied in many films.

Such films illustrate the complex fates of the heroes who opposed the cruel Roman laws and the imperial order. OBOZ.UA offers the best films that will not only take viewers back to the times of the Roman Empire, but also give them a unique cinematic experience.

Spartacus (1960)

The film tells the story of the slave uprising led by the Thracian Spartacus, demonstrating the resilience and will to freedom. Becoming a symbol of resistance to Rome, Spartacus gathered a powerful army of slaves and challenged the empire. This movie is not only impressive in scale, but also leaves a strong emotional impression.

Gladiator (2000)

Gladiator stands out among the cult films about the Roman Empire. Director Ridley Scott tells the story of Maximus, a general who, having lost everything, becomes a slave and a gladiator. The film won five Oscars for its drama and skillful depiction of the ancient world and was ranked in the top 250 on IMDb. In November 2024, the second part is expected to premiere, which is already generating considerable interest among viewers.

Ben-Hur (1959)

The legendary film, which has won 11 Academy Awards, tells the story of the aristocrat Judah Ben-Hur, who was betrayed and turned into a slave. The dramatic story of the struggle for freedom still remains a model of classic cinema, and the chariot racing scenes inspire modern filmmakers.

The Eagle (2011)

The Eagle tells the story of a young centurion's journey to Britain, where he seeks to find traces of the missing Ninth Legion. Despite mixed reviews, the film is an interesting adventure interpretation of one of the legendary Roman myths.

Another interesting work was the Italian film IL PRIMO RE, 2019. This is the story of the brothers Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome, which immerses viewers in the primitive world, which truly inspires them to think about the beginnings of a great empire.

The complex period of the Roman Empire's decline is depicted in The Fall of the Roman Empire (1964). The film covers the military campaigns of Emperor Marcus Aurelius and the political intrigues that eventually led to the decline of the great state.

The catastrophic drama Pompeii (2014) describes the tragic fate of the inhabitants of the city destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Despite some historical inaccuracies, the film shows human stories and the terrible power of nature that swallowed the whole city.

Imperium: Augustus, 2003

The film illustrates the political struggle for power in Rome after the death of Julius Caesar. The story of the young Octavius, whom Caesar declared his heir, explores the complex relationships and ambitions of Roman leaders.

The historical thriller Centurion (2010) highlights the drama of the legendary Ninth Legion, which embarks on a dangerous expedition to northern Britain. Although the film was not a great success at the box office, it demonstrates the courage of Roman soldiers in the face of the enemy.

These films allow viewers to delve into the atmosphere of ancient Rome and better understand its history.

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