- Carry On Cleo (1964)
- A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (1966)
- The Emperor's New Groove (2000)
- Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra (2002)
- The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
- The Decameron (1971)
- History of the World, Part I (1981)
- Up Pompeii (1971)
- Monty Python's Life of Brian (1979)
- The Twelve Tasks of Asterix (1976)
The Roman Empire, with its grand history and epic tales, often serves as a backdrop for dramatic and historical films. However, it also provides a rich setting for comedy, offering a unique blend of satire, slapstick, and clever wit. This collection of ten comedy films set in or inspired by ancient Rome showcases the lighter, humorous side of this iconic era. From mistaken identities to political satire, these films provide both entertainment and a playful glimpse into Roman life, making them a delightful watch for anyone interested in history with a humorous twist.

Carry On Cleo (1964)
Description: This British comedy film parodies the epic film "Cleopatra" and features the misadventures of a British slave who gets mistaken for a famous gladiator.
Fact: The film was shot at the same time as the more serious "Cleopatra" film, leading to some amusing behind-the-scenes stories.


A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (1966)
Description: Based on the Broadway musical, this film follows a Roman slave who schemes to win his freedom by helping his master woo a courtesan.
Fact: The film's title comes from a line in the play "Miles Gloriosus" by Plautus, reflecting its ancient Roman inspiration.


The Emperor's New Groove (2000)
Description: Although not set in Rome, this Disney animation has a Roman-inspired setting with its Inca Empire, featuring a self-centered emperor turned into a llama.
Fact: The film was initially conceived as a more serious drama but was transformed into a comedy during development.


Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra (2002)
Description: Although not set in Rome, this French comedy involves the Roman Empire as Asterix and Obelix help Cleopatra prove her greatness by building a palace in record time.
Fact: The film was a box office success in France and features a mix of French and English actors.


The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Description: While not directly about Rome, Walter's daydreams include a sequence where he imagines himself as a Roman gladiator, adding a comedic twist to the film.
Fact: The film includes a homage to the original 1947 film, with a brief appearance by the original Walter Mitty's actor, Danny Kaye.


The Decameron (1971)
Description: While not strictly about Rome, this film by Pier Paolo Pasolini includes tales set in the medieval period, with some stories reflecting Roman themes and humor.
Fact: The film is part of Pasolini's "Trilogy of Life," which also includes "The Canterbury Tales" and "Arabian Nights."


History of the World, Part I (1981)
Description: Mel Brooks' comedic take on history includes a segment on the Roman Empire, where he plays a stand-up philosopher in ancient Rome.
Fact: The film features multiple historical parodies, with the Roman segment being one of the highlights.


Up Pompeii (1971)
Description: Set in the days before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, this film follows the adventures of Lurcio, a Roman slave, in a series of comedic misadventures.
Fact: The film was adapted from a successful British TV series of the same name.


Monty Python's Life of Brian (1979)
Description: This satirical film follows the life of Brian Cohen, a man born on the same day as Jesus Christ, leading to numerous comedic misunderstandings.
Fact: Despite its controversial reception, it has been hailed as one of the greatest comedies of all time.


The Twelve Tasks of Asterix (1976)
Description: Asterix and Obelix are sent on twelve seemingly impossible tasks by Julius Caesar to prove they are not gods, providing plenty of laughs along the way.
Fact: The film was adapted into an English version with the voices of notable British actors.
