Family Films About Ancient Rome

Description: Set during the reign of Nero, this film depicts the persecution of Christians in Rome and the love story between a Roman officer and a Christian girl. It's a historical epic with themes of faith and love.

Fact: The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards and won for Best Art Direction and Best Costume Design.

Description: This film follows the life of a Roman tribune who is haunted by his role in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It's a story of conversion and redemption, suitable for family viewing with its moral lessons.

Fact: "The Robe" was the first film to be released in the widescreen format CinemaScope, revolutionizing the film industry.

Description: This classic epic, while not exclusively about Rome, features significant Roman elements, including the famous chariot race. It's a story of friendship, betrayal, and redemption, suitable for family viewing with its themes of forgiveness and justice.

Fact: The chariot race scene took three months to film and was one of the most expensive sequences ever shot at the time. The film won 11 Academy Awards, a record at the time.

Description: This epic film about the slave revolt led by Spartacus against the Roman Republic is a tale of courage and freedom. While it has some mature themes, it's a powerful story of human spirit and resistance.

Fact: The film was directed by Stanley Kubrick and features a famous scene where the slaves chant "I am Spartacus" to protect their leader's identity.

Description: This epic drama explores the decline of Rome, focusing on the political intrigue and the personal struggles of its leaders. It's an educational and dramatic portrayal of the end of an era.

Fact: The film was one of the most expensive of its time, with a budget of $19 million, equivalent to about $170 million today.

Description: Although not strictly a family film due to its violence, "Gladiator" offers a sweeping epic tale of revenge and redemption set in the Roman Empire, which can be appreciated by older children and adults for its historical context and grandeur.

Fact: The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Russell Crowe's portrayal of Maximus was critically acclaimed, and the film's depiction of the Colosseum was meticulously recreated.

Description: This film, while not directly about Rome, features the Roman Empire as the antagonist, providing a humorous take on Roman-Egyptian relations. It's a delightful adventure that showcases the wit and resilience of the Gauls against Roman oppression.

Fact: The film was a massive hit in France, becoming one of the highest-grossing French films ever. It also features a cameo by Gerard Depardieu, who played Obelix in previous adaptations.

Description: This film tells the story of the last Roman emperor and his quest to reclaim his throne, blending historical fiction with elements of Arthurian legend. It's an action-packed adventure suitable for family viewing.

Fact: The film was shot in several locations including Slovakia, Tunisia, and Italy, providing a rich visual tapestry of the Roman world.

Description: Set during the Roman conquest of Britain, this film follows a Roman centurion's journey to survive and return home after his legion is decimated. It's a gritty, action-filled adventure with historical undertones.

Fact: The film was inspired by the legend of the Ninth Legion, which mysteriously disappeared in Britain.

Description: Set in Roman Britain, this film follows a young Roman officer's quest to restore his family's honor by recovering the lost eagle standard of his father's legion. It's an engaging story of duty, honor, and the clash of cultures.

Fact: The film was shot in Scotland, which provided a stunning backdrop for the Roman frontier. It also features a unique portrayal of the relationship between Romans and the native Britons.