Ancient Rome Adventure Films Collection

Description: Set in Nero's Rome, this film depicts the persecution of Christians and the love story between a Roman patrician and a Christian slave. It's included for its historical depiction of Roman decadence and early Christianity.

Fact: The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards, winning for Best Costume Design.

Description: A tale of revenge, redemption, and faith, "Ben-Hur" features one of the most famous chariot races in cinema history. It's included for its depiction of Roman rule in Judea and the interaction between Romans and Jews.

Fact: The chariot race scene took three months to film, and the film holds the record for the most Academy Awards won by a single film, with 11 Oscars.

Description: This film tells the story of Spartacus, a Thracian gladiator who leads a slave revolt against the Roman Republic. It's a must-watch for its portrayal of the struggle against Roman oppression.

Fact: The film was one of the first to credit the screenwriter, Dalton Trumbo, who had been blacklisted during the McCarthy era. Kirk Douglas played the titular role.

Description: This epic film explores the decline of Rome through the eyes of its leaders and citizens, focusing on the political intrigue and military campaigns that led to its downfall.

Fact: The film was one of the most expensive of its time, with a budget of $20 million, equivalent to about $170 million today.

Description: This epic historical drama follows Maximus Decimus Meridius, a Roman general betrayed by the emperor's son, who becomes a gladiator to seek revenge. Its inclusion in this list is due to its detailed portrayal of Roman society, politics, and the gladiatorial games.

Fact: The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Russell Crowe's character, Maximus, was inspired by real-life figures like Spartacus and Marcus Nonius Macrinus.

Description: Set in the final days of the Roman Empire, this film follows a young boy, the last heir to the Roman throne, and his protectors. It's included for its depiction of the fall of Rome and the transition to the Dark Ages.

Fact: The film features a blend of historical fiction with elements from the Arthurian legend, suggesting that the last Roman emperor might have influenced the legend of King Arthur.

Description: This film recounts the story of the Ninth Legion, which mysteriously disappeared in the north of Britain. It's a gritty, action-packed adventure that delves into the Roman military's harsh realities.

Fact: The film was shot in Scotland, with the director Neil Marshall aiming to capture the brutal essence of Roman frontier life.

Description: Set in Roman Britain, this film follows a young Roman officer's quest to recover the lost Roman eagle standard of his father's legion. It's included for its exploration of Roman military life and the clash with the native tribes.

Fact: The film is based on the novel "The Eagle of the Ninth" by Rosemary Sutcliff. The director, Kevin Macdonald, aimed for historical accuracy in depicting Roman military tactics.

Description: Although not set in Rome itself, "Pompeii" captures the Roman world through the eyes of a gladiator during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. It's included for its portrayal of Roman life and the disaster that struck one of its cities.

Fact: The film was shot in Canada, with the city of Pompeii recreated using CGI and practical sets.

Description: This film focuses on Hypatia, a philosopher in Roman Egypt, and the religious and political turmoil of the time. It's included for its portrayal of the intellectual life in the late Roman Empire.

Fact: The film was shot in Malta, with the city of Alexandria recreated to reflect the era's historical accuracy.