The epic historical drama Rome, a joint venture between the BBC and HBO, has been hailed as "one of the greatest TV shows of all time" and is available to stream on Prime Video. The series, which aired for two seasons from 2005 to 2007, earned widespread praise for its outstanding performances, historical authenticity, and compelling storytelling.
Plot and Setting
The series portrays the politically turbulent and frequently savage realm of the Roman Empire during the first century BC, while also tracking fictionalised accounts of two actual Roman legionaries - Lucius Vorenus, portrayed by Kevin McKidd, and Titus Pullo, portrayed by Ray Stevenson.
The opening series unfolds during Julius Caesar's rule, spanning from 49 BC, when the Roman Empire was consumed by civil conflict, through to his murder in 44 BC. The second chronicles the power battles in the years after Caesar's demise.
Cast and Accolades
Additional recognisable actors featuring in the series include Ciaran Hinds, taking on Julius Caesar, and Indira Varma, depicting Niobe, spouse of Lucius Vorenus - both subsequently securing major parts in Game of Thrones. Tobias Menzies, from The Crown, also portrays a fictionalised account of Julius Caesar's killer Marcus Junius Brutus, while Better Call Saul's Kerry Condon plays Octavia of the Julii, sibling of Emperor Augustus.
The programme garnered critical acclaim during its original broadcast and secured numerous accolades, including Emmy Awards for special effects, costumes and hair styling.
Critical Reception
While the show's creators had envisaged five series - culminating with the appearance of Jesus in the Holy Land - the production was terminated following its second series, with substantial production expenses given as the justification for its cancellation.
Both series boast impressive 96 per cent scores on the film and television review platform Rotten Tomatoes, with viewers commending the performances and historical authenticity. One remarked: "One of the greatest TV shows of all time. Casting was extremely strong. Would recommend to anyone who loves drama and history."
Another commented: "The best representation of Rome in a visual medium. While other films such as Kubrick's Spartacus had left me with a similar taste, Rome brings together the historical accuracy in many respects, social, political, economic, and military, reflecting the state of Roman society during the final years of the Republic."
A further viewer stated: "This was one of the most exciting and historically interesting series on HBO. It was a shame that it only lasted two seasons. This look at the rise and fall of Julius Caesar during the Roman Empire was so interesting, historically accurate, and attended to details. The series was framed as being seen through the eyes of two Roman Centurians mentioned in a speech of Julius Casear in real life is engaging from moment one. It is also filled with explicit sex and violence. The direction and cinematography are worthy of any motion picture. The costumes are wonderful. The acting is top-notch by the lead and supporting cast. This is how historical series should be done. One criticism - choice of actress playing Cleopatra."
Mixed Reactions
However, others took issue with the programme's levels of sex and violence, with one viewer stating: "Too many pointless sex scenes. We aren't shocked or even titillated anymore because we're bombarded with them. Very bland and predictable characters. Nobody stood out as great. More like a soap opera rather than an epic story." Another commented: "Too graphic. The violence and sex add nothing to the story."
Nevertheless, negative reviews remain relatively scarce, with one enthusiast declaring: "Arguably one of HBO's greatest shows. The acting is superb and the writing fantastic. Blending historic figures and settings with the fictional tale of two Roman soldiers, this show is captivating from beginning to end." A further admirer remarked: "Quite possibly the best TV series ever created! I say 'possibly' because of Breaking Bad. Neither will be bettered in a very long time!"
Both seasons of Rome can be purchased on Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and YouTube.
