Films About the Roman Army
The Roman Army has long captured the imagination of filmmakers and audiences alike, evoking images of grandeur, the expanse of the Roman Empire, and the intricate politics of war. Often set in periods of significant historical events or embodying legendary tales of heroism, betrayal, and strategy, films about the Roman Army portray the might, tactics, and the life of soldiers and leaders who shaped an era that has profoundly influenced Western culture. These films range from epic battles, detailed day-to-day life within the ranks, to the strategic maneuvers that expanded or defended the empire. Here is a selection of films that bring to life the stories of the Roman Army:
“Centurion”, 2009
Director: Neil Marshall
This action-adventure film directed by Neil Marshall is set during the Roman invasion of Britain. It tells the story of a Roman centurion named Quintus Dias who is the sole survivor of a Pictish raid on a Roman frontier fort and joins the legendary Ninth Legion in their march north to wipe out the Picts.
Starring: Michael Fassbender, Dominic West, Noel Clarke, David Morrissey, JJ Feild, Dimitri Leonidas, Riz Ahmed, Paul Freeman, Axelle Carolyn;
Production year: 2009;
Genre: action, thriller, drama, adventure, war, history;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 97 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,3;
“The Eagle”, 2010
Director: Kevin Macdonald
Directed by Kevin Macdonald, “The Eagle” is an adventure film based on the 1954 historical adventure novel “The Eagle of the Ninth” by Rosemary Sutcliff. The film is set in Roman Britain in the 2nd century AD, twenty years after the unexplained disappearance of the entire Ninth Legion in the mountains of Scotland. It follows a young Roman officer who endeavors to uncover the truth about his father's legion and restore the honor of his family.
Starring: Channing Tatum, Jamie Bell, Donald Sutherland, Mark Strong, Dakin Matthews, István Göz, Bence Gerö, Denis O'Hare, Paul Ritter, Zsolt László;
Production year: 2010;
Genre: drama, history;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 114 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,2;
“Ben-Hur”, 2016
Director:
Directed by William Wyler, this epic historical drama is known for its massive scale and the famous chariot race scene. While not centered around the Roman Army, the film is set in the Roman Empire and portrays the life and times under Roman rule, with significant moments involving Roman soldiers and the protagonist's interactions with them, illustrating the influence and presence of the military in the empire.
Starring: Jack Huston, Toby Kebbell, Rodrigo Santoro, Nazanin Boniadi, Ayelet Zurer, Pilou Asbæk, Sofia Black-D'Elia, Morgan Freeman, Marwan Kenzari, Moises Arias;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: action, drama, melodrama, adventure;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 123 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,7;
More information about the film “Ben-Hur” on the website imdb.com
“Spartacus”, 1960
Director: Stanley Kubrick, Anthony Mann
Directed by Stanley Kubrick, this epic historical drama tells the story of Spartacus, the slave and gladiator who led a massive slave uprising against the Roman Republic. While focusing on Spartacus and his journey, the film also showcases the Roman legions' tactics, battles, and the political maneuvering within the Roman Senate.
Starring: Kirk Douglas, Laurence Olivier, Jean Simmons, Charles Laughton, Peter Ustinov, John Gavin, Nina Foch, John Ireland, Herbert Lom, John Dall;
Production year: 1960;
Genre: drama, adventure, war, biography, history;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 197 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,9;
More information about the film “Spartacus” on the website imdb.com
“Pompeii”, 2014
Director: Paul W.S. Anderson
Directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, this romantic historical disaster film involves the ancient Roman city of Pompeii in the days leading up to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. It features a young gladiator who must save his true love before the city is destroyed. Roman military aspects are part of the background setting and contribute to the film's depiction of the era.
Starring: Kit Harington, Emily Browning, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Kiefer Sutherland, Carrie-Anne Moss, Jared Harris, Jessica Lucas, Currie Graham, Joe Pingue, Sasha Roiz;
Production year: 2014;
Genre: action, drama, melodrama, adventure;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 105 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,5;
These films represent a glimpse into the diverse ways cinema has explored the Roman Army, reflecting varying periods, events, and interpretations of what remains one of history’s most powerful military forces.
In conclusion, films about the Roman Army have captivated audiences for decades, not just for their grand displays of epic battles and the glory of ancient Rome, but also for their exploration of themes like honor, power, and the human condition amidst warfare. These cinematic journeys transport us back to a time when the Roman legions were the epitome of military might and tactical brilliance, offering a blend of historical fact and creative storytelling that continues to resonate with viewers. From the gritty realism of battles depicted in “Gladiator” to the strategic genius showcased in “Julius Caesar,” these films succeed in bringing the valor, strategy, and legacy of the Roman Army to life. They remind us of the enduring influence of Rome on modern civilization and the timeless nature of the stories of those who fought within its ranks. As filmmakers continue to delve into this rich historical tapestry, the legacy of the Roman Army and its portrayal on screen will undoubtedly continue to evolve, inspiring future generations with tales of courage, conquest, and the complexities of human nature.
