The historical drama Rome, which showcases the height of the Roman Empire, has been hailed as “one of the greatest TV shows of all time”.
A collaboration between the BBC and HBO, Rome aired for two series from 2005 to 2007, earning widespread acclaim for its outstanding performances, historical accuracy, and gripping storytelling.
The series depicts the politically tumultuous and often brutally violent world of the Roman Empire during the first century BC, while also telling fictionalised stories of two real Roman soldiers – Lucius Vorenus, played by Kevin McKidd, and Titus Pullo, portrayed by Ray Stevenson.
The first series takes place during Julius Caesar’s reign, spanning from 49 BC, when the Roman Empire was embroiled in civil war, to his assassination in 44 BC.
The second series delves into the political manoeuvring following Caesar’s death.
Other notable actors featured in the show include Ciaran Hinds, who plays Julius Caesar, and Indira Varma, who portrays Niobe, wife of Lucius Vorenus – both of whom went on to secure major roles in Game of Thrones.
Tobias Menzies, from The Crown, also plays a dramatised version of Julius Caesar’s assassin Marcus Junius Brutus, whilst Better Call Saul’s Kerry Condon assumes the part of Octavia of the Julii, sister to Emperor Augustus.
The show garnered extensive critical praise during its initial airing, claiming multiple honours including Emmy Awards for visual effects, costume design, and hair styling.
Although the show’s makers originally envisioned five series – which would have ended with Christ’s emergence in the Holy Land – the programme was axed after merely two series owing to escalating production costs.
Both series maintain impressive 96 per cent approval scores on Rotten Tomatoes, with audiences praising the acting and historical accuracy alike.
One fan said: “One of the greatest TV shows of all time. Casting was extremely strong. Would recommend to anyone who loves drama and history.”
Another critic wrote: “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 admirer said: “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.”
However, others criticised the sheer volume of sexual content and brutality featured throughout the show, with one viewer saying: “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.”
Meanwhile, another wrote: “Too graphic. The violence and sex add nothing to the story.”
Nevertheless, negative reviews remain scarce, with one devoted fan saying: “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.”
Another fan added: “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 instalments of Rome can be watched on Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and YouTube.
