Rome: The Complete HBO Season 1 (6 Disc Box Set) [2005] (DVD)

Excellent - Entertaining - Factual - See it Excellent tv series - one is compelled to keep watching - just one more episode - historical, interesting, so watchable - someone said it was the Sopranos in Togas - just about sums it up - buy and enjoy

Impressive series steeped in historical fact What's to say that hasn't already been said?! Gorgeous production values, completely immersive camerawork, very clever integration of digitally produced shots (e.g. the Senate) with live shots, and probably best of all, believable acting. You won't find Rome's actors trying to do po-faced pastiche, that's for sure. I had serious trouble getting over the fact that Kevin McKidd is the same actor from Journeyman! Clearly, a lot of hard work has gone into replicating and recreating life as it was for the Romans. There will undoubtedly be a few squeamish viewers who will find the constant portrayals of sex and violence a bit much - but we must remember that the directors aren't leaving it in for the pure sake of it, this is how life really was for the Romans. One minor gripe is that after a while, the sets and locations don't seem to be varied enough. There are the usual scenes from the Forum, the houses of some key figures (mostly Atia and Servilia) and various fight scenes in open space, but I'd like to see a little more variation. However, the sheer depth of detail that is so obvious throughout more than makes up for this. In any case, as this is a TV show, it's entirely forgivable as the budget won't be as huge as a mega Hollywood production. A second minor gripe is the occasional slip in historical fact. Gladiator had its moments (why are the extras wearing jeans before the first battle scene?) and so too does Rome, e.g. Atia died in 43 BC but in the show is still alive in 31 BC. There are clearly a lot of talented crew at work here. Virtually every episode in the series has a different director, although the producers remain the same, which is really good to see because it means that HBO/BBC have let several artists fulfil their vision. Glancing over the cast again, Polly Walker could have been made for the role of Atia, whilst Kerry Condon is a beautiful if weak-willed Octavia. Finally, Lindsay Duncan also excels as Servilia, her every step exuding sheer menace and suppressed hate. In short, this is one of the best-produced TV series I have ever seen. There is no disputing the quality and credibility on show, and I have no hesitation in recommending it for those wet nights in. It's just a shame that the Beeb didn't see fit to make a third series, but you can't have everything!

Waste of time and money If someone wants to watch upper stiff lips 'Romans' therefore there is an item for you. Seriously, I am in dismay of this movie, season 1 landed in my rubbish bin, actors are not the best sort and to make movie 'attractive' director inserted sexual explicit scenes here and there no matter if they relate to the script or not. The waste of money to me. I do not recommend this entertainment to anyone.

cracking series! Rome,season 1,a collaboration between the BBC and Americas HBO,mainly for funding purposes,is a show that deals with the power struggle that took place in rome as it turned from a republic into an empire.The events are essentially based on real facts,and the list of character names were more or less all there,one must allow for some half truths but educational this is indeed. The show deals with the rise of julius caesar as he deals with betrayals and unrest to claim his rightful place on the throne,he has many against him and some who are very loyal and caught in the middle somewhat is the character of lucius vorenus,a brave soldier,who wants what is right for the country but isnt sure if caesars tactics are justified.His friend titus is perhaps the shows best character,a clumsy,foolish soldier with a sense of humour but also an excellent fighter. The show deals alot with the struggles of the rich and powerful,but also deals with the common mans view on what is going on and this adds to the shows dynamics. The cast are mainly english and some acting is average,but for the most part it is perfect,the violence isnt as forthcoming as some would have you believe but when it rears its head,rest assured it is extreme,the show deals with some taboos such as incest which isnt the easiest to watch but these were very different times. The show is excellent,but falls short of being a masterpiece,main,ly due to a few sluggish storylines,the time spent in Egypt makes for some dwindling killing of time in the show,it could have been wrapped up a little quicker i feel. There are plenty of story arcs and the attention to detail is very commendable,the sets and costumes are truly stunning and the show covers everything that it can from that era,it isnt perfect as i said but a deadly boxset all the same,the beauty of the actual boxset is perhaps the best i own,and i own alot,but will i be buying series two!yes i will.

Absolutely stunning!!!! There's been more than enough said on this item here already. I just wanted to add my bit more as a tribute, thanks.