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The allure of the Roman Empire has mesmerized filmmakers for generations.

From monumental structures to epic battles and iconic figures, the stories from this era have served as a robust foundation for countless cinematic masterpieces.

Here’s our list of some of the best movies about the Roman Empire.

Gladiator (2000)

Director: Ridley Scott

Starring: Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen, Oliver Reed, Derek Jacobi

Set in Ancient Rome, Gladiator unravels the tragic tale of Maximus Decimus Meridius, a Roman general who is betrayed by the prince Commodus, eventually being captured and forced to become a gladiator.

As he showcases his prowess in the Colosseum, Maximus becomes a symbol of hope and resistance against the corrupt tyranny of Commodus.

His quest for vengeance drives the plot, but underlying it all are themes of honor, loyalty, and the search for redemption.

Gladiator (2000)

$82.00

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Spartacus (1960)

Director: Stanley Kubrick

Starring: Kirk Douglas, Laurence Olivier, Jean Simmons, Charles Laughton, Peter Ustinov

“Spartacus” tells the powerful story of the Thracian gladiator who led a massive slave rebellion against the Roman Republic.

Born into slavery and trained as a gladiator, Spartacus rises against the oppressive Roman Empire, rallying thousands of slaves to his cause.

Spartacus [Blu-ray]

$18.94

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The Fall of the Roman Empire (1964)

Director: Anthony Mann

Starring: Sophia Loren, Stephen Boyd, Alec Guinness, James Mason, Christopher Plummer

This epic film examines the reasons behind the collapse of the Roman Empire.

While it might not be as popular as other entries on this list, its historical insights and compelling performances, especially from Alec Guinness and Sophia Loren, make it a must-watch for those interested in theatrical portrayals of the Roman Empire.

The Fall of the Roman Empire (1964) [ Blu-Ray, Reg.A/B/C Import - Sweden ]

$26.93

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Ben-Hur (1959)

Director: William Wyler

Starring: Charlton Heston, Jack Hawkins, Stephen Boyd

With an unmatched legacy, Ben-Hur tells the tale of a Jewish prince betrayed by his Roman friend, leading to heartbreaking consequences.

The film broke records with 11 Academy Awards, a testament to its craftsmanship and narrative power.

A particular highlight is the chariot race, a sequence that remains one of the most spectacular in film history.

Ben-Hur 50th Anniversary 2-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack

$12.98

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Titus (1999)

Director: Julie Taymor

Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Jessica Lange, Alan Cumming

Based on Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, “Titus Andronicus,” Julie Taymor’s Titus is a stylized and visually arresting adaptation that merges contemporary aesthetics with ancient Rome.

The story revolves around the Roman general Titus who returns victorious from war, only to become embroiled in a vengeful and violent cycle with Tamora, Queen of the Goths.

Titus [DVD]

$32.66

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